Round 1 (setup): Bonus action: Hexblade’s Curse on the boss → +6 damage to each damage roll (proficiency assumed to be 6 at level 20). Use Action to cast Eldritch Blast (4 beams).
Round 2 (setup): Bonus action: Hex (concentration) on the boss → +1d6 per hit. Use Action to cast Eldritch Blast (4 beams).
Round 3 (nova round):
Action: Scorching Ray cast at 8th-level → 9 rays (each 2d6 fire).
Advantage on all attack rolls (you stated you have advantage).
Crit range expanded to 19–20 by Hexblade’s Curse (so crit chance is higher with advantage).
Hex is concentration and must be maintained.
Enemy is not resistant/immune to the damage types used.
All spells succeed to cast and setup rounds complete (Hex active by round 3).
Expected damage (average) per round with the above assumptions
Eldritch Blast (4 beams, with advantage): expected ≈ 61.44 damage (per full EB cast).
That is: ~15.36 expected per beam × 4 beams = ~61.44.
Scorching Ray (9 rays at 8th level, with advantage): expected ≈ 153.09 damage (total for all 9 rays).
That is: ~17.01 expected per ray × 9 rays ≈ 153.09.
3-round total (Rounds 1 + 2 + 3)
Round 1: Eldritch Blast (action) ≈ 61.44
Round 2: Eldritch Blast (action) ≈ 61.44
Round 3: Scorching Ray (action) ≈ 153.09 + Eldritch Blast (quicken, bonus action) ≈ 61.44 → ~214.53 for the nova round
Total across the 3 rounds (expected average): ≈ 61.44 + 61.44 + 214.53 = ≈ 337.41 total expected damage
Quick raw totals rounded:
Round 1 ≈ 61
Round 2 ≈ 61
Round 3 (nova) ≈ 215
3-round total ≈ 337
That seems like an insane amount of damage. Also, with the 6 levels of paladin, I'll get the protection aura to add to my saves. So con saves is something like 13-14, cha saves 16, and wis saves around +11
Is this a viable level 20 build, or did I miss something, it seems extremely powerfull.
How do you have advantage? And why does the boss against a level 20 party only have 18 AC? Typically a level 20 party is up against a boss with AC of least 23, and the boss uses its legendary resistances to prevent the attackers having advantage against it.
337 damage over 3-round is not actually that insane for level 20.
Using 2014 rules, a straight classed Fighter with a Handcrossbow and SharpShooter + Crossbow Expert with Advantage on all their attacks has 0.75 chance to hit, and deals 1d6+15 damage per hit with a total of 23 attacks (4 attacks per Attack Action, 2x Action Surge, + 1 attack with each bonus action) for a total of: 326 damage.
A Barbarian-17 (Zealot)+Fighter (Champion)-3 with a Halberd with GWM + PAM with Advantage on all their attacks has 19% chance to crit (3d10), and 64% chance to hit and 11 attacks, each dealing 1d10+19 = 218 damage while also being effectively immortal.
A level 20 Monk (Mercy) using just their unarmed strikes with Adv over 3 rounds deals: 1d10+5 x 91% chance to hit x 4 attacks per round x 3 round + 1d10+5 (hands of harm) x 3 rounds + 10% chance to crit x 1d10 x 12 attacks = 146 damage over 3 rounds, with 12 chances to stun the enemy and permanently keeping the enemy poisoned.
A level 20 Rogue + Elven Accuracy + Booming Blade (from Arcane Trickster or Magic Initiate) has 15% chance to crit, and 97% chance to hit over 3 rounds deals: 0.97*3*(1d6+5+10d6(sneak attack + 3d8 BB + possibly another 4d8)) - one is actually a guaranteed hit too, = 174-192 damage.
A level 19 Paladin (Vengeance) + 1 Warlock Hexblade + Adv with a Greatsword and Smiting on every attack deals: Round 1: HBC then 2 attacks: 91% chance to hit + 19% chance to crit = (4d6+10+12+10d8)*0.91+0.19*(4d6+10d8) = 85 Round 2 : Hunter's Mark then 2 attacks : 91% chance to hit + 19% chance to crit = (4d6+10+12+10d8+2d6)*0.91+0.19*(4d6+10d8+2d6) = 93 Round 2 : 2 attacks : 91% chance to hit + 19% chance to crit = (4d6+10+12+9d8+2d6)*0.91+0.19*(4d6+9d8+2d6) = 88 Total = 266 damage
In otherwords, most DPR focused characters will be doing >200 damage over 3 rounds at level 20 if they have Adv on all their attacks.
How are you getting 61.44 points? You max 15 points per blast that hits You have to use concentration on the curse, the bonus is just 5 points for charisma. Hex would work with just a single hit, not all 4.
Scorching Ray (9 rays at 8th level, with advantage): expected ≈ 153.09 damage (total for all 9 rays).
That is: ~17.01 expected per ray × 9 rays ≈ 153.09.
At 12th level you get only 4 rays. You max at 12 points per ray (2d6 no bonus)
How are you getting 61.44 points? You max 15 points per blast that hits You have to use concentration on the curse, the bonus is just 5 points for charisma. Hex would work with just a single hit, not all 4.
Scorching Ray (9 rays at 8th level, with advantage): expected ≈ 153.09 damage (total for all 9 rays).
That is: ~17.01 expected per ray × 9 rays ≈ 153.09.
At 12th level you get only 4 rays. You max at 12 points per ray (2d6 no bonus)
The how and why on advantage on the boss is not the question, neither is the AC
Anyway, at level 20, according to DNDBeyond characterbuilder, Eldrich Blast is 4 blasts, assuming they hit, they count as 4 individual attacks at 1d10 +1d6(Hex) +6 (Hexblades Curse.) In 2014 only hex is concentration.
Same with scorcing ray, a level 2 spell, that gets +1 ray pr spellslot above 2. The character has 1 level 8 spellslot (rules of multiclassing) hence getting 6 Rays (3,4,5,6,7,8 = 6) Each Ray is an individual attack, so +1d6 pr ray from hex, and each ray deals individual damage, so +6 damage pr ray from Hexblades curse.
The character has 1 level 8 spellslot (rules of multiclassing) hence getting 6 Rays (3,4,5,6,7,8 = 6) Each Ray is an individual attack, so +1d6 pr ray from hex, and each ray deals individual damage, so +6 damage pr ray from Hexblades curse.
I still do not think this correct. You are a 12 level sorcerer so your highest spell is 6th level for sorcerer that is for sorcerer you don't get access to 8th level spell. The amount of rays are based on spell level not spell slots. Eldritch Blast is based on PC levels not spell slots or spell level so a warlock 1 ??19 gets 4 attacks.
Anyway, at level 20, according to DNDBeyond characterbuilder, Eldrich Blast is 4 blasts, assuming they hit, they count as 4 individual attacks at 1d10 +1d6(Hex) +6 (Hexblades Curse.)
I understand 4 attacks and 1d10, I have an issue with +1d6(Hex) +6 (Hexblades Curse.) The hex is just the once not every single it.
The how and why on advantage on the boss is not the question,...
It is my question, how do you achieve that?
Lastly, what is the source of the stats in chat gpt? How do you know it basing it on something that is actually true and not something a person originally posted and is 100% made up & wrong?
I still do not think this correct. You are a 12 level sorcerer so your highest spell is 6th level for sorcerer that is for sorcerer you don't get access to 8th level spell. The amount of rays are based on spell level not spell slots. Eldritch Blast is based on PC levels not spell slots or spell level so a warlock 1 ??19 gets 4 attacks.
It is strait from DNDBeyond character builder. Take a look for yourself https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/153201583/YNoOux Besides, the spell says, "When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 3rd level or higher, you create one additional ray for each slot level above 2nd." I have 1 level 8 spell SLOT, not an level 8 spell. That spell SLOT can be used to upcast known spells.
Recarding Hex, the spell says: Until the spell ends, you deal an extra 1d6 necrotic damage to the target whenever you hit it with an attack. Eldrich Blast is 4 attacks. It is the same as Hunter's Mark, and Extra attacks of Rangers and so on.
Regarding Hexblades Curse it says You gain a bonus to damage rolls against the cursed target. I could hit the target 3 out of 4 times, and roll damage 3 times. Notice the Plural of ROLLS
Regarding Advantage, there are so many way to get that. Greater invisibility, Vengeance Paladin Vow of Enmity, Fighting a monster that has only darkvision, and you cast darkness spell, or a special magic item, homebrew whatever. As said, the why advantage, is really not important.
All the stats for chatgpt is feeded to it by ME, taken from the character I have linked. I used chatgpt, because I didn't care to do the MATH myself.
It is a LITTLE off in the math, as the first round, with just Hexblades Curse would be (5,5+6) *4 = 46, then round 2 (5,5+3,5+6) *4 = 60, assuming no crits and all hits.
Hex applies to all 4 beams of EB, that's why it works so well on a Warlock. Each beam also should get Agonizing Blast.
This isn't OP, a straight L20 sorcerer would drop 3 rounds of insane spells if it wants to Nova. A L20 fighter would hit a ton of times, probably with a magic weapon.
I agree the numbers aren’t all that exciting. Solid, but not OP.
And realistically, something that takes two rounds to set up and really only goes off on round 3 on the same target won’t see a lot of use. Most enemies don’t live that long if the party is focusing fire on them.
Also, not sure what the point of the paladin is here. If it’s just for general use in other situations, then, sure, it might make sense. But if you’re just building a ranged magical blaster, it’s not really bringing anything to the party.
Also, not sure what the point of the paladin is here. If it’s just for general use in other situations, then, sure, it might make sense. But if you’re just building a ranged magical blaster, it’s not really bringing anything to the party.
You are probably right, it could make more damage, build differentliy.
But the Paladin brings, heavy armor and shield, so an AC of 20, bump it to 25 with shield spell. Then he has the possiblity to go melee if he wants, with some amazing smites. Quicken Booming Blade for a 3rd attack, and smites. Also there is always the amazing Aura of Protection, for the +5 bump to all saves to you and all nearby party members :D
If Hex and Hexbalde’s Curse triggered for “each scorching ray” that would be one thing (an overpowered thing at that!) Unfortunately though, this build to me (as cool as it seems) is a jack of all trades but master of none. Based in what you are trying to do, I honestly would drop the Paladin, start one level of sorcery, take the two levels of Hexblade and go sorcery after that. Remember that with Hexblade you get proficiency in medium armor and shields, so you aren’t as defenseless as a normal warlock, let alone sorcerer. The only thing you are really missing then is your aura, and you can take the Resilient feat to protect yourself at least from your weak points instead of it. There are also Eldritch Invocations that can be taken to help you in melee if that is a concern of yours.
Again, I highly recommend Sorcerer 18/Hexblade 2. I actually started out with a Divine Soul/Hexblade and really enjoyed it. Had an animated shield so i didn’t need warcaster and was able to use spiritual weapon along with hex and eldritch blast. (Sigh) good times. Goooood tiiiimes.
Since none of you think it is overly powerfull, and some even says I nerfed it myself with my paladin levels, I think I might try the character sometimes.
Ok so why don't you learn how to calculate this yourself since you seem to be interested in this, and we can check chatGPT's math:
With +5 CHA and +6 Proficiency bonus, you have +11 to attack or a 14/20 (70%) chance to hit with each attack. With advantage your chance to hit is 1- P(both dice result in misses) = 1-(0.3)^2 = 0.91 chance to hit. This is NOT the same as automatically hitting. Your chance at a critical is 2/20 or 10% chance to crit on one die, and thus 1-P(no crit on either die) = 1-0.9^2 = 19% chance to critically hit, with HBC and Advantage, without HBC you chance to crit is 5% (1/20) so with advantage is 9.75%.
For your Round 1: you have HBC + Eldritch Blast + Agonizing Blast. So it is 4 attacks, each dealing 1d10+5 (CHA) + 6 (Proficiency). The average roll of a d10 can be calculated as the (minimum roll + the maximum roll)/2 = 11/2 = 5.5, so the average damage of each attack if it hits is 5.5+11 = 16.5 damage. The extra damage from a Crit is 1d10, so the on average 5.5.
Avg(EB Damage | Hits but not Crit) = 16.5; Avg(EB bonus critical damage) = 5.5
The expected damage is the probability of hitting * damage on a hit + probability of critting * extra crit damage:
0.91*16.5 + 0.19*5.5 = 16.06 damage.
Which multiplied by 4 gives 64.24 total damage for all 4 rays (Not 61.44) in Round 1
For Round 3 with Hex + HBC + 8th level Scorching Ray our chance to hit & crit remain the same, but again our damage calculation is different. Now each attack deals 3d6 + 6 (PROF) damage, each d6 deals on average 3.5 damage so on average this will be 3*3.5+6 = 16.5 damage per ray. And the critical damage is 3d6 = 10.5:
Avg(ScorchRay Damage | Hits but not Crit) = 16.5; Avg(ScorchRay bonus critical damage) = 10.5
Again we multiply by the probability of Hitting / Critting:
0.91*16.5 + 0.19*10.5 = 17.01 damage per Scorching Ray in Round 3
Which multiplied by 9 rays gives a total damage of 153.09 damage
The EB deals the exact same damage as Round 2 = 79.64
So your grand total of damage across 3 round is : 64.24 + 79.64 + 153.09 + 79.64 = 376.61 damage.
None of these calculations are difficult to do and the theory behind it is covered in high school, the difference between doing it yourself and relying on ChatGPT was almost 40 damage. I hope this is a lesson for everyone on trusting ChatGPT ...
Since none of you think it is overly powerfull, and some even says I nerfed it myself with my paladin levels, I think I might try the character sometimes.
Thanks again for your inputs.
Feel free to do so, but IME Sorlocks are incredibly BORING characters. Mindlessly EB blasting is so dull!
Ok so why don't you learn how to calculate this yourself since you seem to be interested in this, and we can check chatGPT's math:
So your grand total of damage across 3 round is : 64.24 + 79.64 + 153.09 + 79.64 = 376.61 damage.
None of these calculations are difficult to do and the theory behind it is covered in high school, the difference between doing it yourself and relying on ChatGPT was almost 40 damage. I hope this is a lesson for everyone on trusting ChatGPT ...
Hey Hey, get off your high horse there man.
I never said anything about me not being able to do the math myself, I just said, I used chatgpt, because it was easier. Also, I never stated that I used Agonizing Blast, in fact in my calculations, there is never a mention of Agonizing Blast at all, and so, even though the numbers from chatgpt is not 100% correct, it is close enough.
Other than that, the question wasn't so much, is the math 100% correct and how do I do it myself. It was more, I had an idea, and right off the bat, for ME, it seemed like a hell of a lot of damage, compared to what other characters might be doing, like the Monk you mentions, it is almost double the damage of the monk. In fact, only the fighter comes close to the damage output of this 3 rounds nova burst. If we go for round 4, the character can burn a level 7 spell slot, and do almost like 200 damage again, for a total of over 500 points of damage in 4 rounds.
And as other pointed out, a full blown HexSorc could probably do more damage. The Paladin mix doesn't bring much to the table, other than Heavy armor and high saves.
And maybe, in a real boss fight, it wouldn't work at all, if the BBEG has fire or necrotic immunities then it doesn't work AT ALL. That is kinda where the melee paladin come in, 2 attacks with smites, and quicken spell booming blade, for 3rd attack with smite. Granted, it is not as much damage, but it is at least SOME
All in all, thanks for your input, even though I feel a bit offended by your tone, and your statements like: Ok so why don't you learn how to calculate this yourself And also: None of these calculations are difficult to do and the theory behind it is covered in high school And also: I hope this is a lesson for everyone on trusting ChatGPT
Ok so why don't you learn how to calculate this yourself since you seem to be interested in this, and we can check chatGPT's math:
So your grand total of damage across 3 round is : 64.24 + 79.64 + 153.09 + 79.64 = 376.61 damage.
None of these calculations are difficult to do and the theory behind it is covered in high school, the difference between doing it yourself and relying on ChatGPT was almost 40 damage. I hope this is a lesson for everyone on trusting ChatGPT ...
Hey Hey, get off your high horse there man.
I never said anything about me not being able to do the math myself, I just said, I used chatgpt, because it was easier. Also, I never stated that I used Agonizing Blast, in fact in my calculations, there is never a mention of Agonizing Blast at all, and so,
If you're trying to maximize your damage, why wouldn't you use it? In particular, when you're talking about a build being potentially overpowered, you should be using all the obvious damage bonuses to make your case..
(You should also have correct math, so as not to waste people's time.)
even though the numbers from chatgpt is not 100% correct, it is close enough.
This time. ChatGPT cannot be trusted to do math, nor to correctly execute the rules of D&D. If you're trying to use it to make character builds, you are doing yourself no favors.
This sort of thing is a spreadsheet job, and if you're doing it, you should use a spreadsheet. (And I say this as somebody who hates spreadsheets.)
The very first row of your table should be a giveaway about ChatGPT's failings, because the round 1 and 2 numbers are identical, and yet you''ve added in another damage effect on round 2.
Also... why aren't you casting scorching ray on round 2? The only thing you gain by waiting is more chances to blow a concentration save.
Another example of a simple build doing almost as much damage.
A level 20 Paladin in 3 rounds has 9 attacks if they are wielding 2 rapiers each is doing 2d8+5 damage. If all hit, they can use their 9 highest spell slots to divine smite. Asssuming no crits this deals another 40d8 damage (49d8 if the enemy is a fiend or undead).
This would average to 306 damage (346.5 against fiends / undead).
Of course hitting everytime or at least having advange is not a guarantee but it is the assumption you made. A vengence paladin as long as they know when they are less than an hour from combat with the enemy can force a wisdom save, which on a fail would mean all their attacks are at advantage. A Glory paldin can give up one attack by using their bonus action on round 1 to turn one miss per round into a hit.
Hi everyone,
I’ve put together a multiclass build that looks extremely strong on paper and I’m worried I’m overlooking a rules interaction. I’d love feedback.
This is based on 2014 rules
And i've used chatgpt for the calculations and formatting for this post, Sorry in advance :D
Build:
Paladin 6 / Hexblade Warlock 2 / Sorcerer 12 (total character level 20)
Charisma 20, no magic items assumed
Strategy in a boss fight (setup → nova):
Round 1 (setup): Bonus action: Hexblade’s Curse on the boss → +6 damage to each damage roll (proficiency assumed to be 6 at level 20). Use Action to cast Eldritch Blast (4 beams).
Round 2 (setup): Bonus action: Hex (concentration) on the boss → +1d6 per hit. Use Action to cast Eldritch Blast (4 beams).
Round 3 (nova round):
Action: Scorching Ray cast at 8th-level → 9 rays (each 2d6 fire).
Bonus action (Quicken Spell): Eldritch Blast → 4 beams.
Each Scorching Ray ray: 2d6 (base) + 1d6 (Hex) + 6 (Hexblade’s Curse).
Each Eldritch Blast beam: 1d10 (base) + 1d6 (Hex) + 6 (Hexblade’s Curse).
What I calculated (assumptions)
To-hit bonus: +11 (no magic weapon).
Target AC: 18.
Advantage on all attack rolls (you stated you have advantage).
Crit range expanded to 19–20 by Hexblade’s Curse (so crit chance is higher with advantage).
Hex is concentration and must be maintained.
Enemy is not resistant/immune to the damage types used.
All spells succeed to cast and setup rounds complete (Hex active by round 3).
Expected damage (average) per round with the above assumptions
Eldritch Blast (4 beams, with advantage): expected ≈ 61.44 damage (per full EB cast).
That is: ~15.36 expected per beam × 4 beams = ~61.44.
Scorching Ray (9 rays at 8th level, with advantage): expected ≈ 153.09 damage (total for all 9 rays).
That is: ~17.01 expected per ray × 9 rays ≈ 153.09.
3-round total (Rounds 1 + 2 + 3)
Round 1: Eldritch Blast (action) ≈ 61.44
Round 2: Eldritch Blast (action) ≈ 61.44
Round 3: Scorching Ray (action) ≈ 153.09 + Eldritch Blast (quicken, bonus action) ≈ 61.44 → ~214.53 for the nova round
Total across the 3 rounds (expected average):
≈ 61.44 + 61.44 + 214.53 = ≈ 337.41 total expected damage
Quick raw totals rounded:
Round 1 ≈ 61
Round 2 ≈ 61
Round 3 (nova) ≈ 215
3-round total ≈ 337
That seems like an insane amount of damage.
Also, with the 6 levels of paladin, I'll get the protection aura to add to my saves. So con saves is something like 13-14, cha saves 16, and wis saves around +11
Is this a viable level 20 build, or did I miss something, it seems extremely powerfull.
How do you have advantage? And why does the boss against a level 20 party only have 18 AC? Typically a level 20 party is up against a boss with AC of least 23, and the boss uses its legendary resistances to prevent the attackers having advantage against it.
337 damage over 3-round is not actually that insane for level 20.
Using 2014 rules, a straight classed Fighter with a Handcrossbow and SharpShooter + Crossbow Expert with Advantage on all their attacks has 0.75 chance to hit, and deals 1d6+15 damage per hit with a total of 23 attacks (4 attacks per Attack Action, 2x Action Surge, + 1 attack with each bonus action) for a total of: 326 damage.
A Barbarian-17 (Zealot)+Fighter (Champion)-3 with a Halberd with GWM + PAM with Advantage on all their attacks has 19% chance to crit (3d10), and 64% chance to hit and 11 attacks, each dealing 1d10+19 = 218 damage while also being effectively immortal.
A level 20 Monk (Mercy) using just their unarmed strikes with Adv over 3 rounds deals: 1d10+5 x 91% chance to hit x 4 attacks per round x 3 round + 1d10+5 (hands of harm) x 3 rounds + 10% chance to crit x 1d10 x 12 attacks = 146 damage over 3 rounds, with 12 chances to stun the enemy and permanently keeping the enemy poisoned.
A level 20 Rogue + Elven Accuracy + Booming Blade (from Arcane Trickster or Magic Initiate) has 15% chance to crit, and 97% chance to hit over 3 rounds deals: 0.97*3*(1d6+5+10d6(sneak attack + 3d8 BB + possibly another 4d8)) - one is actually a guaranteed hit too, = 174-192 damage.
A level 19 Paladin (Vengeance) + 1 Warlock Hexblade + Adv with a Greatsword and Smiting on every attack deals:
Round 1: HBC then 2 attacks: 91% chance to hit + 19% chance to crit = (4d6+10+12+10d8)*0.91+0.19*(4d6+10d8) = 85
Round 2 : Hunter's Mark then 2 attacks : 91% chance to hit + 19% chance to crit = (4d6+10+12+10d8+2d6)*0.91+0.19*(4d6+10d8+2d6) = 93
Round 2 : 2 attacks : 91% chance to hit + 19% chance to crit = (4d6+10+12+9d8+2d6)*0.91+0.19*(4d6+9d8+2d6) = 88
Total = 266 damage
In otherwords, most DPR focused characters will be doing >200 damage over 3 rounds at level 20 if they have Adv on all their attacks.
I only have the 2024 book, but I have a few questions,
Why do you have an advantage on all rolls?
How are you getting 61.44 points? You max 15 points per blast that hits You have to use concentration on the curse, the bonus is just 5 points for charisma. Hex would work with just a single hit, not all 4.
At 12th level you get only 4 rays. You max at 12 points per ray (2d6 no bonus)
The how and why on advantage on the boss is not the question, neither is the AC
Anyway, at level 20, according to DNDBeyond characterbuilder, Eldrich Blast is 4 blasts, assuming they hit, they count as 4 individual attacks at 1d10 +1d6(Hex) +6 (Hexblades Curse.)
In 2014 only hex is concentration.
Same with scorcing ray, a level 2 spell, that gets +1 ray pr spellslot above 2.
The character has 1 level 8 spellslot (rules of multiclassing) hence getting 6 Rays (3,4,5,6,7,8 = 6)
Each Ray is an individual attack, so +1d6 pr ray from hex, and each ray deals individual damage, so +6 damage pr ray from Hexblades curse.
The reason behind the advantage and AC doesn't matter, was mostly because I assumed all hit.
Chat GPT made the calculations at various AC's
It is still high i think, compared to what other classes do.
I still do not think this correct. You are a 12 level sorcerer so your highest spell is 6th level for sorcerer that is for sorcerer you don't get access to 8th level spell. The amount of rays are based on spell level not spell slots. Eldritch Blast is based on PC levels not spell slots or spell level so a warlock 1 ??19 gets 4 attacks.
I understand 4 attacks and 1d10, I have an issue with +1d6(Hex) +6 (Hexblades Curse.) The hex is just the once not every single it.
It is my question, how do you achieve that?
Lastly, what is the source of the stats in chat gpt? How do you know it basing it on something that is actually true and not something a person originally posted and is 100% made up & wrong?
It is strait from DNDBeyond character builder.
Take a look for yourself
https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/153201583/YNoOux
Besides, the spell says, "When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 3rd level or higher, you create one additional ray for each slot level above 2nd."
I have 1 level 8 spell SLOT, not an level 8 spell.
That spell SLOT can be used to upcast known spells.
Recarding Hex, the spell says:
Until the spell ends, you deal an extra 1d6 necrotic damage to the target whenever you hit it with an attack.
Eldrich Blast is 4 attacks.
It is the same as Hunter's Mark, and Extra attacks of Rangers and so on.
Regarding Hexblades Curse it says
You gain a bonus to damage rolls against the cursed target.
I could hit the target 3 out of 4 times, and roll damage 3 times. Notice the Plural of ROLLS
Regarding Advantage, there are so many way to get that. Greater invisibility, Vengeance Paladin Vow of Enmity, Fighting a monster that has only darkvision, and you cast darkness spell, or a special magic item, homebrew whatever.
As said, the why advantage, is really not important.
All the stats for chatgpt is feeded to it by ME, taken from the character I have linked.
I used chatgpt, because I didn't care to do the MATH myself.
It is a LITTLE off in the math, as the first round, with just Hexblades Curse would be (5,5+6) *4 = 46, then round 2 (5,5+3,5+6) *4 = 60, assuming no crits and all hits.
Hex applies to all 4 beams of EB, that's why it works so well on a Warlock. Each beam also should get Agonizing Blast.
This isn't OP, a straight L20 sorcerer would drop 3 rounds of insane spells if it wants to Nova. A L20 fighter would hit a ton of times, probably with a magic weapon.
I agree the numbers aren’t all that exciting. Solid, but not OP.
And realistically, something that takes two rounds to set up and really only goes off on round 3 on the same target won’t see a lot of use. Most enemies don’t live that long if the party is focusing fire on them.
Also, not sure what the point of the paladin is here. If it’s just for general use in other situations, then, sure, it might make sense. But if you’re just building a ranged magical blaster, it’s not really bringing anything to the party.
You are probably right, it could make more damage, build differentliy.
But the Paladin brings, heavy armor and shield, so an AC of 20, bump it to 25 with shield spell.
Then he has the possiblity to go melee if he wants, with some amazing smites. Quicken Booming Blade for a 3rd attack, and smites.
Also there is always the amazing Aura of Protection, for the +5 bump to all saves to you and all nearby party members :D
If Hex and Hexbalde’s Curse triggered for “each scorching ray” that would be one thing (an overpowered thing at that!) Unfortunately though, this build to me (as cool as it seems) is a jack of all trades but master of none. Based in what you are trying to do, I honestly would drop the Paladin, start one level of sorcery, take the two levels of Hexblade and go sorcery after that. Remember that with Hexblade you get proficiency in medium armor and shields, so you aren’t as defenseless as a normal warlock, let alone sorcerer. The only thing you are really missing then is your aura, and you can take the Resilient feat to protect yourself at least from your weak points instead of it. There are also Eldritch Invocations that can be taken to help you in melee if that is a concern of yours.
Again, I highly recommend Sorcerer 18/Hexblade 2. I actually started out with a Divine Soul/Hexblade and really enjoyed it. Had an animated shield so i didn’t need warcaster and was able to use spiritual weapon along with hex and eldritch blast. (Sigh) good times. Goooood tiiiimes.
Alright, thanks for all the inputs.
Since none of you think it is overly powerfull, and some even says I nerfed it myself with my paladin levels, I think I might try the character sometimes.
Thanks again for your inputs.
Ok so why don't you learn how to calculate this yourself since you seem to be interested in this, and we can check chatGPT's math:
With +5 CHA and +6 Proficiency bonus, you have +11 to attack or a 14/20 (70%) chance to hit with each attack. With advantage your chance to hit is 1- P(both dice result in misses) = 1-(0.3)^2 = 0.91 chance to hit. This is NOT the same as automatically hitting. Your chance at a critical is 2/20 or 10% chance to crit on one die, and thus 1-P(no crit on either die) = 1-0.9^2 = 19% chance to critically hit, with HBC and Advantage, without HBC you chance to crit is 5% (1/20) so with advantage is 9.75%.
P(Hit | Adv) = 0.91; P(Crit | HBC & Adv) = 0.19; P(Crit | Adv) = 0.0975
For your Round 1: you have HBC + Eldritch Blast + Agonizing Blast. So it is 4 attacks, each dealing 1d10+5 (CHA) + 6 (Proficiency). The average roll of a d10 can be calculated as the (minimum roll + the maximum roll)/2 = 11/2 = 5.5, so the average damage of each attack if it hits is 5.5+11 = 16.5 damage. The extra damage from a Crit is 1d10, so the on average 5.5.
Avg(EB Damage | Hits but not Crit) = 16.5; Avg(EB bonus critical damage) = 5.5
The expected damage is the probability of hitting * damage on a hit + probability of critting * extra crit damage:
0.91*16.5 + 0.19*5.5 = 16.06 damage.
Which multiplied by 4 gives 64.24 total damage for all 4 rays (Not 61.44) in Round 1
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For Round 2 with Hex we have to add 1d6 to the damage and the bonus critical damage. For 1d6 the average damage is (1+6)/2 = 3.5 so:
Avg(EB Damage | Hits but not Crit + Hex) = 16.5+3.5 = 20 damage; Avg(EB bonus critical damage) = 5.5+3.5 = 9 bonus damage
Again we multiply by the probability of Hitting / Critting:
0.91*20 + 0.19*9 = 19.91 damage per EB ray in Round 2
Which multiplied by 4 gives 79.64 total damage for all 4 rays (Not 61.44) in Round 2
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For Round 3 with Hex + HBC + 8th level Scorching Ray our chance to hit & crit remain the same, but again our damage calculation is different. Now each attack deals 3d6 + 6 (PROF) damage, each d6 deals on average 3.5 damage so on average this will be 3*3.5+6 = 16.5 damage per ray. And the critical damage is 3d6 = 10.5:
Avg(ScorchRay Damage | Hits but not Crit) = 16.5; Avg(ScorchRay bonus critical damage) = 10.5
Again we multiply by the probability of Hitting / Critting:
0.91*16.5 + 0.19*10.5 = 17.01 damage per Scorching Ray in Round 3
Which multiplied by 9 rays gives a total damage of 153.09 damage
The EB deals the exact same damage as Round 2 = 79.64
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So your grand total of damage across 3 round is : 64.24 + 79.64 + 153.09 + 79.64 = 376.61 damage.
None of these calculations are difficult to do and the theory behind it is covered in high school, the difference between doing it yourself and relying on ChatGPT was almost 40 damage. I hope this is a lesson for everyone on trusting ChatGPT ...
Feel free to do so, but IME Sorlocks are incredibly BORING characters. Mindlessly EB blasting is so dull!
Hey Hey, get off your high horse there man.
I never said anything about me not being able to do the math myself, I just said, I used chatgpt, because it was easier.
Also, I never stated that I used Agonizing Blast, in fact in my calculations, there is never a mention of Agonizing Blast at all, and so, even though the numbers from chatgpt is not 100% correct, it is close enough.
Other than that, the question wasn't so much, is the math 100% correct and how do I do it myself.
It was more, I had an idea, and right off the bat, for ME, it seemed like a hell of a lot of damage, compared to what other characters might be doing, like the Monk you mentions, it is almost double the damage of the monk.
In fact, only the fighter comes close to the damage output of this 3 rounds nova burst.
If we go for round 4, the character can burn a level 7 spell slot, and do almost like 200 damage again, for a total of over 500 points of damage in 4 rounds.
And as other pointed out, a full blown HexSorc could probably do more damage.
The Paladin mix doesn't bring much to the table, other than Heavy armor and high saves.
And maybe, in a real boss fight, it wouldn't work at all, if the BBEG has fire or necrotic immunities then it doesn't work AT ALL.
That is kinda where the melee paladin come in, 2 attacks with smites, and quicken spell booming blade, for 3rd attack with smite.
Granted, it is not as much damage, but it is at least SOME
All in all, thanks for your input, even though I feel a bit offended by your tone, and your statements like:
Ok so why don't you learn how to calculate this yourself
And also:
None of these calculations are difficult to do and the theory behind it is covered in high school
And also:
I hope this is a lesson for everyone on trusting ChatGPT
That comes off as terribly condescending, to me.
If you're trying to maximize your damage, why wouldn't you use it? In particular, when you're talking about a build being potentially overpowered, you should be using all the obvious damage bonuses to make your case..
(You should also have correct math, so as not to waste people's time.)
This time. ChatGPT cannot be trusted to do math, nor to correctly execute the rules of D&D. If you're trying to use it to make character builds, you are doing yourself no favors.
This sort of thing is a spreadsheet job, and if you're doing it, you should use a spreadsheet. (And I say this as somebody who hates spreadsheets.)
The very first row of your table should be a giveaway about ChatGPT's failings, because the round 1 and 2 numbers are identical, and yet you''ve added in another damage effect on round 2.
Also... why aren't you casting scorching ray on round 2? The only thing you gain by waiting is more chances to blow a concentration save.
Another example of a simple build doing almost as much damage.
A level 20 Paladin in 3 rounds has 9 attacks if they are wielding 2 rapiers each is doing 2d8+5 damage. If all hit, they can use their 9 highest spell slots to divine smite. Asssuming no crits this deals another 40d8 damage (49d8 if the enemy is a fiend or undead).
This would average to 306 damage (346.5 against fiends / undead).
Of course hitting everytime or at least having advange is not a guarantee but it is the assumption you made. A vengence paladin as long as they know when they are less than an hour from combat with the enemy can force a wisdom save, which on a fail would mean all their attacks are at advantage. A Glory paldin can give up one attack by using their bonus action on round 1 to turn one miss per round into a hit.
I didn’t realize you could dual wield two rapiers. What are the requirements? Are there pros and cons versus the shortsword/scimitar alternative?
In '14 you could with the right feats. In '24, you can't.
Oh yeah. I forgot this was a 14’ build. Thank you!