Hexblades: Two-handed weapon powers

Today's post features the two-handed weapon power set for the upcoming Hexblade class. To discuss this post with the community, please join us on the on the #hexblade Discord channel.

Design philosophy

Put simply, pure damage is the focus of the two-handed weapon power set. The set has strong single target output as well as large-radius area effect damage. The one-handed set will serve you well when survivability and small-group tactics are key, but there's no substitute for a two-handed weapon when its time to unleash hell on your enemies.

Hex power

Hex power is a new combat mechanic built for Hexblades. Here's how it works:

  • As you use two-handed weapon attacks, your hex power increases. That hex power can then be expended to create more powerful versions of some of your powers.

  • Three of the five two-handed powers will build a single stack of hex power when used.

  • The other two powers can consume those stacks of hex power to modify the effects of the power. For example, Vortex of Fire is normally a powerful single target fire attack. But if you have three stacks of hex power built up, the vortex will expand and sweep through the area for area effect damage.

This system is brand new and fairly simple to use. If you want to take advantage of the hex power effects, all you have to do is find the right rotation for your powers that builds and expends that hex power as desired.

The powers

  • Soulcutter: Channel eldritch energies through your weapon for a powerful attack. Builds 1 stack of hex power. Recharges in 3 rounds.

  • Hellstrike: Flames summoned directly from the Nine Hells engulf your weapon, knocking your target to the ground upon a successful hit. Builds 1 stack of hex power. Recharges in 3 rounds.

  • Black Frost: Your weapon is encased with eldritch frost, which weakens your target. Builds 1 stack of hex power. Recharges in 3 rounds.

  • Vortex of Fire: A raging column of flame erupts from your weapon as you strike your enemy. If you have three stacks of hex power built up, the vortex sweeps through the area, hitting multiple targets. Recharges in 7 rounds.

  • Void Star: You summon the dying light of a dead star to envelop your weapon, dealing extreme damage to your target. If you have three stacks of hex power built up, this attack will cause an explosion of the dark light, dealing damage across the area and transferring the targets' life force back to you. Recharges in 7 rounds.

What's next?

Next up, we'll go over the spell list for Hexblades. Please feel free to ask questions or leave feedback in the #hexblade Discord channel.

Shevarash

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