Are you ready to unleash the full potential of your rogue with the Arcane Trickster 5e subclass? Dive into this guide where we’ll explore everything from hit points and equipment to spellcasting and multiclassing.
We’ll also uncover common tactics, strategies, and ways to defend against this versatile build. Whether you’re new to Dungeons & Dragons or looking to refine your character, this article will provide the insight you need to navigate the world of the Arcane Trickster 5e. Let’s get started!
Understanding Arcane Trickster in 5e
The Arcane Trickster in 5e is a unique blend of rogue and wizard, combining stealth with magical prowess. This subclass enables rogues to learn spells from the wizard list, adding a magical twist to their cunning tactics.
They specialize in spells that deceive and protect, making them versatile in both combat and exploration. Mastering this subclass requires a good balance between stealth and spellcasting abilities.
Hit Points
Hit points are a crucial aspect of any character, and for the Arcane Trickster 5e, it’s no different. With a hit die of 1d8 per rogue level, they have moderate durability.
- Hit Dice: 1d8 per rogue level
- Hit Points at 1st Level: 8 + your Constitution modifier
- Hit Points at Higher Levels: 1d8 (or 5) + your Constitution modifier per rogue level after 1st
This makes them tougher than a wizard but not as durable as a fighter.
Equipment
The equipment of an Arcane Trickster 5e is essential for both their rogue and magical abilities. They start with a mix of standard rogue gear and a few magical tools.
- Armor: Light armor
- Weapons: Simple weapons, hand crossbows, longswords, rapiers, shortswords
- Tools: Thieves’ tools
- Spellcasting Focus: An arcane focus or a component pouch
This setup allows them to be prepared for various situations, from lock-picking to spellcasting.
Proficiencies
Proficiencies define what a character can do well, and for the Arcane Trickster 5e, these are a blend of rogue skills and magical knowledge.
- Armor: Light armor
- Weapons: Simple weapons, hand crossbows, longswords, rapiers, shortswords
- Tools: Thieves’ tools
- Saving Throws: Dexterity, Intelligence
- Skills: Choose four from Acrobatics, Athletics, Deception, Insight, Intimidation, Investigation, Perception, Performance, Persuasion, Sleight of Hand, Stealth
These proficiencies ensure that the Arcane Trickster 5e is both nimble and knowledgeable.
Also Read: Blinded 5e: A Guide to Game-Changing Impairment
Arcane trick spellcasting :
Spellcasting for rogues brings a unique blend of stealth and magic, enhancing their already versatile skill set. Many find that this combination allows for creative problem-solving in and out of combat.
Let’s explore how the integration of arcane abilities can make a rogue even more formidable.
| Rogue Level | Cantrips Known | Spells Known | 1st Level Slots | 2nd Level Slots | 3rd Level Slots | 4th Level Slots |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3rd | 3 | 3 | 2 | – | – | – |
| 4th | 3 | 4 | 3 | – | – | – |
| 5th | 3 | 4 | 3 | – | – | – |
| 6th | 3 | 4 | 3 | – | – | – |
| 7th | 3 | 5 | 4 | 2 | – | – |
| 8th | 3 | 6 | 4 | 2 | – | – |
| 9th | 3 | 6 | 4 | 2 | – | – |
| 10th | 4 | 7 | 4 | 3 | – | – |
| 11th | 4 | 8 | 4 | 3 | – | – |
| 12th | 4 | 8 | 4 | 3 | – | – |
| 13th | 4 | 9 | 4 | 3 | 2 | – |
| 14th | 4 | 10 | 4 | 3 | 2 | – |
| 15th | 4 | 10 | 4 | 3 | 2 | – |
| 16th | 4 | 11 | 4 | 3 | 3 | – |
| 17th | 4 | 11 | 4 | 3 | 3 | – |
| 18th | 4 | 11 | 4 | 3 | 3 | – |
| 19th | 4 | 12 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 1 |
| 20th | 4 | 13 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 1 |
Spellcasting
When diving into the world of Arcane Trickster 5e, one of the most captivating features is their spellcasting ability.
This subclass of Rogue introduces a blend of stealth and magic, allowing for a unique and powerful playstyle. As an Arcane Trickster 5e, you gain access to a limited number of spells from the Wizard spell list, focusing mainly on enchantment and illusion spells.
This combination enhances your rogue skills, providing both offensive and defensive capabilities. Understanding how to manage your spells and when to use them is crucial for maximizing your effectiveness in various encounters.
Cantrips
Starting at the third level, you learn three cantrips from the Wizard spell list. These are simple spells you can cast at will and do not consume any spell slots.
- Mage Hand is a mandatory cantrip for Arcane Tricksters, offering a magical extension of your thievery skills.
- The other two cantrips can be chosen based on your preference and playstyle.
- These cantrips provide utility and support to your rogue abilities, making you versatile in and out of combat.
Spell Slots
Arcane Tricksters have a limited number of spell slots, which determine how many spells you can cast before needing to rest.
- At third level, you start with two first-level spell slots.
- As you level up, the number of spell slots and their levels increase.
- Proper management of these spell slots is essential to ensure you always have the right spell available when needed.
- Balancing your use of spell slots between combat and utility spells can greatly impact your effectiveness.
Spells Known of 1st Level and Higher
As you advance, you learn more spells from the Wizard spell list, focusing on enchantment and illusion.
- At third level, you know three first-level spells.
- You gain additional spells known as you level up, but at a slower pace than full casters.
- You may choose to learn higher-level spells as you gain access to higher-level spell slots.
- The spells you select should complement your rogue abilities, enhancing your overall strategy.
Spellcasting Ability
Your spellcasting ability for Arcane Trickster 5e spells is Intelligence.
- This means your Intelligence modifier affects your spell attack rolls and saving throw DCs.
- It is important to have a high Intelligence score to maximize the effectiveness of your spells.
- Your spell save DC is calculated as 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Intelligence modifier.
- Your spell attack modifier is your proficiency bonus + your Intelligence modifier.
Spell Thief
At 17th level, you gain the Spell Thief ability, which allows you to steal the knowledge of a spell cast by another spellcaster.
- When you see a creature casting a spell, you can use your reaction to force that creature to make a saving throw.
- On a failure, you negate the spell’s effect and can cast that spell yourself once within the next 8 hours.
- This ability provides a powerful tool for turning the tide of battle in your favor.
- It also adds a layer of strategy, as you can prepare to counter powerful spells used by opponents.
Also Read: How to Craft Magic Items in DND 5E: Ultimate Guide & Tips
Multiclassing
Multiclassing in Dungeons and Dragons 5E opens up a world of creative possibilities for character development. By combining different class features, you can tailor a unique set of abilities that suit your play style and enhance your role within the party.
This guide will help you understand how to effectively blend the Arcane Trickster’s talents with those of other classes.
Example Build Components
- Arcane Trickster 5e /Wizard: Enhances spellcasting abilities.
- Arcane Trickster 5e /Bard: Combines combat skills with support spells.
- Arcane Trickster 5e /Fighter: Adds durability and combat prowess.
- Arcane Trickster 5e /Warlock: Offers unique spell options and abilities.
Remember to balance your character’s attributes when multiclassing to keep them effective in both roles.
Understanding Common Tactics and Strategies
When delving into the gameplay of the Arcane Trickster in 5e, it’s essential to grasp the common tactics and strategies that make this subclass shine.
Leveraging both stealth and spellcasting abilities allows for a versatile approach to a wide range of challenges. Mastery of these techniques can significantly enhance your gameplay experience, making each encounter uniquely engaging.
Defending Against the Arcane Trickster 5e Combo
Countering an Arcane Trickster’s combo requires strategic planning and awareness. One effective method is to keep a close watch on their Mage Hand usage, as it can be a telltale sign of an impending trick.
Spells like Detect Magic can reveal hidden threats, making it harder for the Trickster to remain unseen. Disrupting their concentration with spells or abilities can prevent them from maintaining powerful effects like Invisibility.
Lastly, employing high-perception characters can help spot and thwart their stealthy maneuvers, ensuring they don’t get the drop on you.
Also Read: Blinded 5e: A Guide to Game-Changing Impairment
Conclusion
With its unique blend of spellcasting and rogue abilities, this subclass offers a captivating gameplay style. From managing spell slots to leveraging unique proficiencies, the Arcane Trickster 5e provides endless strategic possibilities.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, mastering these elements will undoubtedly add depth to your adventures.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t miss out on our other in-depth articles on character classes and strategies. Dive in and elevate your gaming experience!
