Can a Warlock Take Eldritch Adept? A Deep Dive into D&D Feats

Yes, a Warlock can absolutely take the Eldritch Adept feat in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e). The feat is specifically designed to grant access to Eldritch Invocations, which are normally exclusive to the Warlock class. However, there are nuances to consider regarding prerequisites and the overall benefit of the feat for a Warlock. Let’s break down the details and explore common questions surrounding this intriguing combination.

Understanding the Eldritch Adept Feat

The Eldritch Adept feat, introduced in Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything, allows characters who possess either the Spellcasting or Pact Magic feature to learn one Eldritch Invocation. For non-Warlocks, this is a fantastic way to gain a taste of the Warlock’s unique flavor and power. But what about Warlocks themselves? How does the feat benefit a class that already has access to invocations?

For Warlocks, the Eldritch Adept feat provides an additional invocation. The key here is understanding the limitations. You can select invocations with no level requirements at your current level or you can select one that has a prerequisite if you meet that prerequisite. This means a Warlock can potentially access a wider range of invocations earlier than they normally would, or even pick up an invocation they might not otherwise qualify for. This can lead to interesting character builds and unique tactical options.

How to Make the Most of Eldritch Adept as a Warlock

To maximize the benefits of the Eldritch Adept feat as a Warlock, consider the following:

• Invocation Choice: Carefully evaluate which invocation offers the most significant advantage. Look for invocations that synergize well with your Warlock’s subclass and playstyle.
• Prerequisites: If you aim for an invocation with prerequisites, ensure your Warlock meets those requirements. Some invocations require a specific Pact Boon or a certain Warlock level.
• Early Access: The feat can be particularly valuable for gaining access to powerful invocations before reaching the level typically required.
• Build Synergy: Think about how the added invocation complements your existing spells, abilities, and overall character concept.
• Strategic Planning: Use the extra invocation strategically to address weaknesses in your Warlock’s toolkit or enhance their strengths.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While the Eldritch Adept feat can be beneficial for Warlocks, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls:

• Redundancy: Avoid selecting an invocation that duplicates an existing ability or provides minimal added value.
• Ignoring Prerequisites: Always double-check and meet the prerequisites of the desired invocation.
• Overlooking Alternatives: Consider whether another feat might offer a more substantial benefit for your Warlock build.
• Lack of Synergy: Ensure the chosen invocation works well with your Warlock’s overall strategy and playstyle.
• Suboptimal Choices: Some invocations are simply more powerful and versatile than others. Research and choose wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the Eldritch Adept feat and its interaction with the Warlock class:

1. Can I take Eldritch Adept without being a Warlock?

Yes, you can take Eldritch Adept if you possess either the Spellcasting or Pact Magic feature, regardless of your class. However, any invocations with pre-requisites, for example agonizing blast, can only be chosen by warlocks with the feat.

2. Can any Warlock use Eldritch Blast?

Yes, Eldritch Blast is a signature cantrip for the Warlock class. It’s a fundamental part of their arsenal and is available to all Warlocks.

3. Can I take Eldritch Adept more than once?

No, you cannot take the Eldritch Adept feat more than once. The Player’s Handbook explicitly states that you can only take a feat once unless the feat description says otherwise.

4. Can you use Eldritch Adept to get Agonizing Blast as a non-Warlock?

No, you cannot select Agonizing Blast as a non-Warlock character using the Eldritch Adept feat. Even if you gain Eldritch Blast through another means (e.g., the Spell Sniper feat), Agonizing Blast requires you to be a Warlock.

5. What are the best Warlock Invocations to get with the Eldritch Adept Feat?

This depends on your build and preferences, but popular choices include:

• Agonizing Blast (if you don’t already have it)
• Mask of Many Faces (for at-will Disguise Self)
• Devil’s Sight (for seeing in magical darkness)
• Armor of Shadows (for at-will Mage Armor)

6. Can a Warlock use Eldritch Blast as a bonus action?

Only if they have a feature that allows them to do so. A common method is to multiclass into Sorcerer and use the Quicken Spell Metamagic to cast Eldritch Blast as a bonus action, expending Sorcery Points.

7. How many times can a Warlock use Eldritch Blast per turn?

A Warlock can typically cast Eldritch Blast once per turn as their action. However, as mentioned above, they can cast it as a bonus action with quickened spell metamagic.

8. Can a Monk take Eldritch Adept?

No, a Monk cannot take the Eldritch Adept feat unless they multiclass into a class with the Spellcasting or Pact Magic feature. Monks do not natively possess either feature.

9. Can an Eldritch Knight cast spells and Eldritch Blast in the same turn?

An Eldritch Knight can cast multiple spells in a turn as long as they adhere to the bonus action spellcasting rule. If they cast a spell as a bonus action, any other spells they cast must be cantrips with a casting time of 1 action. Thus, yes they can cast Eldritch Blast if they took the Eldritch Adept feat.

10. Can you cast Eldritch Blast twice with Quickened Spell?

Yes, you can cast Eldritch Blast twice in one turn if you multiclass into sorcerer and use Quickened Spell to cast it as a bonus action.

11. Can a Hexblade use Eldritch Blast?

Yes, a Hexblade Warlock can absolutely use Eldritch Blast. The Hexblade subclass doesn’t restrict spellcasting or force you into melee combat.

12. Why is Eldritch Blast considered such a good cantrip?

Eldritch Blast is excellent due to its range, damage type, and scalability. Furthermore, Eldritch Invocations can enhance it, making it even more potent and customizable.

13. Can a Warlock move between multiple beams of Eldritch Blast?

Yes, you can break up your movement between the beams of Eldritch Blast. For example, if you have two beams and a speed of 30 feet, you can move 10 feet, fire one beam, move another 10 feet, fire the second beam, and then move the remaining 10 feet.

14. Are Warlock spells always cast at their maximum level?

Yes, Warlock spells are always cast at the highest spell slot level available to the Warlock.

15. Can a Warlock cast Hex and Eldritch Blast on the same turn?

A Warlock can cast Hex and Eldritch Blast on the same turn if they cast Hex as a bonus action (for instance, through the War Caster feat or via a metamagic ability when multiclassing into sorcerer).

Conclusion

The Eldritch Adept feat presents a unique opportunity for Warlocks to expand their repertoire of Eldritch Invocations. By carefully selecting an invocation that complements their build and addresses specific needs, Warlocks can enhance their versatility and effectiveness in combat and exploration. While not every Warlock will find the feat essential, it can be a valuable addition for those seeking to customize their character further. This strategic depth is just one of the many reasons why D&D continues to captivate players and foster engaging storytelling. To learn more about the intersection of gaming and education, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.