How does extra attack work in D&D?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The Extra Attack feature in D&D allows characters to make multiple attacks when they take the Attack action on their turn, with the number of attacks increasing as they gain levels in their class. This feature is a key component of martial classes, such as Fighters and Paladins, and can significantly impact a character’s combat effectiveness.
Understanding Extra Attack
The Extra Attack feature is straightforward: when a character takes the Attack action, they can make multiple attacks, with the number of attacks depending on their level in their class. This feature is not limited to melee attacks, and can also be used with ranged attacks, such as those made with a longbow.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Extra Attack let you cast 2 spells?
No, the Extra Attack feature does not allow characters to cast extra spells. This feature specifically relies on the Attack action, not the Cast a Spell action or any other action.
2. Does Extra Attack have to target the same creature?
No, the Extra Attack feature does not require characters to target the same creature with each attack. Characters can attack one creature, move to another and attack that one, and so on, as long as they have enough speed and attacks.
3. Does Extra Attack work with offhand?
Yes, the Extra Attack feature works with offhand attacks. As long as one of the attacks made was with a light melee weapon held in one hand, characters can use a bonus action to attack with a light melee weapon in the other hand.
4. Does Extra Attack apply to two-weapon fighting?
Yes, the Extra Attack feature applies to two-weapon fighting. However, the Two-Weapon Fighting Style is poorly worded and should have said that characters can add their ability modifier to the damage of the off-hand attack.
5. Does Extra Attack use the same weapon?
No, the Extra Attack feature does not require characters to use the same weapon for each attack. Characters can make multiple attacks with different weapons, including unarmed strikes.
6. Can you move in between extra attacks?
Yes, characters can move in between extra attacks. If a character takes an action that includes more than one weapon attack, they can break up their movement even further by moving between those attacks.
7. Does Extra Attack work with Cantrips?
No, the Extra Attack feature does not work with cantrips in the same way that it works with attacks. However, some features, such as the New Bladesinger class’s extra attack feature, allow characters to cast a cantrip as one of their extra attacks.
8. Can you grapple twice with Extra Attack?
Yes, characters can attempt to grapple multiple times in a turn if they have Extra Attacks. Each grapple attempt uses up only one attack, not a whole Attack Action.
9. Can you sneak attack twice with Extra Attack?
No, characters can only apply sneak attack damage once per turn, regardless of how many attacks they make.
10. Does Extra Attack apply to haste?
Yes, the Extra Attack feature applies to haste. The only limitation haste applies is to the specific action it gives, and characters can use their other actions to make attacks and use Extra Attack.
11. Can you use Multiattack and Extra Attack?
No, characters cannot use Multiattack and Extra Attack at the same time. If a character takes the Multiattack action, they do not get a second attack from Extra Attack, because only the Attack action triggers Extra Attack‘s benefits.
12. Does dual wielding give two attacks?
No, dual wielding does not give characters two attacks. Two-weapon fighting has no bearing on how many attacks characters make, and Dual Wielder only allows characters to make an extra bonus action attack.
13. What is the difference between Eldritch Blast and Extra Attack?
Eldritch Blast uses the Cast a Spell action, while Extra Attack uses the Attack action. Characters with Extra Attack do not gain the ability to cast more spells, including Eldritch Blast.
14. Can Eldritch Blast be used with Extra Attack?
No, Eldritch Blast cannot be used with Extra Attack. However, characters can use Action Surge to gain a second action and cast Eldritch Blast again.
15. Can you cast 2 Eldritch Blast twice?
Yes, characters can cast Eldritch Blast twice in a round using Action Surge. Since Eldritch Blast is a cantrip, characters can cast it multiple times, and with Action Surge, they can cast it twice in a round and make multiple attacks.