How Many Spells Can a Rogue Arcane Trickster Have?
The Arcane Trickster, a captivating rogue subclass in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e), blends the cunning of a rogue with the arcane arts of a wizard. But how many spells can these sneaky spellcasters actually wield? The answer, while straightforward, requires a bit of unpacking: Arcane Tricksters have a limited number of spell slots and known spells, progressing up to 4th-level spells and a maximum of 11 spell slots by 20th level. This is far fewer than a full spellcaster like a Wizard, but it’s a powerful augmentation to the rogue’s capabilities. The spell progression is tied to their Rogue level, and their spell selection is restricted primarily to Enchantment and Illusion spells from the Wizard spell list. They are considered a half-caster, scaling slower than full casters.
Understanding Arcane Trickster Spellcasting
Unlike wizards who learn spells from a spellbook, Arcane Tricksters have a fixed list of spells known. They do not prepare spells daily. Once they learn a spell, they have it available to cast if they have an appropriate spell slot. This means less flexibility than a Wizard but also less overhead in preparing for a day’s adventure.
The Limitations of Arcane Trickster Spells
The real limit isn’t just the number of spell slots or spells known; it’s also the school of magic. Arcane Tricksters are heavily restricted in their spell choices.
- Initial Spell Selection: Upon choosing the Arcane Trickster subclass at level 3, you learn three 1st-level spells from the wizard spell list, with at least two having to be from the Enchantment or Illusion schools.
- Leveled Spells: Any additional spells learned must be from the Enchantment or Illusion schools, although they do gain access to an exception at higher levels.
- Cantrips: Arcane Tricksters also learn cantrips from the Wizard spell list, gaining more as they progress. However, it’s important to note that cantrips cannot be swapped out, unlike leveled spells.
- Sneak Attack Restriction: A crucial point is that Sneak Attack can only be applied to Dexterity-based weapon attacks; it does not apply to spell attacks, so using spells like Firebolt won’t allow for a sneak attack bonus.
Spell Progression and Spell Slots
The spell progression for an Arcane Trickster is tied to the character’s Rogue level. They gain spell slots and access to higher-level spells at specific rogue levels:
- Rogue Level 3: Two 1st-level spell slots. They know 3 spells total from the Wizard list, 2 of which must be enchantment or illusion. They gain 3 cantrips.
- Rogue Level 7: Gain two 2nd-level spell slots, allowing them to learn spells of the 1st or 2nd level. They can also replace one of their known spells with another from the enchantment or illusion schools. They also gain a 4th cantrip.
- Rogue Level 13: Gain one 3rd-level spell slot, allowing them to learn spells of the 1st, 2nd or 3rd level. You also gain the ability to learn one spell of any school. They gain a 5th cantrip.
- Rogue Level 19: Gain one 4th-level spell slot, allowing them to learn spells of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th level.
- Maximum: At 20th level, an Arcane Trickster has a maximum of 11 spell slots; four 1st-level, three 2nd-level, three 3rd-level, and one 4th-level.
Best Spells for an Arcane Trickster
While the number of spells is limited, their impact can be significant. Greater Invisibility (Illusion), for example, is a prime choice, allowing the rogue to remain unseen even when attacking and casting spells. Other great options include Booming Blade (for melee rogues) and spells like Find Familiar, which provide utility and tactical advantage.
Maximizing Spell Efficiency
Understanding the restrictions allows Arcane Tricksters to carefully select spells. Since Sneak Attack works with weapon attacks, it’s crucial to choose spells that enhance their martial abilities, such as Booming Blade. In addition, spells that aid in stealth, deception, and control are perfect for this subclass’s core concepts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arcane Trickster Spells
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a deeper understanding of Arcane Trickster spellcasting:
1. Do Arcane Tricksters get spell slots?
Yes, Arcane Tricksters gain spell slots at specific rogue levels. You start with two 1st-level spell slots at Rogue level 3 and gain more as you level up, reaching a maximum of 11 spell slots at level 20.
2. What spells can Arcane Tricksters cast?
Arcane Tricksters can cast spells from the Wizard spell list, with the primary restriction being that they must be from the Enchantment and Illusion schools. There are exceptions, most notably a single spell of any school at level 13.
3. Can an Arcane Trickster learn Fireball?
Yes, an Arcane Trickster can learn Fireball, but not until they reach Rogue level 13 and gain the ability to choose one spell of any school. This is much later than when a wizard learns it (level 5).
4. Can Arcane Tricksters change cantrips?
No, Arcane Tricksters cannot change their selected cantrips. Once chosen, they are permanent, so choose carefully.
5. Can Arcane Tricksters swap spells?
Yes, Arcane Tricksters can swap one spell they know when they gain a level in the rogue class. The new spell must also adhere to their normal restrictions.
6. What is the best 1st level spell for an Arcane Trickster?
Find Familiar is often considered one of the best 1st-level options. It offers tactical advantages, scouting capabilities, and more. Other popular choices include Minor Illusion and Disguise Self.
7. Can Arcane Tricksters cast Invisibility?
Yes, Arcane Tricksters can learn Invisibility, and they can also learn Greater Invisibility at a later level.
8. What are the best schools of magic for an Arcane Trickster?
Enchantment and Illusion are the best schools, as they are the primary schools available for selection and fit well with the rogue playstyle. They offer spells that are perfect for trickery, deception, and control.
9. Do I need a spellbook as an Arcane Trickster?
No, Arcane Tricksters do not use a spellbook. They learn a fixed number of spells and can cast them as long as they have available spell slots.
10. Do Arcane Tricksters use Intelligence for spellcasting?
Yes, Arcane Tricksters use Intelligence as their spellcasting ability. Your Intelligence modifier determines your spell attack bonus and spell save DC.
11. Can Arcane Tricksters use spells for Sneak Attack?
No, Sneak Attack can only be applied to Dexterity-based weapon attacks, not spell attacks.
12. What is the best race for an Arcane Trickster?
Elves and Gnomes are often considered the best races. High Elves and Forest Gnomes offer bonuses to Dexterity and Intelligence, which are vital to this subclass.
13. Can Arcane Tricksters cast spells in armor?
Yes, they are proficient in light armor which allows for spellcasting. They could also become proficient with medium armor through the feat Armor Proficiency: Medium.
14. Is it better to multiclass an Arcane Trickster?
Multiclassing an Arcane Trickster is a complex decision. Dipping into a full caster class can lead to spell slot increases and access to higher spells, however, it will delay advancement in the rogue class.
15. What are some effective strategies for an Arcane Trickster?
Utilize stealth and mobility, combined with control and buffing spells. Employ Booming Blade for extra melee damage, and use spells like Invisibility and Greater Invisibility to gain an advantage on the battlefield. Focus on maximizing the benefit from your actions as your available spells are limited.