Mastering the Two-Handed Arsenal: A Class-by-Class Guide

Two-handed weapons, the titans of any adventurer’s arsenal, offer a unique blend of raw power and tactical considerations. From cleaving through hordes of enemies to delivering devastating single blows, wielding a two-handed weapon is often the hallmark of a formidable combatant. But who exactly gets to swing these mighty implements? Let’s break it down, game by game:

World of Warcraft (WoW): In the expansive world of Azeroth, the following classes can effectively wield two-handed weapons:

• Warriors: Masters of arms and fury, warriors are the quintessential two-handed weapon users, capable of wielding axes, swords, and maces with devastating proficiency.
• Paladins: Holy warriors who channel the Light, Paladins can use two-handed maces and swords to smite their foes.
• Hunters: While primarily known for their ranged prowess, Hunters can equip two-handed axes and swords for melee combat.
• Death Knights: Fallen heroes risen to serve the Lich King, Death Knights utilize two-handed swords, axes, and maces to unleash their dark power.
• Evokers: The newest class, Evokers, can channel draconic energies and wield two-handed staves and other appropriate weapons, depending on their specialization.
• Mages, Priests, and Warlocks: While typically favoring wands and staves for spellcasting, these classes can utilize two-handed staves for both their magical properties and, in some situations, for melee defense.
• Druids: Druids can use two-handed maces and staves, often imbuing them with nature’s power.

Diablo II: In the grim world of Sanctuary, the list expands somewhat:

• Barbarian: The undisputed king of melee, the Barbarian can dual-wield two-handed swords (a unique class ability) in addition to all other two-handed weapons.

• Amazon: While primarily a ranged class, the Amazon can effectively wield two-handed spears and polearms.

• Paladin: As in WoW, Paladins can wield two-handed melee weapons.

• Necromancer: Can use two-handed scythes.

• Sorceress: Can use two-handed staves.

• Druid: Can use two-handed staves.

• Assassin: Can use two-handed staves.

• Warrior/Fighter: Can use all melee weapons. Dungeons & Dragons (5e): The landscape shifts from class restriction to weapon property restriction:

• Any Class: In 5e, any class can use a two-handed weapon, assuming they have proficiency in that weapon type. The key is that the weapon must have the “two-handed” property, meaning it requires two hands to wield effectively. This includes weapons like greatswords, greataxes, and mauls. What really determines the class “best” for using two-handed weapons are the class features like Fighting Styles, and subclasses that enhance the use of specific weapons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can Rogues use two-handed weapons?

No. In World of Warcraft, Rogues can only wield one-handed weapons like daggers, swords, and maces. Their specialization lies in agility and finesse, making them unsuitable for the brute force of two-handed combat. This holds true across most fantasy RPGs; rogues are about quick strikes, not overpowering blows.

2. Can Hunters use two-handed swords in WoW Classic?

Yes, Hunters can equip two-handed swords and axes in WoW Classic. However, their primary focus is on ranged combat using bows, crossbows, and guns. Using a two-handed weapon is more of a fallback option.

3. Can Warriors dual wield two-handed weapons?

The answer depends on the game. In Diablo II, Barbarians can dual wield two-handed swords due to a unique class feature. In WoW, Warriors cannot dual-wield two-handed weapons in the traditional sense. They can dual-wield one-handed weapons, though.

4. Can Monks use two-handed weapons?

This varies greatly. In WoW, Monks can only wield one-handed weapons. In D&D 5e, Kensei Monks may be able to use some martial weapons with the Two-Handed property.

5. Are samurai swords (katanas) two-handed?

Generally, yes. A katana is designed to be wielded with two hands, providing greater control and power in each strike. The long grip facilitates this two-handed grip.

6. Can Druids use two-handed swords?

No, Druids typically cannot use two-handed swords in World of Warcraft. They can, however, use two-handed maces and staves, aligning with their nature-based theme.

7. What classes are best for two-weapon fighting (dual wielding)?

In D&D 5e, Fighters, Rangers, and Rogues (especially multiclassed Fighter/Rogues) are often considered the best for two-weapon fighting, due to their class features and fighting styles that enhance their effectiveness with dual weapons. WoW has similar concepts, where certain specializations within Warrior, Rogue, and other classes excel at dual-wielding.

8. Can Warlocks use two-handed weapons?

Yes, in World of Warcraft, Warlocks can use two-handed staves, although their primary focus is on spellcasting. The staff serves as both a magical conduit and a potential melee weapon.

9. Can any character use two-weapon fighting in D&D 5e?

Yes, absolutely. Anyone can grab two weapons, but the weapons must be “light melee” weapons, such as daggers or shortswords. Classes like Ranger, Fighter, and Rogue excel at dual-wielding and often enhance their combat skills with class abilities.

10. Can Hexblades use two-handed weapons?

Yes, in D&D 5e, a Hexblade Warlock can use a two-handed pact weapon and apply their Charisma modifier to attack and damage rolls. This makes them effective melee combatants.

11. Can Goliaths one-hand two-handed weapons?

No, even a Goliath in D&D 5e cannot one-hand a weapon with the two-handed property. The “two-handed” property dictates that the weapon requires two hands to wield effectively, regardless of the creature’s size or strength.

12. Can Wizards use two-handed weapons?

In some game systems, Wizards can use staves. Generally, a wizard won’t be effective in battle with a two-handed weapon because they have no proficiencies.

13. Can you two-hand a longsword?

Yes, a longsword is designed for two-handed use, providing a balance of reach, power, and control. It’s a versatile weapon often favored by martial classes in fantasy settings.

14. Can warriors use 2H axes?

Yes, all Warriors in World of Warcraft can equip both one-handed and two-handed axes. It’s a common weapon choice for the class.

15. When can Warriors use 2 handed weapons?

Warriors can use 2 handed weapons from Level 1. Level restrictions apply only to dual-wielding two-handed weapons, which the Warrior cannot do, regardless of level or specialisation.

Understanding which classes can wield these weapons is crucial for character planning and strategic combat decisions in any fantasy RPG. So, arm yourself wisely and prepare to unleash the power of two-handed combat!

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