Which Paladins Get Haste? A Deep Dive into the Divine Speed Buff
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The burning question on many a Paladin’s mind: who gets to wield the power of Haste? This powerful spell, coveted for its action economy boost and combat prowess, isn’t a universal Paladin perk. Specifically, only two Paladin subclasses gain access to the Haste spell through their class features. Let’s break down exactly which Paladins can tap into this incredible buff.
Paladin Subclasses with Access to Haste
Oath of Glory Paladins
The Oath of Glory Paladin is one of the two subclasses that can learn and cast the Haste spell. These Paladins, driven by a desire for great feats and legendary actions, gain access to this spell at ninth level. This fits thematically, allowing them to move with incredible speed and precision on the battlefield. As an offensive buff, Haste perfectly complements the Glory Paladin’s focus on action and heroism. The extra attack, improved AC, and advantage on Dexterity saves make them truly formidable on the front lines.
Oath of Vengeance Paladins
Similar to their Glory-bound brethren, Oath of Vengeance Paladins also gain access to the Haste spell when they reach ninth level. Vengeance Paladins, fueled by righteous anger and a pursuit of justice, find that Haste allows them to quickly close the distance to their foes, striking with ruthless efficiency. This subclass is all about striking hard and fast, making Haste an invaluable addition to their arsenal. The combination of increased speed and extra attacks aligns perfectly with their relentless nature.
How Paladins Use Haste Effectively
For both Oath of Glory and Oath of Vengeance Paladins, the Haste spell offers a significant power boost. Here’s how they can best utilize it:
- Increased Offense: The extra action gained from Haste is most often used for an additional attack, allowing Paladins to deal significantly more damage each turn.
- Enhanced Mobility: Doubled movement speed enables Paladins to rapidly reach enemies or reposition themselves on the battlefield.
- Improved Defense: The +2 bonus to AC and advantage on Dexterity saving throws adds an extra layer of survivability, helping to keep them in the fight.
- Concentration: It is crucial to maintain concentration while casting Haste. Any damage taken can lead to losing concentration and subsequently losing the beneficial effect of Haste.
- Action Economy: The extra action can also be used to dash, disengage, or take other actions, making them more versatile in combat.
FAQs About Paladins and Haste
Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify the nuances of Haste for Paladins and related topics:
1. Do all Paladins get access to Haste?
No, not all Paladins get Haste. It is a feature specifically granted to Oath of Glory and Oath of Vengeance Paladins at level nine. Other subclasses do not gain this spell through their class features.
2. What level do Paladins get Haste?
Both Oath of Glory and Oath of Vengeance Paladins gain the ability to cast Haste when they reach ninth level.
3. Does Haste give advantage?
Yes, Haste grants the target advantage on Dexterity saving throws.
4. What are the benefits of Haste?
Haste doubles a creature’s speed, grants a +2 bonus to AC, gives advantage on Dexterity saving throws, and provides an additional action on each of its turns.
5. Can Paladins cast haste on themselves?
Yes, Paladins can cast Haste on themselves. The target of the spell must be willing, and since you are usually willing to be buffed, that is not a problem.
6. What spell level is Haste?
Haste is a 3rd-level spell.
7. What is the best stat for a Paladin?
While personal preference plays a role, Strength is often considered the most important stat for a Paladin. Constitution is also crucial as it increases survivability. Charisma is important for spellcasting.
8. Do Paladins learn cantrips?
Normally, Paladins do not learn cantrips. They can technically access them by taking the Magic Initiate feat.
9. What is the best Paladin subclass?
The strength of a subclass depends on individual playstyle and preferences, but Ancients, Devotion, and Vengeance are often considered among the strongest. Glory is also a powerful subclass for those wanting an action-oriented character.
10. How does Haste work with spells?
Haste itself is a spell with a duration and concentration, not a general spell modifier. The extra action given by Haste cannot be used to cast another spell.
11. What stat do Paladins use to cast spells?
Paladins use Charisma as their spellcasting ability.
12. Can you cast two cantrips with haste?
No, you cannot cast two cantrips using the extra action from Haste. The extra action can be used for actions such as attack, dash, or disengage.
13. What is considered a good use of the Haste spell?
Haste can be effectively used on a frontline martial class such as a Barbarian, Fighter, or a Paladin, allowing them to deal more damage.
14. How fast is haste?
Haste, as a spell, doubles the target’s speed. This translates to twice the walking speed, climbing speed, swimming speed, etc. in game mechanics.
15. What other classes can cast Haste?
Besides Paladins (Oath of Glory and Vengeance), Sorcerers, Wizards, Artificers, and some Rangers (Horizon Walker) and Druids (Circle of the Land with Grassland connection) can also cast Haste.
Conclusion
The power of Haste is undeniably potent, especially in the hands of a Paladin. However, this capability is specifically tied to the Oath of Glory and Oath of Vengeance subclasses. Understanding these nuances will help players optimize their builds and fully utilize the benefits of this incredible spell. With the extra movement, extra attack, and improved defenses it provides, Haste can be the key to victory for any Paladin who can tap into its incredible potential.