Unleashing the Power: Demystifying D&D's Warlock Changes
The latest One D&D playtest introduces significant transformations to the Warlock class, including the revival of Pact Magic and a revamped Pact Boon Discover the exciting changes to the Warlock's signature abilities and spells
Highlights
One DnD is currently conducting playtests, which involve introducing substantial modifications and enhancements to core classes such as the Warlock, as well as refining background mechanics. These adjustments are aimed at gathering valuable feedback for further fine-tuning.
The Warlock class in One DnD has been enhanced with several adjustments, such as the revival of Pact Magic and the redesign of Pact Boon, resulting in a more robust and customizable class.
A significant enhancement to the Great Old One subclass is the introduction of a new Level 3 feature. This feature allows players to modify their Warlock Spell, enabling it to inflict Psychic damage. Additionally, entering into a pact with The Archfey now provides Warlocks with the ability to utilize Misty Step.
Playtests are currently underway for One DnD, the latest edition of Dungeons & Dragons. Fans have noticed significant changes and additions to almost all the base classes, with the Warlock receiving particularly notable adjustments to its core features. In addition to classes, other mechanics such as backgrounds have also been targeted for changes. The purpose of the playtest is to gather valuable feedback that will help the developers adjust the new features of One DnD before its release in 2024.
One DnD is designed to make new Dungeon Masters feel at ease, as the Dungeon Master's Guide has been restructured to prioritize basic gameplay before delving into worldbuilding. Excitingly, players will also have the opportunity to create and customize a headquarters for their party, adding to the overall enjoyment of the game. While there are numerous other additions and modifications being made to One DnD, the developers have assured players that they needn't worry about major changes to the game's core rules. This is because the new edition has been designed to be compatible with DnD 5e.
The Warlock Lost and Regained its Pact Magic in the One D&D Playtest
The developers are continuously experimenting with the Warlock class during the ongoing One DnD playtest period. Instead of selecting a subclass at the first level, it now takes place at the third level. While this may initially seem awkward, enhancements to early-level Invocations and Pact Magic compensate for this change. In the latest version, the class maintains the same number of spell slots (through its Pact Magic feature) and primary attribute (Charisma) as in 5e. Initially, this may not have been significant, but it was actually a response to a more significant adjustment made to the class in previous iterations of the playtest.
Previously, the Warlock's primary spell casting feature, Pact Magic, had its spell slot level and quantity increased at a certain level. However, it was replaced with a system that resembles that of a wizard, offering more slots but weaker spells. This change was met with significant criticism, evidenced by designer Jeremy Crawford stating that recent playtest surveys indicated the class received a negative rating below 70%. Consequently, adjustments were made for the seventh One DnD Playtest.
One D&D Reworks Warlock’s Pact Boon for the Better
The reintroduction of Pact Magic was the ideal solution. Nevertheless, Wizards of the Coast remained committed to their goal of encouraging Warlocks to cast a greater number of spells. Consequently, they introduced a new feature at the second level known as Magical Cunning. This ability enables players to recover fifty percent of their expended spell slots through a brief ritual.
The feature of the Warlock's Pact Boon has been discontinued. Instead, its primary pacts (Blade, Chain, and Tome) have now become invocations. Additionally, players are no longer restricted to activating only one of these pacts. This means that players have the freedom to utilize a pact-powered blade, familiar, and spell book simultaneously, if desired. Notably, the Pact of the Blade has received a substantial enhancement. Summoning an existing pact weapon or forming a connection with a magical weapon now requires only a bonus action. Previously, the former consumed a full action and the latter involved a time-consuming hour-long ritual.
The Otherworldly Patrons have also received significant enhancements. The base roster now includes a sourcebook subclass called "Celestial Patron." This particular patron is ideal for players seeking robust healing and defensive abilities. Those who desire increased mobility can form a pact with The Archfey, which now grants access to Misty Step, enabling the player to teleport up to 30 feet. Furthermore, the Great Old One subclass has a new Level 3 feature that allows players to alter their Warlock Spell to inflict Psychic damage. These changes and additions not only strengthen Warlock builds but also provide greater customization options. One DnD is currently under development and is scheduled for release in 2024.
