At level 1, this Warlock build specializes in ranged spellcasting using Eldritch Blast effectively at 1d6 damage. The ‘See the Unseen’ invocation provides sight for invisible foes, complementing the warlock’s focus. Featuring Spell Penetration and Greater Spell Penetration, it bypasses enemy protection.
Stat Block Level 1:
Human Warlock 1; CR 0.5; Medium Humanoid; HD 1d6+1; hp 7; Init +1; Spd 30 ft.; AC 15, touch 11, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +0; Grp -1; Atk Eldritch Blast +1 ranged (1d6) or melee touch +1; Full Atk Eldritch Blast +1 ranged (1d6) or melee touch +1; SA Eldritch Blast 1d6, See the Unseen; SQ Detect Magic Continuous; AL CN; SV Fort +3, Ref +1, Will +2; Str 8, Dex 12, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 18.
Eldritch Blast: Ranged touch attack dealing 1d6 damage. See the Unseen: Gain darkvision 60 ft.
Possessions: Chainshirt.
Level 5 Warlock-Witch builds prioritize adaptability by striking a balance between arcane spellcasting and eldritch might. With the Knowledge Devotion feat, spells from the Battle Sorcerer class, and Eldritch Blast at their disposal, this character can play a variety of roles, from a perceptive spellcaster to a powerful offensive force.
Stat Block Level 5:
Witch: female, human Warlock 3/Battle Sorcerer 2; CR 5; Medium humanoid; HD 3d6+6 plus 2d8+6; hp 36; Init +1; Spd 30 ft.; AC 15, touch 11, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +3; Grp +2; Atk Eldritch Blast +3 ranged touch (2d6); Full Atk Eldritch Blast +3 ranged touch (2d6); SA Eldritch Blast 2d6, Invocations (Least); SQ DR 1/Cold Iron, Detect Magic, Eldritch Spear, Summon Familiar; AL Chaotic Neutral; SV Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +8; Str 8, Dex 12, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 18.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Knowledge (The Planes) +8; Spell Penetration, Greater Spell Penetration, Knowledge Devotion. Special
Attacks and Qualities:
Eldritch Blast allows for a magical ranged attack dealing 2d6 damage; DR 1/Cold Iron reduces damage from non-Cold Iron weapons; Detect Magic at will reveals magical auras; Eldritch Spear increases Eldritch Blast range to 250 feet; Summon Familiar gains a bond with a mystical creature.
Possessions: Chain shirt, component pouch.
They use a potent combination of dangerous arcane blasts and magical spells at level 10. They can deliberately choose spells to fit various situations since they can cast spells like an experienced sorcerer. Their DR against cold iron and Fiendish Resilience improves toughness, while their ‘Fell Flight’ provides them with exceptional mobility. ‘Spellblast’ is the ultimate ability at this stage, enabling concurrent casting and blasting, a hallmark tactic for overwhelming adversaries.
Stat Block Level 10:
Warlock-Witch: Female, Human Warlock 6/Battle Sorcerer 4/Eldritch Theurge 10; CR 10; Medium Humanoid; HD 8d6+6d8+40; hp 80; Init +1; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 11, flat-footed 16; Base Atk +6; Grp +4; Atk Eldritch Blast +7 ranged touch (3d6) or Scimitar +4 melee (1d6-1); Full Atk Eldritch Blast +7 ranged touch (3d6) or Scimitar +4 melee (1d6-1); SA Eldritch Blast, Spellblast; SQ Detect Magic, DR 2/Cold Iron, Fiendish Resilience 1, Baleful Utterance, Fell Flight; AL Chaotic Neutral; SV Fort +9, Ref +7, Will +10; Str 8, Dex 12, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 20.
Eldritch Blast provides a potent ranged magical attack; Spellblast enhances offensive capability by integrating spellcasting and eldritch abilities.
Possessions: Chainshirt, Scimitar, various spell components.
Combining the flexibility of a warlock with the magical power of a sorcerer, this Level 15 Witch is a deadly strategist. Equipped with a range of invocations and spells, as well as strong eldritch blasts that deal 6d6 damage. They are proficient in both magical and academic pursuits, with specialization in Knowledge (Arcana) and Knowledge (Planes).
Stat Block Level 15:
Witch: female, human Warlock 6/Battle Sorcerer 4/Eldritch Theurge 5; CR 15; Medium humanoid (human); HD 6d6+12 plus 4d8+8 plus 5d4+10; hp 89; Init +5; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 11, flat-footed 16; Base Atk +11; Grp +10; Atk Eldritch Blast +11 ranged touch (6d6) or dagger +10 melee (1d4-1/19-20); Full Atk Eldritch Blast +11 ranged touch (6d6) or dagger +10 melee (1d4-1/19-20); SA Eldritch Blast, Spellblast, Enervating Shadows; SQ DR 4/cold iron, detect magic, see the unseen, fell flight, fiendish resilience 1, walk unseen; AL Chaotic Neutral; SV Fort +9, Ref +11, Will +12; Str 8, Dex 12, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 20.
Eldritch blast is a signature attack that scales with level, the ability to fly indefinitely with Fell Flight, and shadow manipulation with Enervating Shadows.
Possessions: Chainshirt, dagger.
This character is an incredibly adaptable spellcasting powerhouse. With capabilities from Warlock, Battle Sorcerer, and Eldritch Theurge, it offers a matrix of arcane and invocational abilities. Eldritch Blasts at 7d6 and invocations like Word of Changing complement spellcasting through Eldritch Spellweave. This build excels as a master blaster and can function as a scout, face, or secondary role to harness the battlefield to its advantage.
Stat Block Level 20:
Unnamed Witch: female, human Warlock 6/Battle Sorcerer 4/Eldritch Theurge 10; CR 20; Medium humanoid (human); HD 6d6+4d8+10d4+75; hp 112; Init +1; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 11, flat-footed 16; Base Atk +14; Grp +13; Atk Eldritch Blast +14 ranged touch (7d6) or Melee touch +13; Full Atk Eldritch Blast +14/+9/+4 ranged touch (7d6) or Melee touch +13; SA Eldritch Blast, Eldritch Spellweave, Spellblast; SQ DR 5/Cold Iron, Fiendish Resilience 2, Eldritch Invocations, Familiar; AL Chaotic Neutral; SV Fort +14, Ref +11, Will +13; Str 8, Dex 12, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 22.
Possessions: Chainshirt, various spell components, and arcane focus.
Milestones Of Character Development
Levels 1-5: Beginning as a Warlock, the character acquires initial powers like Eldritch Blast (1d6) and See the Unseen. Initial accomplishments such as Spell Penetration and Greater Spell Penetration boost magical abilities. Upon reaching level 3, the character gains Knowledge Devotion and a more potent Eldritch Blast (2d6), enhancing its defenses with DR 1/Cold Iron.
Levels 6-10: Transitioning into a Battle Sorcerer by level 4, the character learns to summon and improve familiars. The introduction of Eldritch Theurge opens access to powerful abilities including Baleful Utterance and Fell Flight, paired with an increase in Eldritch Blast to 3d6 and DR 2/Cold Iron defense.
Levels 11-15: The path of Eldritch Theurge is furthered with abilities like Eldritch Spellweave and Eldritch Chain. Spellcasting is buffed with productivity through Extend Spell while defenses are strengthened to DR 4/Cold Iron. Offensive capabilities flourish with Eldritch Blast reaching 6d6 and the addition of Enervating Shadows.
Levels 16-20: Culminating the Witch[1]’s growth are pivotal capabilities such as Greatreach Blast and Vitriolic Blast. The Warlock levels finalize strategic gameplay with Quicken Spell, Chilling Tentacle, and Word of Changing, while the Eldritch Blast peaks at a ferocious 7d6.
Core Abilities & Features
Starting as a Warlock, the character gains access to the Eldritch Blast, a core feature that begins at 1d6 damage and scales significantly with levels. Coupled with invocations like See the Unseen and Eldritch Spear, the Warlock becomes adept at battlefield control and reconnaissance. Meanwhile, early feats like Spell Penetration enhance the effectiveness of overcoming enemies’ magical defenses.
As the build transitions into the Battle Sorcerer class, the addition of arcane spells broadens the player’s toolkit. The increased Constitution boosts durability, vital for any frontline skirmishes. By standing at the edge of combat, the character leverages spells and Warlock abilities to harass enemies, exploiting opportunities with spells learned via careful planning.
The Eldritch Theurge class elevates the build into an intricate hybrid, enabling the fusion of spell and invocation. Eldritch Spellweave and Spellblast allow for devastating combo attacks, already boosted by feats like Ability Focus (Eldritch Blast). As Fiendish Resilience and Damage Reduction against Cold Iron become more pronounced, the Witch[1] can withstand greater enemy pressure, maintaining presence in extended engagements.
Equipment Progression
Level Range
Equipment
Details
L1-5
Chain Shirt +1
Provides a good balance of protection with minimal hindrance to your spellcasting. The additional enhancement gives an extra edge.
Lesser Chasuble of Fell Power
Boosts your eldritch blast damage by an extra d6, crucial for early high-damage output.
L6-10
Mithral Chain Shirt +2
Upgrade to mithral for lessened spell failure chance and better Dexterity bonus compatibility.
Cloak of Resistance +2
Increases all saving throws, providing better defenses against spells and abilities.
L11-15
Mithral Chain Shirt +3
Further enhancement to maintain defense without interfering with your Dexterity reliance.
Chasuble of Fell Power
Improves damage output for eldritch blasts, stacking with the lesser version for a total boost of +2d6.
L16-20
Mithral Chain Shirt +4
Ultimate armor upgrade ensuring maximum AC bonus with minimal penalties.
Cloak of Resistance +5
Maximizes your save bonuses, crucial at high levels for surviving powerful enemy spells.
Combat Scenarios as a Witch
Dungeon Crawls:
Utilize “See the Unseen” to detect invisible threats and lead your party safely through dark corridors. Use “Baleful Utterance” to shatter obstacles impeding passage.
Open Fields:
Employ “Fell Flight” to gain aerial advantage, keeping foes at range with “Eldritch Spear.” Control the battlefield from above with devastating “Eldritch Blast” tactics.
Ambushes:
React swiftly with “Improved Initiative,” turning ambushers into the ambushed with rapid “Spellblast” combos. Follow up with “Enervating Shadows” to weaken their ranks.
Defensive Stands:
Raise “Fiendish Resilience” for defensive endurance, with “Eldritch Chain” allowing you to spread damage efficiently. Utilize “Deceive Item” for strategic use of found magical items.
Urban Encounters:
“Walk Unseen” to stealth your way through chaotic scenes. Quickly respond with “Vitriolic Blast” in narrow alleyways for lasting damage, while “Word of Changing” disrupts enemy forces.
Weaknesses & Counters
Weakness
Counter
Vulnerability to Cold Iron (DR 1-5/Cold Iron)
Consider acquiring equipment that boosts defense or spell reflect abilities.
Limited Skills in Knowledge (Arcana and The Planes both 8)
Arrange training sessions or gather magical items that enhance these skills, such as Headband of Intellect (+2 to Int-based checks).
Relatively Low Hit Points (due to mix of d4 and d6 HD)
Use defensive spells such as ‘Mage Armor’ or ‘Shield’, and invocations like ‘Dark One’s Own Luck’ to boost defenses.
Dexterity Only Moderate (Dex 12)
Equip items that increase Dexterity such as Gloves of Dexterity (+2 Dex) to improve ranged attack accuracy and Armor Class.
Rely on Invocations and Eldritch Blast
Gain flexibility by learning and equipping various scrolls or wands to act outside of regular abilities.
Dependence on Charisma (Cha 18)
Avoid Charisma-draining effects by using items such as Cloak of Charisma (+2 to Cha) to buffer against loss.
Roleplaying the Witch
Exploring the enchanting character of the Witch[1] creates a wealth of narrative possibilities. As part of a mysterious coven, your character adds a sense of intrigue and mystery to any campaign. Imagine yourself as a misunderstood protector of age-old truths, whose intentions and future goals remain unclear. Welcome the unexpected meetings with villagers, who may misinterpret your character’s dark abilities as evil, igniting both dread and intrigue
The theme of duality plays a significant role here. While you wield formidable powers, they’re often tempered by whispered rumors of your dubious past. Interact with NPCs using your charismatic charm (aided by your high Charisma) to better influence or mislead those around you. Embrace this dual nature by having your character struggle with their darker impulses versus the desire to aid those in need. Thus, every decision made by your character can be a captivating blend of morality, power, and mystery.
FAQ
What makes the Witch[1] build unique among other D&D 3.5 classes?
The Witch[1] build merges Warlock powers with Battle Sorcerer spells. It’s versatile, allowing combinations of invocations and spells in combat. Using Eldritch Theurge, it excels at both damage and control strategies. This unique mix offers broad tactical options on the battlefield.
How can I effectively handle the Witch[1]’s low Strength?
Focus on using spells and invocations to keep enemies at a distance. Utilize Eldritch Spear for long-range attacks, bypassing physical confrontations. Enhance mobility with Fell Flight, staying out of reach from melee opponents. Equipment like Gloves of Dexterity can also aid combat effectiveness.
What are some effective spells at higher levels for Witches?
Eldritch Spellweave and Greatreach Blast deliver strategic offensive power. Vitriolic Blast offers potency against enemies with high resistances. Chilling Tentacles detain foes, while Word of Changing disrupts plans. Protective spells and invocations bolster defense against persistent threats.
Can the Witch[1] build be adapted to different campaign scenarios?
Absolutely, its strength lies in adaptability to various settings. In dungeons, use Seethe Unseen for detecting invisible foes. In urban areas, Walk Unseen to move through crowded places stealthily. The Witch[1] can provide strategic advantages across landscapes.
What are common weaknesses of the Witch[1] and their solutions?
Vulnerability to Cold Iron is a notable weakness. Consider defensive equipment that boosts resilience against such threats. It’s vital to maintain a variety of offensive and defensive spells ready. Balancing stat allocation can mitigate lower physical attributes.
Join us at Stellar Dragons!
Try playing with a Witch in your next game. Do you think the Witch[1] could be the best build in D&D 3.5? Join us in exploring this discussion at the Stellar Dragons Discord server: https://discord.gg/uAPvgEq6Z7.
Writer, Editor, GM, Technologist – Andrew’s been playing TTRPGs since as far back as he can recall… at least sometime in the nineties… or was it the early 2000s?
The dark approached the hut near the city, yet still within the woods, giving a scan of the surroundings. He saw the first member of his coven and he gave a subtle nod. The old, crooked woman, who ran after her black cat in her garden, the foul lingering scent of whatever she was cooking inside her hut made him nauseous.
–“What in the nine hells are you cooking, woman?”
Stopping in her tracks and turned to him, suddenly uncurling to take her full height.
–“The next part of his plan of course”.
–“Show me”…
Race
Human
Class
Warlock 6/Battle Sorcerer 4/Eldritch Theurge 10
Ability Scores
Str 8/Dex 12/Con 15/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 18
Skills
Knowledge(Arcana) 8, Knowledge(The Planes) 8
Equipment
a Chainshirt
Goal
Between your eldritch blast, your invocations, and being able to cast arcane spells like a high level sorcerer, you are an incredibly adaptable character. Choose your spell known with care and you can be an incredible face, or a master blaster, or a great scout, or be an excellent secondary of all three.
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