How Many Extra Attacks Can You Have in D&D?
The Extra Attack feature is one of the most exciting combat mechanics in Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). Players love the idea of dodging and weaving between blows, striking back with renewed ferocity, and causing chaos on the battlefield. But just how many extra attacks can you have in D&D?
Base Extra Attack Rules
Beginning at 5th level, fighters can attack twice instead of once when using the Attack action on their turn. The number of attacks increases to three when they reach 11th level, and to four when they reach 20th level.
Non-Fighter Extra Attack Mechanics
Other classes, like rogues, barbarians, and monks, gain access to extra attacks, but the mechanics differ.
- Rogues: Rogues gain two extra attacks when they hit with a finesse sword or a shortsword in combat.
- Barbarians: Barbarians gain an extra attack once per day, and every time they make a great rage.
- Monks: Monks, with their Ki, gain an extra attack once they reach 2nd level.
Action Surge: An Additional Source of Attacks
Action Surge is another feature that grants additional attacks. When you use this feature, you can immediately take another action on your turn. You can add this feature to your initial attack, resulting in extra attacks.
- Important Note: You can’t use Action Surge to duplicate an attack. For instance, if you already hit with a short sword this turn, you can’t use Action Surge to re-hit with that same weapon.
Multiattack as a Source of Extra Attacks
Some classes, like the barbarian, cleric, and warlock, gain access to Multiattack. This feature allows the character to make multiple attacks in a single turn. The number of attacks made depends on the class feature.
- Table for Multiattack Counts
|
| Class | Multiattack Count |
|---|---|
| Barbarian | 1 (standard) + 1 (once per day) |
| Cleric | 3 (at 5th level) |
| Warlock | 2 |
Multiclassing for Extra Attacks
Multiclassing can provide additional ways to gain extra attacks.
- Table for Multiattack Counts from Multiclassing
|
| Character | Multiattack Count | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Fighter/Rogue | 4 (Fighter’s Extra Attack + Rogue’s Sneak Attack) | Fighter, Rogue |
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve outlined the various sources of extra attacks in D&D: the Extra Attack feature (Fighter, Rogue), Action Surge, and Multiclassing. While multiattack counts differ between classes, the rules provide mechanisms for players to increase the number of attacks they make in a turn.
Important Note: Refer to the D&D Official Rulebook or your preferred sourcebook for specific clarification on extra attacks for certain classes or feats. Remember to respect the constraints of the rules so that your fellow players stay engaged and challenged in battles.