What Classes Get Extra Attack 5e

What Classes Get Extra Attack in D&D 5e? A Comprehensive Guide

The ability to make multiple attacks in a single turn is a significant boon in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e). This coveted ability, known as Extra Attack, drastically increases a character's damage output and battlefield effectiveness. But which classes get this powerful feature, and how do they acquire it? This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of Extra Attack in D&D 5e, examining each class and the paths they can take to unleash multiple attacks.

Understanding Extra Attack

Extra Attack isn't a singular feature; it's a description of an action a character can take. The core mechanic is simple: at a certain level, a character can make two attacks instead of one when taking the Attack action on their turn. This isn't merely doubling damage; it also significantly increases the chances of landing critical hits and triggering other effects tied to attacks, such as the Barbarian's Reckless Attack or the Rogue's Sneak Attack.

Crucially, Extra Attack applies only to the Attack action. It doesn't affect attacks made with other actions, such as bonus actions (like the rogue's Cunning Action) or reactions (like the opportunity attack). Furthermore, the "attack" referred to must target a creature. Attacks made against objects, or other targets, do not benefit from Extra Attack.

Classes That Naturally Gain Extra Attack

Several classes inherently gain Extra Attack as part of their class features:

Fighter:

The Fighter is arguably the quintessential Extra Attack class. They gain Extra Attack at 5th level, providing a significant power boost in the mid-game and solidifying their role as a consistent damage dealer. This is a defining aspect of the Fighter's combat prowess. Their progression consistently focuses on improving their combat capabilities, and Extra Attack is a key component of that.

Barbarian:

Barbarians, known for their raw power and rage-fueled attacks, also gain Extra Attack at 5th level. This synergizes perfectly with their rage abilities, allowing them to unleash devastating blows with increased frequency. The combination of Extra Attack and Rage makes the Barbarian a formidable force in close combat.

Paladin:

Paladins, the holy warriors of the D&D universe, receive Extra Attack at 6th level. This aligns with their typically more supportive early game role. While they may not deal as much raw damage as Fighters or Barbarians early on, the 6th-level Extra Attack allows them to significantly improve their damage output in the later stages of the game.

Ranger:

Rangers, the masters of both ranged and melee combat, unlock Extra Attack at 5th level, mirroring the Fighter's progression. This allows them to effectively utilize both their ranged and melee weapon proficiencies, offering flexibility and power. Their proficiency in both allows them to utilize their Extra Attack to its full extent, regardless of circumstances.

Monk:

Monks, masters of martial arts, gain Extra Attack differently. They don't get it at a specific level like the other classes. Instead, Monks gain Extra Attack at 6th level, but only when utilizing their Martial Arts feature and utilizing unarmed strikes or monk weapons. This unique approach to Extra Attack makes the Monk's Extra Attack a valuable feature for their play style, and is an important aspect of their martial arts capabilities.

Classes That Can Obtain Extra Attack Through Multiclassing

While some classes inherently gain Extra Attack, others can acquire it through strategic multiclassing. This opens up exciting character-building options, allowing players to combine the benefits of various classes.

Multiclassing with any of the classes mentioned above can provide access to Extra Attack. However, the level at which they unlock Extra Attack depends on which level is attained in the class that grants Extra Attack. For instance, a 2nd-level Fighter/ 3rd-level Wizard would not receive Extra Attack, but a 5th-level Fighter/ 3rd-level Wizard would.

Other Ways to Achieve Multiple Attacks

While Extra Attack is the most common and often the most powerful method to achieve multiple attacks, there are a few other ways to gain similar effects:

• Action Surge (Fighter): The Fighter's Action Surge ability allows them to take an additional action on their turn, potentially allowing for two attacks even before they reach 5th level. This is a powerful tactical option, particularly in crucial moments of combat.

• Spells: Certain spells, such as Haste, can grant additional actions, allowing for multiple attacks in a single turn. However, these are dependent on spell slots and the availability of the spell.

• Feats: Some feats, like the Great Weapon Master feat, can indirectly increase the number of effective attacks by providing bonuses based on successful attacks. However, these do not provide the same bonus as Extra Attack, and may not benefit every character type.

• Dual Wielding (with appropriate proficiency): With proficiency in dual wielding and appropriate weapons, a character can make two attacks as a standard action. However, it's important to note that while seemingly similar, this is not the same as Extra Attack. Extra Attack can use more powerful weapons and synergizes more effectively with certain features.

Optimizing Extra Attack

Maximizing the effectiveness of Extra Attack requires careful consideration of several factors:

• Weapon Choice: Selecting weapons with high damage dice is crucial. Two attacks with a d4 are less effective than two attacks with a d10 or higher.

• Ability Scores: Investing in the relevant ability score (Strength or Dexterity, depending on your weapon) is essential to increase the damage dealt by each attack.

• Critical Hits: Increasing the chance of landing critical hits dramatically increases your damage output. Consider feats and features that enhance your critical hit probability.

• Synergistic Abilities: Combine Extra Attack with other abilities that benefit from multiple attacks. Examples include the Barbarian's Reckless Attack, the Rogue's Sneak Attack, and various spells.

Conclusion

Extra Attack is a game-changer in D&D 5e. Understanding which classes gain it naturally and how to acquire it through multiclassing or other means is essential for effective character building. By optimizing your character's build and utilizing Extra Attack strategically, you can significantly increase your damage output and become a more powerful and effective combatant on the battlefield. Remember, the power of Extra Attack lies not only in the raw damage increase but also in its synergistic potential with other class abilities and feats. Choosing the right class and weapon and understanding their limitations allows you to efficiently play to your class' strengths and build a strong, consistent character.