The Greatsword 5e in Dungeons and Dragons is a martial melee weapon that deals 2d6 slashing damage on a hit. It is a two-handed weapon that requires proficiency with martial weapons to wield effectively.
The Greatsword is typically depicted as a large, heavy sword with a long, straight blade and a hilt designed for two-handed use. It is a common weapon for martial classes like Fighters, Barbarians, and Paladins, and is often seen as a symbol of strength and power in a fantasy setting.
Greatsword 5e combat versatility and importance
In the 5th edition, the Greatsword is an important weapon for martial classes due to its high damage potential and versatility in combat. Its two-handed grip provides greater control and allows for powerful strikes that can deal significant damage to enemies.
The Greatsword’s versatility in combat comes from its ability to be used for both slashing and piercing attacks. This makes it effective against a variety of enemies, including those with heavy armor or tough hides.
Additionally, the Greatsword can be used defensively to block attacks and protect the wielder.
Overall, the Greatsword is an important and versatile weapon for martial classes in Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition. Its high damage potential and ability to be used for a variety of attacks make it a popular choice for those who seek to dominate the battlefield.
Mechanics of the Greatsword
In Dungeons and Dragons, the Greatsword is a martial melee weapon that deals 2d6 slashing damage on a hit. It has a weight of 6 pounds and costs 50 gold pieces.
Greatsword weapon 5e details: damage, weight, and cost
The Greatsword is a massive, two-handed sword with a long, straight blade and a hilt designed for gripping with both hands. It deals 2d6 slashing damage, which makes it one of the highest damage-dealing melee weapons in the game.
However, its weight of 6 pounds means that it can be cumbersome to wield for characters with low strength scores.
The Greatsword has a cost of 50 gold pieces, which makes it a relatively expensive weapon compared to some other martial melee weapons in the game.
Properties of the Greatsword 5e
In Dungeons and Dragons, the Greatsword has two main properties: heavy and two-handed. Characters who are Small-sized or do not meet the Greatsword’s minimum strength requirement will have a disadvantage on attack rolls with the weapon due to its heavy proper.
The two-handed property means that the Greatsword requires the use of both hands to wield effectively. While this can limit a character’s ability to use a shield or other off-hand weapon
It also provides greater control and maneuverability over the weapon in combat. Additionally, the two-handed property allows characters to add their full Strength modifier to damage rolls made with the Greatsword.
Overall, the Greatsword is a powerful and versatile weapon in Dungeons and Dragons that can deal high amounts of damage but requires proficiency and strength to use effectively.
Its heavy and two-handed properties add to its unique character and make it an essential choice for martial characters who want to deal significant damage on the battlefield.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Greatsword 5e
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|
| This deal 2d6 slashing damage, making them one of the highest damage-dealing weapons in the game. | Greatswords are heavy weapons, requiring characters to have a certain strength score in order to use them effectively. |
| It can be used with one or two hands, allowing for flexibility in combat. | When used with two hands, greatswords prevent the use of a shield, leaving characters more vulnerable to attacks. |
| Greatswords are particularly effective against creatures with low armor class, making them useful in many situations. | It has a relatively short reach, making it difficult to attack opponents from a distance or while flying |
Where Can You Get A Greatsword?
Greatswords are obtainable in various ways within Dungeons and Dragons 5e. Here are a few common methods:
Purchasing from a blacksmith or weapon vendor: In most towns or cities, players can find a blacksmith or weapon vendor who sells a variety of weapons, including greatswords. The cost may vary depending on the location and the quality of the sword.
Loot from enemies: Defeated enemies in Dungeons and Dragons 5e can drop Greatswords as the loot that can be obtained by the player character. The chance of obtaining a greatsword as loot may depend on the type of enemy and the level of the encounter.
Crafting: Players can also craft their own greatswords if they have the necessary materials and proficiency in blacksmithing. This may require finding or purchasing raw materials such as metal bars, a forge, and other necessary tools.
Quest rewards: In some campaigns or adventures, completing a specific quest or task may reward players with a greatsword as a prize.
Treasure chests or hidden locations: Greatswords may be found in treasure chests or hidden locations throughout the game world. These locations may require players to solve puzzles or defeat challenges before the sword can be obtained.
The Best Greatsword Builds
Greatsword 5e Or Sword And Board?
Choosing between a greatsword or sword and board (using a one-handed sword and a shield) in 5e depends on your playstyle and character building.
Greatsword:
- Pros: The Greatsword deals high damage, can use with the Great Weapon Fighting fighting style, and has a versatile property that allows it to be use it with one or two hands.
- Cons: Slower than a one-handed sword, requires two hands to use, and doesn’t offer any additional defense.
Sword and Board:
- Pros: Using a shield in combat provides extra defense and increases the armor class (AC) of the character. When paired with the Dueling fighting style, it can also add a bonus to damage.
- Cons: Deals lower damage than a greatsword, can’t use the Great Weapon Fighting style, and doesn’t have the versatile property.
Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize dealing high damage or having the additional defense in combat. Some character builds may work better with one option over the other.
For example, a tanky character that focuses on defense may prefer a sword and board, while a damage-focused character may prefer a greatsword.
Classes and Races That Benefit from the Greatsword 5e
Fighter
The Fighter is a versatile class that can specialize in any weapon, including the Greatsword. The Great Weapon Fighting style allows them to reroll 1s and 2s on damage rolls, increasing their damage output.
The Champion subclass also grants increased critical hit chance, making the Greatsword even deadlier.
Barbarian
The Barbarian is a melee-focused class that benefits from the Greatsword’s high damage output. The Reckless Attack feature grants an advantage on attacks but leaves the Barbarian vulnerable to incoming attacks.
Aking the Great Weapon Master feat can provide Greatsword users with extra attacks and an increased potential for dealing damage.
Paladin
The Paladin is a powerful class that can use the Greatsword effectively. The Divine Smite feature allows them to expend spell slots to deal additional radiant damage on a hit. The Improved Divine Smite feature also increases the damage output of their melee attacks.
Half-Orc
The Half-orc’s Savage Attacks feature allows them to roll an additional damage die when scoring a critical hit, making the Greatsword’s high damage potential even deadlier.
Dragonborn
The Dragonborn’s breath weapon can use as a powerful area-of-effect attack, making up for the Greatsword’s lack of versatility in group combat.
Goliath
The Goliath’s powerful build allows them to carry and wield the Greatsword with ease. Their Stone’s Endurance feature also provides extra durability in combat.
Overall, the Greatsword is an effective weapon choice for any class or race that prioritizes high damage output and melee combat.
Unique Greatsword Variations
There are several unique variations of the Greatsword in 5e that offer different benefits to the wielder. Some examples include:
- Moon-Touched Greatsword: This Greatsword emits dim light in a 15-foot radius, making it an excellent option for adventurers exploring dark dungeons or underground tunnels.
- Flame Tongue Greatsword: This Greatsword deals extra fire damage on a hit, making it an excellent option for fighting creatures vulnerable to fire.
- Frost Brand Greatsword: This Greatsword deals extra cold damage on a hit and can extinguish flames up to 5 feet away, making it a versatile weapon in combat.
- Giant Slayer Greatsword: This Greatsword deals extra damage to creatures classified as giants, making it a must-have for adventurers who frequently encounter such creatures.
Greatsword 5e Tactics and Strategies
Effective tactics for using a Greatsword in combat involve utilizing its reach and damage potential. The Greatsword is a two-handed weapon, which means it can deal a significant amount of damage with each strike.
However, it also means that the wielder must sacrifice a shield or other off-hand weapon, leaving them more vulnerable to attacks.
Therefore, positioning is crucial. A Greatsword wielder should aim to stay at a distance from enemies and use their weapon’s reach to strike from a safe distance. They should also consider targeting weaker enemies first to quickly thin out the opposition.
Strategies for maximizing the Greatsword’s potential include combining it with magic. Spells like Haste, Bless, or Magic Weapon can boost a Greatsword’s damage output or increase its wielder’s attack speed.
Additionally, enchanting the Greatsword with magic, such as a +1, +2, or +3 enchantment, can enhance its damage and make it more effective against certain enemies.
Using the Greatsword in conjunction with other weapons is another viable strategy. For example, a Fighter could switch between using a Greatsword for high-damage attacks and a Longbow for ranged attacks, depending on the situation.
Alternatively, a Paladin could use a Greatsword for melee attacks and a Shield for defense, providing a balance between offense and defense.
Overview of Other Unique and Powerful Weapons
There are several other powerful weapons in 5e that, when used in combination with a Greatsword, can create devastating attacks. Some examples include:
Polearms: Polearms, such as the Halberd or Glaive, have the reach property, allowing the wielder to attack from 10 feet away. This can be advantageous in combat, allowing the wielder to stay out of harm’s way while still dealing damage.
Heavy Crossbow: The Heavy Crossbow is a powerful range weapon that can deal significant damage to its target upon hitting. This can be useful for characters who want to deal damage from a distance before engaging in melee combat with a Greatsword.
Handaxes: The thrown property of handaxes allows them to use as ranged weapons in combat. This can be useful for characters who want to attack from a distance before closing in with a Greatsword.
Warhammer: The Warhammer deals extra damage to creatures classified as undead, making it a useful weapon for adventurers who frequently encounter such creatures.
Can I Get A Magical Greatsword 5e
Yes, in D&D 5e, magical Greatswords are available to be found, purchased, or crafted by characters. These magical Greatswords can provide various benefits, such as dealing additional damage, granting special abilities, or having unique properties.
Magical Greatswords are obtainable by looting defeated monsters or completing quests. Alternatively, they can be purchased from magic item merchants, although they tend to be expensive.
Alternatively, characters with the appropriate skills and resources can craft their own magical Greatswords using the rules outlined in the Dungeon Master’s Guide.
Summary
In summary, the Greatsword is a powerful two-handed weapon in D&D 5e that can deal massive damage in combat. Certain classes and races such as the Fighter, Paladin, and Half-Orc can benefit greatly from using a Greatsword.
Feats and abilities such as Great Weapon Master and Fighting Spirit can further enhance the Greatsword’s effectiveness.
In addition to traditional Greatswords, there are also unique variations like the Moon-Touched Greatsword and Flame Tongue Greatsword, as well as other weapons like the longbow or javelin, which can be used in conjunction with a Greatsword to create a versatile and lethal character.
Effective tactics for using a Greatsword in combat include careful positioning and target selection, while strategies for maximizing its potential include combining it with magic or using it in conjunction with other weapons.
FAQS
How Does My Character Use A Greatsword Effectively?
To use a Greatsword effectively, your character needs to focus on positioning and timing. It’s important to position yourself in a way that allows you to strike your targets without leaving yourself vulnerable to counterattacks.
Timing is also crucial, as you’ll need to choose the right moment to strike with the Greatsword’s powerful attacks. Additionally, you should consider using the Greatsword in conjunction with other weapons or magical abilities to maximize its potential in combat.
Can I combine a Greatsword with other weapons in combat?
Yes, some strategies involve using a Greatsword in conjunction with other weapons, such as a shield or a versatile weapon like a Longsword.
How Strong Does My Character Need To Be To Lift A Greatsword?
Typically, a character needs a Strength score of at least 15 to wield a Greatsword effectively, but this can vary depending on the character’s size, proficiency with martial weapons, and any feats or abilities that enhance their strength.
It’s also important to note that even if a character meets the strength requirements, using a Greatsword effectively in combat requires proper training, technique, and experience.
What are some limitations of using a Greatsword in 5e?
Limitations of using a Greatsword include its weight and size, which can make it difficult to use in tight spaces or against smaller opponents, and its two-handed requirement, which limits your options for using a shield or other secondary weapon.
Can I use a Greatsword with one hand?
What feats do people recommend for Greatsword users?
Recommended feats for Greatsword users include Great Weapon Master, Polearm Master, and Sentinel.
