Eldritch Blast is the Warlock identity cantrip. A beam of crackling energy is a ranged spell attack dealing force damage — and as you level, you fire extra beams that can each target the same creature or different ones.
This Eldritch Blast 5E guide covers beam count, Agonizing Blast math, and common invocations that reshape the cantrip.
- Spell Level
- Cantrip
- Spell Type
- Evocation
- Casting Time
- 1 Action
- Range
- 120 feet
- Component Requirements
- Verbal, Somatic
- Duration
- Instantaneous
- Class
- Warlock
How does Eldritch Blast work?
Make a ranged spell attack against a creature within 120 feet. On a hit, the target takes 1d10 force damage.
The cantrip creates more than one beam when you reach higher levels (typically a second beam at 5th, a third at 11th, a fourth at 17th — confirm in your source). You can direct the beams at the same target or different ones, making a separate attack roll for each.
Agonizing Blast changes everything
The Agonizing Blast invocation adds your Charisma modifier to each beam’s damage. That is why Warlock cantrip DPR scales so hard compared to other classes’ cantrips.
If you play a blast-focused Warlock, take Agonizing Blast early.
Other invocations that matter
- Repelling Blast — push creatures on a hit (great for pits and Spirit Guardians setups when multiclassing)
- Eldritch Spear / Spell Sniper combos — stretch range for kite play
- Grasp of Hadar — pull (campaign-dependent availability)
Targeting tips
- Split beams to finish multiple bloody enemies.
- Stack beams into a boss when you need a spike.
- Force damage rarely cares about nonmagical weapon resistances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can each beam crit separately?
Yes. Each beam is its own attack roll, so critical hits are per beam.
Does Hex add damage to every beam?
Yes. Hex’s bonus necrotic damage applies once per hit, so multiple beams each trigger it.
Is Eldritch Blast a Warlock-only spell?
It is on the Warlock list. Other classes need a feature, multiclass, or special option to gain it.
