Goolock Multiclass

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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06-01-2025

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The Goolock, a delightful portmanteau of Warlock and Rogue, is a popular multiclass combination in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition. This build leverages the strengths of both classes, creating a character who's both deadly in combat and subtly adept at subterfuge. However, optimizing a Goolock build requires careful consideration of several factors. Let's delve into the specifics.

Understanding the Synergy

The core synergy between Warlock and Rogue lies in their complementary abilities. The Warlock provides potent offensive spells and utility options, while the Rogue offers expertise, bonus action attacks, and crucial skills for infiltration and information gathering. This combination excels at dealing significant damage from the shadows, utilizing spells to set up devastating sneak attacks.

Warlock's Contribution

The Warlock contributes the following:

• Spellcasting: Access to powerful spells like Eldritch Blast, Hex, and Misty Step significantly enhances damage output and battlefield control.
• Invocations: Invocations like Agonizing Blast, Repelling Blast, and Devil's Sight further augment offensive capabilities and survivability.
• Eldritch Blast: This cantrip is the bread and butter of the Goolock build, scaling incredibly well with levels and providing consistent damage.

Rogue's Contribution

The Rogue contributes the following:

• Sneak Attack: This is the cornerstone of the Goolock's damage potential, allowing for devastating extra damage with every successful attack.
• Expertise: Choosing skills like Stealth, Deception, or Persuasion provides a significant advantage in both combat and social situations.
• Extra Skills: Rogues gain a wealth of skills, making them versatile outside of combat.
• Subtlety: The Rogue's abilities make the Goolock build ideal for stealth-based approaches.

Building the Optimal Goolock

The optimal level split for a Goolock is a subject of debate, with no single "best" answer. It often depends on your preferred playstyle and campaign. However, some common approaches include:

• 3 Levels Warlock / X Levels Rogue: This prioritizes early access to powerful Warlock spells and Invocations, followed by maximizing the Rogue's damage and skill proficiencies. This build excels in early-game lethality.

• X Levels Rogue / 3 Levels Warlock: This allows for high skill proficiency and Sneak Attack early on before adding the Warlock's powerful spellcasting. This build focuses on consistent damage and utility.

• Other level splits: Consider other level splits, carefully balancing the strengths of each class to complement your campaign's needs and your own playstyle.

Important Considerations

• Spell Selection: Carefully choose your Warlock spells to complement your Rogue abilities and playstyle. Focus on spells that enhance your damage output or utility.
• Invocation Selection: Choose Invocations that synergize with your build and complement your combat style. Agonizing Blast is almost always a mandatory choice.
• Subclass Selection: Consider the Warlock and Rogue subclasses carefully. Each offers unique abilities that can significantly impact your effectiveness. For example, The Pact of the Blade provides weapon proficiencies useful for the Rogue.

The Goolock is a versatile and powerful build with a high skill ceiling. By carefully considering these factors and tailoring the build to your specific campaign and preferences, you can create a truly effective and enjoyable character. Remember to adjust the build based on your party composition and the challenges you anticipate facing.