Arms of Hadar DnD 5e: Mechanics and Guide

Spell Description:

You invoke the power of Hadar, the Dark Hunger. Tendrils of dark energy erupt from you and batter all creatures within 10 feet of you. Each creature in that area must make a Strength saving throw.

On a failed save, a target takes 2d6 necrotic damage and can’t take reactions until its next turn. On a successful save, the creature takes half damage, but suffers no other effect. 

At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the damage increases by 1d6 for each slot level above 1st.

	1st level	5th level	7th level	9th level
Damage Dice	2d6	6d6	8d6	10d6
Minimum Damage	2	6	8	10
Average Damage	6.5	18.5	24.5	30.5
Maximum Damage	12	36	48	60

What Is Arms of Hadar?

Arms of Hadar is a 1st-level Conjuration spell from the Warlock spell list. It conjures the dark energy of Hadar all around you, dealing Necrotic damage to all creatures within 10 feet of you.

A creature who takes the full damage of the spell will also be prevented from taking reactions until their next turn.

Who Can Cast Arms of Hadar?

Arms of Hadar is a Warlock specialty spell, and Warlocks are the only casters who get the spell at 1st level. Bards can take the spell with their Magical Secrets feature, available to all Bards by 10th level

When and Where Should I Cast Arms of Hadar?

Arms of Hadar is a spell best used in low-level fights. Though its effect is beneficial, it lacks the innate firepower of higher-level spells. It will usually fall off in favor of more efficient spells for the Warlock’s limited spell slot pool.

It will see the best use from the Pact of the Blade Warlocks, who will be up in the front lines of combat with their pact weapon. It has no innate ability to protect an ally from its effect, and players should be mindful of their positioning when using it.

Why Should I Take Arms of Hadar?

At low levels, Arms of Hadar is quite helpful. It provides decent damage and a little bit of lockdown to the caster for a low-level spell. It can be utilized effectively to get the Warlock out of a scary situation.

However, its low damage dice value and effect are simply not worth upcasting it at higher levels. So it’s better slotted out for a more efficient spell.

Alternatives to Arms of Hadar

• Sword Burst
• Earth Tremor

Common Questions About Arms of Hadar

Does Arms of Hadar push enemies?

No. Arms of Hadar has no displacement effect.

Is Arms of Hadar a reaction?

No. Arms of Hadar requires one action to cast and resolve the spell’s effect.

Can you use Haste with Arms of Hadar?

No. Arms of Hadar is not a weapon attack.

Is Arms of Hadar a Bonus Action?

No. Arms of Hadar requires 1 action to cast and resolve the spell’s effect.