Maximizing Damage Output in Dungeons Dragons 5e: Melee vs. Ranged Strategies for Level 5 Characters

When creating a level 5 character in Dungeons Dragons 5e (DD 5e), the potential for high damage output can significantly impact gameplay. Whether a character specializes in melee or ranged attacks, several strategies can enhance their damage per round (DPR).

Melee Damage Output: The Most Destructive Fighter Battle Master

One of the most devastating melee builds at this level is the Fighter Battle Master class. This character benefits significantly from a strategic combination of feat choices, weapon selection, and combat maneuvers. Let's break down an optimal setup and the damage calculations for this character.

Equipment and Race Selection

Class: Fighter Battle Master

Race: Optimal races include those that grant bonuses to Strength or Dexterity, such as a Half-Orc (extra critical hit damage).

Weapon: Choose a Greatsword with a 2d6 damage die. A weapon like a longsword (1d8) or a weapon with a high damage die can also work effectively.

Combat Mechanics and Extra Actions

The Action Surge feature allows for an additional action on your turn, doubling the potential for attacks. Additionally, Superiority Dice can be used to increase hit chances and damage when using maneuvers such as Precision Attack.

Example Calculation for Melee Damage Output

Attack Action: 2 attacks using Extra Attack. Action Surge: 2 additional attacks. Total Attacks: 4 attacks per turn. Damage Calculation: Each Greatsword attack causes 2d6 damage. Average Damage per Attack: 3 (assuming a 3 Strength modifier) 7 (average 2d6) 10 average damage per attack. Total Damage: 40 average damage (10 per attack x 4 attacks).

Critical Hits and Additional Damage

With a Half-Orc's Savage Attacks ability, there is an increased chance of landing a critical hit, which deals an additional weapon die of damage. Assuming a critical hit on one of the attacks:

Attack Damage: 3d6 3 (average 10.5) 3 (weapon die) 13.5 average damage per attack. Total Damage with Critical: 13.5 for the crit attack plus 30 (10 per attack x 3 remaining attacks) 43.5 average damage per round.

Ranged Damage Output: The Assassin Rogue’s Precision

The Rogue Assassin class excels at ranged damage, especially if they can land a Sneak Attack with a Longbow.

Weapon and Key Features

Class: Rogue Assassin

Weapon: A Longbow with a 1d8 damage die.

Key Features:

Sneak Attack: At level 5, deals 3d6 damage. Assassinate: If the target is surprised, the damage is doubled.

Example Calculation for Ranged Damage Output

Attack Action: One attack with a longbow, applying Sneak Attack if the target is surprised. Damage Calculation: Base damage from a Longbow is 1d8 (average 4.5) 3 (Dexterity modifier) 7.5. Sneak Attack: 3d6 (average 10.5). Total Damage: 7.5 10.5 18. Double Damage on Surprise: If the target is surprised, the damage is doubled: 7.5 x 2 21 36 average damage.

Conclusion: Comparing Melees and Ranges

In summary, the Fighter Battle Master can achieve up to 40 to 43.5 average damage per round with Action Surge and critical hits. On the other hand, the Rogue Assassin can deal up to 36 average damage per round if the target is surprised. These calculations assume successful hits and do not account for any additional effects from spells, magic items, or environmental factors that could further increase the damage output.

Both melee and ranged builds have their unique strengths, making the selection of your character's role largely dependent on the campaign's dynamics and personal preference.