The Blood Hunter: A Comprehensive Guide to D&D's Hemomancy Class

Introduction

The Blood Hunter, introduced in Matt Mercer's "Critical Role" campaign, is a formidable class that combines martial prowess with the power of blood magic. This guide delves into the intricacies of this unique class, providing everything players need to create and excel as a Blood Hunter.

Class Features

  **Hit Dice:** d10
  **Armor Proficiencies:** Light, medium, shields
  **Weapon Proficiencies:** Simple weapons, martial weapons
  **Saving Throws:** Strength, Dexterity, Constitution
  **Skills:** Choose two from Acrobatics, Animal Handling, Arcana, Athletics, History, Intimidation, Medicine, Nature, Perception, Religion, Sleight of Hand, Stealth, and Survival

Blood Curses

Blood Hunters wield the power of Blood Curses, which enhance their abilities or hinder their foes. Each subclass focuses on a specific curse:

• Order of the Lycan: Werewolf transformations, enhanced senses
• Order of the Mutant: Physical mutations, resistance to disease
• Order of the Profane Soul: Pact with an entity, access to infernal or celestial abilities
• Order of the Ghostslayer: Supernatural sight, ability to harm undead

Crimson Rite

Crimson Rites are self-harming abilities that grant powerful effects in combat. Players can use these rites to heal their allies, deal bonus damage, or gain advantage on saving throws.

Hemocraft

Blood Hunters also possess Hemocraft, a form of blood magic that allows them to manipulate their own blood and that of others. This ability grants access to spells such as:

  **Blood Frenzy:** Gain temporary hit points and attack bonuses
  **Blood Curse:** Bestow penalties on nearby enemies
  **Blood Sacrifice:** Convert hit points into temporary healing for allies

Subclasses

The Blood Hunter offers four distinct subclasses, each with its own unique abilities:

• Order of the Lycan: Focuses on primal savagery and werewolf transformations.
• Order of the Mutant: Embraces physical mutations and adapts to any environment.
• Order of the Profane Soul: Makes a pact with an infernal or celestial entity, gaining supernatural abilities.
• Order of the Ghostslayer: Specializes in hunting undead creatures and gaining knowledge of the supernatural.

Creating a Blood Hunter

To create a Blood Hunter, follow these steps:

1. Choose an Ability Score: Strength or Dexterity should be your primary ability score.
2. Pick a Background: Consider backgrounds that fit well with the Blood Hunter's supernatural nature, such as Acolyte or Outlander.
3. Select a Subclass: Determine which subclass best aligns with your character's concept.
4. Develop Your Character: Flesh out your character's personality, motivations, and backstory.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Blood Curses: Blood Curses are essential to the Blood Hunter's identity. Use them frequently to enhance your abilities.
2. Overusing Crimson Rites: Crimson Rites are powerful but also come at a cost. Use them wisely to avoid self-harm.
3. Focusing Too Much on Hemocraft: Hemocraft is a valuable tool, but don't neglect your martial abilities.
4. Not Roleplaying Your Character: Embrace the Blood Hunter's unique nature and roleplay it accordingly.

How to Step-by-Step Approach

1. Start with Small Crimson Rites: Gradually increase the number and severity of Crimson Rites as your character gains experience.
2. Combine Crimson Rites with Blood Curses: Enhance the effects of Blood Curses by using Crimson Rites at opportune moments.
3. Use Hemocraft Strategically: Identify situations where Hemocraft can provide the most advantage.
4. Experiment with Different Subclasses: Try out different subclasses to find one that best suits your playstyle.

FAQs

1. Can a Blood Hunter heal themselves? Yes, using Crimson Rites and certain Blood Curses.
2. Are Blood Hunters overpowered? While powerful, Blood Hunters rely on careful resource management and self-sacrifice.
3. Can all Blood Hunters become werewolves? Only Blood Hunters of the Order of the Lycan can transform into werewolves.
4. Do Blood Hunters need to drink blood? No, Blood Hunters do not consume blood as part of their abilities.
5. Is the Blood Hunter class official? The Blood Hunter is an unofficial class created by Matt Mercer.
6. Can a Blood Hunter use Hemocraft on other creatures? Yes, but only with their consent or if they are incapacitated.
7. What is the Blood Maledict? The Blood Maledict is a powerful ability that allows Blood Hunters to channel their blood into a curse that can weaken or even kill an enemy.
8. What is the best subclass for a Blood Hunter? The best subclass depends on your playstyle and preferences.

Conclusion

The Blood Hunter is a multifaceted class that offers unique gameplay experiences. By understanding their abilities, avoiding common pitfalls, and embracing their supernatural nature, players can create formidable and memorable Blood Hunters. Remember, the power of blood magic is in your hands – wield it wisely.