How Does Hexblade’s Curse Work in Baldur’s Gate 3?

Learn details about Hexblade’s Curse in Baldur’s Gate 3 and the methods a Hexblade Warlock can use to apply it.

Hexblade Warlock (Image via Larian Studios)
Hexblade Warlock (Image via Larian Studios)

The Hexblade Warlock is perhaps the most powerful subclass introduced with Patch 8 of Baldur’s Gate 3. This is largely thanks to its core subclass ability, Hexblade’s Curse, and how well it synergizes with other tools in the warlock’s arsenal. The Hexblade Warlock’s pact with a sinister entity from the Shadowfell manifests itself in the form of a sentient magical weapon. The warlock can afflict enemies with Hexblade’s Curse by striking them with the bound weapon or through the use of a dedicated ability.

What is Hexblade’s Curse in Baldur’s Gate 3?

Hexblade's Curse (Image via Larian Studios)
Applying Hexblade’s Curse (Image via Larian Studios)

Hexblade’s Curse is a subclass feature exclusive to Hexblade Warlocks that uses a bonus action to apply Hexblade’s Curse on an enemy. The condition lasts for 10 turns; the warlock deals additional damage to the target and gains hit points when it dies.

Additionally, when a living target dies under the Hexblade’s Curse, the warlock can use a reaction to summon its soul as an Accursed Spectre. The spectre will fight by their side, dealing necrotic damage to enemies and healing its summoner. The player does not directly control it, as it acts autonomously.

Here are some of the key features of Hexblade’s Curse to keep in mind:

  • Unlocked at Level 1.
  • Costs a bonus action.
  • Recharges on a short rest.
  • Lasts 10 turns.
  • Has a range of 18m (60ft).
  • Adds proficiency bonus (2–4) to each damage roll against the target.
  • Lowers the critical hit threshold by 1.
  • Heals the warlock for Warlock level + Charisma modifier (1–19) when the target dies.
  • Summon an Accursed Spectre using a reaction when a living target dies under Hexblade’s Curse.

Applying Hexblade’s Curse Using Bind Hexed Weapon

Bind Hexed Weapon (Image via Larian Studios)
Bind Hexed Weapon (Image via Larian Studios)

In addition to using Hexblade’s Curse as a targeted ability with a bonus action, the condition can also be applied by using Bind Hexed Weapon. When the warlock strikes an enemy with a hexed weapon, Hexblade’s Curse has a chance to apply. The chance is determined by a d20 roll; a result of 17 or higher applies the curse. This amounts to a 20% probability of afflicting the target of a weapon attack with Hexblade’s Curse. The chance remains fixed and isn’t affected by any other modifiers.


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