In Diablo 4, the role of Dexterity as a main stat is often underestimated. The stat is more influential than it appears, especially when comparing weapons with different attributes.
For instance, a Rare crossbow with higher DPS, Critical Strike Damage, and other stats but lower Dexterity was compared to a Legendary crossbow with lower DPS but higher Dexterity.
Surprisingly, the Legendary weapon had a higher overall Attack Power, despite its lower DPS and item power.
What Does Dexterity Do In Diablo 4?
Dexterity is a stat that enhances all classes' ability to dodge attacks by +0.025% per point. Each Dexterity point also boosts critical strike chance by 0.02% for Barbarians and Sorceresses, and Rogues gain 0.1% skill damage per Dexterity point. Dexterity is the main stat for Rogues as it directly impacts skill damage, which is crucial for maximizing damage output.
| Class | Dexterity Benefit | Per Point of Dexterity |
|---|---|---|
| Barbarian | Critical Strike Chance | +0.02% |
| Barbarian | Dodge Chance | +0.025% |
| Druid | Dodge Chance | +0.025% |
| Rogue | Skill Damage | +0.1% |
| Rogue | Dodge Chance | +0.025% |
| Necromancer | Dodge Chance | +0.025% |
| Sorceress | Critical Strike Chance | +0.02% |
| Sorceress | Dodge Chance | +0.025% |
Best Usage of Dexterity for All Class
Dexterity extends beyond just contributing to Attack Power. Dexterity offers various benefits depending on the class you're playing, making it a versatile and valuable stat to invest in. Here's a breakdown of how Dexterity impacts different classes:
Barbarian
- Critical Strike Chance: Each point in Dexterity grants a 0.02% increase in Critical Strike Chance.
- Dodge Chance: Additionally, each point offers a 0.025% chance to dodge attacks.
Druid
- Dodge Chance: For Druids, each point in Dexterity provides a 0.025% chance to dodge incoming attacks.
Rogue
- Skill Damage: Rogues gain a 0.1% increase in skill damage per point in Dexterity.
- Dodge Chance: Like other classes, Rogues also benefit from a 0.025% chance to dodge attacks per point.
Necromancer
- Dodge Chance: Necromancers gain a 0.025% chance to dodge attacks for each point in Dexterity.
Sorceress
- Critical Strike Chance: Sorceresses receive a 0.02% increase in Critical Strike Chance per point.
- Dodge Chance: They also gain a 0.025% chance to dodge attacks per point.
Dexterity's Impact on Attack Power
Here is an example where a rogue has 700 Dexterity and decides to switch to a weapon that reduces it to 650. This change would drop the main stat damage multiplication from 70% to 65%, resulting in a reduction of approximately 7.1% in damage.
| Attribute | Weapon A | Weapon B | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dexterity | 700 | 650 | -7.1% |
| Main Stat Damage Multiplication | 70% | 65% | -7.1% |
| DPS | 1100 | 1300 | +18.2% |
| Damage to Vulnerable Targets | N/A | 10% | +10% |
Let's say the new weapon increases the DPS from 1100 to 1300, which is an 18.2% increase in DPS. Additionally, the weapon has an affix that increases damage to vulnerable targets by 10%.
In this scenario, even though the player loses 7.1% damage due to the reduction in Dexterity, the 18.2% increase in DPS and the additional 10% damage to vulnerable targets more than compensate for the loss. Therefore, the new weapon would be the better choice, highlighting the importance of considering Dexterity in the context of other stats and modifiers.
This example demonstrates that Dexterity can have a significant impact on Attack Power and overall effectiveness. Rogues should consider not just the raw DPS or other stats but also the Dexterity stat when choosing their equipment.
Dexterity's True Damage Output
While DPS and other damage modifiers are essential, Dexterity offers a more holistic view of a weapon's potential. It's not just about the immediate damage a weapon can deal; it's about the consistent, long-term damage output. Dexterity ensures that every strike, whether critical or not, contributes significantly to the overall damage dealt.
The Attack Power rating, though a useful guide, might not capture the full picture. It often doesn't account for the nuanced interplay between Dexterity and other damage modifiers. Players should consider not just the Attack Power rating but also the underlying stats, especially Dexterity, to gauge a weapon's true potential.
Use Dexterity to Maximize Damage Output
While situational damage modifiers like Critical Strike Damage and Vulnerable are vital, Dexterity provides a consistent boost to damage output. It acts as a foundation upon which other stats can build, ensuring that the character remains powerful in various combat scenarios.
To maximize damage output, players should aim for a harmonious balance between Dexterity and other damage modifiers. While it's tempting to prioritize one over the other, a well-rounded approach will yield the best results. Understanding how each stat interacts and complements the others is key to building a formidable character.