Dead by Daylight: All Killer Powers Explained

Discover the unique powers of every killer in Dead by Daylight, from The Trapper's bear traps to The Artist's Crows.

Dead by Daylight: All Killer Powers Explained — illustration

Introduction to Killer Powers

In Dead by Daylight, each killer possesses a distinct power that significantly shapes their gameplay. Unlike survivors who can begin a trial with various items, killers rely solely on their unique abilities. These powers can be further enhanced by equipping up to two add-ons per trial, which are specific to each killer and can be acquired through the Bloodweb. Understanding these powers is crucial for both playing as and against each killer.

There are currently 31 killers available in Dead by Daylight, each offering a different playstyle and set of abilities. The official Dead by Daylight Wiki is a comprehensive resource, recognized and supported by Behaviour Interactive, providing detailed information on all aspects of the game, including killer powers.

Original Trio Killer Powers

The initial set of killers introduced in Dead by Daylight each have foundational powers that define their approach to hunting survivors.

The Trapper

Evan MacMillan, known as The Trapper, utilizes bear traps as his power. He begins each match with two traps, and an additional six spawn throughout the game. When a survivor steps into one of these traps, they become immobilized. Interestingly, The Trapper himself can also step into his own traps. If he is carrying a survivor when this happens, the survivor will escape. His weapon is a self-made cleaver crafted from metals found in his family’s mine.

The Wraith

Philip Ojomo, or The Wraith, uses a wailing bell as his power. This bell allows him to cloak himself, enabling him to stalk survivors undetected. However, survivors can hear the bell from a distance of up to 24 meters, and a distinct “whoosh” sound is audible from up to 40 meters away. The cloaking effect will dissipate, revealing The Wraith, when he is within 20 meters of a survivor. His weapon is Azarov’s skull, still attached to the spine.

The Hillbilly

Max Thompson Jr., The Hillbilly, wields a chainsaw as his primary power. This grants him a significant burst of speed, allowing him to move at double his normal movement rate. Players must manage an overheat meter when using this power. His weapon of choice is a cattle hammer, effective for slaughtering.

Additional Killer Powers

Beyond the original trio, many other killers have been introduced, each bringing unique and often complex powers to the game.

The Nurse

Sally Smithson, The Nurse, has a power called Spencer’s Last Breath. She was introduced in 2016 as part of The Last Breath Chapter.

The Shape

The Shape’s power is Evil Within.

The Hag

The Hag, whose real name is not provided in the sources, utilizes the Blackened Catalyst as her power.

The Doctor

The Doctor, also unnamed in the provided sources, uses Carter’s Spark as his power.

The Huntress

The Huntress’s power involves Hunting Hatchets.

The Cannibal

Known as The Cannibal, his power is Bubba’s Chainsaw.

The Nightmare

The Nightmare’s power is called Dream Demon.

The Pig

The Pig’s power is Jigsaw’s Baptism.

The Clown

The Clown’s power is The Afterpiece Tonic.

The Spirit

The Spirit’s power is Yamaoka’s Haunting.

The Legion

The Legion’s power is Feral Frenzy.

The Plague

The Plague’s power is Vile Purge.

The Ghost Face

The Ghost Face’s power is Night Shroud.

The Demogorgon

The Demogorgon’s power is Of the Abyss.

The Oni

The Oni’s power is Yamaoka’s Wrath.

The Deathslinger

The Deathslinger’s power is The Redeemer.

The Executioner

The Executioner’s power is Rites of Judgement.

The Blight

The Blight’s power is Blighted Corruption.

The Twins

The Twins’ power is Blood Bond.

The Trickster

The Trickster’s power is not specified in the provided sources.

The Nemesis

The Nemesis’s power is not specified in the provided sources.

The Cenobite

The Cenobite’s power is not specified in the provided sources.

The Artist

Carmina Mora, The Artist, is a newer killer. Her power is not detailed in the provided sources.

FAQ

What is the purpose of killer powers in Dead by Daylight? Killer powers are unique abilities that each killer possesses, influencing their gameplay and how they hunt survivors in a trial.

Can killer powers be upgraded? Yes, killer powers can be enhanced by equipping up to two add-ons per trial. These add-ons are specific to each killer and can be unlocked through the Bloodweb.

Are all killer powers offensive? While many powers are offensive, some also offer utility like stealth (The Wraith) or information gathering.

How many killers are there in Dead by Daylight? As of the provided information, there are 31 killers available in Dead by Daylight.