Choosing a D&D class: how to decide what to play in Dungeons & Dragons 5E

 

 

 Dungeons & Dragons is a game that offers a wide variety of character classes to choose from, each with its own unique abilities and playstyle. With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which class to play. In this article, we'll explore some tips for choosing the right class for your next Dungeons & Dragons 5E campaign.

Consider Your Playstyle

The first thing to consider when choosing a class is your playstyle. Do you prefer to charge into combat and deal massive damage, or would you rather stay back and control the battlefield with spells? Do you enjoy sneaking around and dealing damage from the shadows, or would you rather heal allies and protect them from harm? Each class has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to choose one that fits your preferred playstyle.

Think About the Group Dynamic

Another important factor to consider is the group dynamic. If your group already has a fighter and a barbarian, for example, it might be a good idea to choose a class that fills a different role, such as a wizard or a rogue. This will ensure that the group has a balanced party that can handle a wide variety of challenges.

Consider the Campaign Setting

The campaign setting can also play a role in your choice of class. If the campaign is set in a dark and dangerous dungeon, for example, a fighter or a barbarian might be a good choice, since they excel in combat. If the campaign is set in a magical world filled with arcane mysteries, a wizard or a sorcerer might be a better fit. Consider the setting and the challenges the group is likely to face, and choose a class that will help you overcome those challenges.

Try Something New

Finally, don't be afraid to try something new. If you've always played a fighter or a rogue, for example, consider trying a spellcaster like a wizard or a cleric. Trying out a new class can be a great way to expand your horizons and discover new playstyles that you might not have considered before.

Choosing a class in Dungeons & Dragons 5E can be a difficult decision, but with these tips, you can make an informed choice that fits your playstyle, the group dynamic, and the campaign setting. So, take your time, consider your options, and have fun exploring the many different classes that Dungeons & Dragons has to offer.

What are some common mistakes people make when choosing a class?

Choosing a class in Dungeons & Dragons can be a difficult decision, and there are several common mistakes that people make when trying to decide which class to play. Here are a few examples:

•     Choosing Based on Meta: Some players choose a class solely based on what they believe is the most powerful or effective option, rather than what fits their playstyle or the group dynamic. While it's important to consider the strengths and weaknesses of each class, it's also important to choose one that you enjoy playing and that fits the needs of the group.
•     Not Considering the Campaign Setting: Another common mistake is not considering the campaign setting when choosing a class. For example, if the campaign is set in a world that's heavily focused on magic, it might be a good idea to choose a spellcaster like a wizard or a sorcerer. If the campaign is set in a world that's focused on combat, a fighter or a barbarian might be a better choice.
•     Not Considering the Group Dynamic: It's important to consider the group dynamic when choosing a class. If the group already has several spellcasters, for example, it might be a good idea to choose a class that fills a different role, such as a fighter or a rogue. This will ensure that the group has a balanced party that can handle a wide variety of challenges.
•     Choosing Based on the Wrong Playstyle: Finally, some players choose a class that doesn't fit their preferred playstyle. For example, if you prefer to charge into combat and deal massive damage, a spellcaster might not be the best fit for you. It's important to choose a class that fits your preferred playstyle and that you enjoy playing.

What are some ways to determine if a class fits my preferred playstyle?

Determining if a class fits your preferred playstyle is an important step in choosing a character in Dungeons & Dragons. Here are a few ways to help you determine if a class is a good fit for you:

•     Read Class Descriptions: One of the best ways to determine if a class fits your playstyle is to read the class descriptions in the Dungeons & Dragons Player's Handbook. These descriptions provide a good overview of each class's abilities and playstyle, so you can get a sense of what each class is all about.
•     Try a Test Game: Another way to determine if a class fits your playstyle is to try it out in a test game. Many groups run one-shot games or short campaigns to try out new classes or characters. This can be a great way to get a feel for how a class plays and whether it's a good fit for you.
•     Ask Other Players: If you're playing in a group, it can be helpful to ask other players about their experiences with different classes. They may have insights or advice that can help you make a decision.
•     Consider Your Favorite Video Game Characters: If you're having trouble deciding on a class, consider your favorite video game characters. What classes do they represent? If you enjoy playing as a rogue or a mage in video games, for example, you might enjoy those classes in Dungeons & Dragons as well.
•     Consider Your Favorite Fantasy Tropes: Another way to determine if a class fits your playstyle is to consider your favorite fantasy tropes. Do you enjoy stories about brave knights, powerful wizards, or cunning thieves? If so, there may be a class that fits those tropes that you would enjoy playing.

Which classes are good for beginners?

Ultimately the choice of class depends on the preferences of the player. That being said, some classes are generally considered to be more beginner-friendly due to their straightforward abilities and playstyle. Here are a few examples:

•     Fighter: The fighter is a versatile class that excels in combat, with options for both melee and ranged attacks. The fighter's abilities are straightforward and easy to understand, making it a good choice for beginners who want to focus on combat.
•     Rogue: The rogue is a stealthy class that specializes in sneaking around and dealing massive damage with sneak attacks. While the rogue requires a bit more strategy than the fighter, it can be a good choice for beginners who enjoy a more tactical playstyle.
•     Cleric: The cleric is a holy caster that can heal allies and deal damage to enemies with divine spells. While spellcasting can be a bit more complex than melee combat, the cleric's abilities are easy to understand and can be a great support class for beginners.
•     Paladin: The paladin is a holy warrior that can heal allies and smite enemies with divine power. Like the cleric, the paladin's abilities are easy to understand and can be a great choice for beginners who want to play a support role.