New D&D Class Changes Shake up the Tabletop RPG
A raft of new Dungeons and Dragons class changes has just arrived, sparking excitement and anticipation among players of the popular tabletop RPG. Available in PDF format on D&D Beyond, this update is being presented for player feedback to make necessary tweaks ahead of the launch of new core rulebooks in 2024. The focus of this update is on the Barbarian, Fighter, Sorcerer, Warlock, and Wizard classes, which were notably absent from the last rules playtest. Although these class changes are not finalized and may undergo further alterations during playtesting, they provide a significant indication of how these options might function in the future.
Perhaps the most notable change in this update revolves around spells. In previous playtests, players had access to a wide range of magic, regardless of their class. For example, a Bard could use the Arcane, Divine, or Primal spell lists. However, these changes have been revised, as they made certain classes feel less distinctive. Game architect Jeremy Crawford explained that while the previous updates worked well for some classes, like the ranger gaining access to the entire Primal list, it tended to dilute the identity of other classes.
To provide a comprehensive overview of what is different compared to the current Dungeons and Dragons books, here is a breakdown of the important class changes below:
Barbarians: Alongside a new subclass called ‘Path of the World Tree,’ which allows players to travel along the roots to different planes, Barbarians now hit harder than before. The ‘Reckless Attack’ ability now grants advantage on attacks using Strength until the player’s next turn. This means that opportunity attacks can now benefit from this ability.
Fighters: Considered one of the most reliable classes, Fighters are now better outside of combat. The Second Wind ability can now be used to add a d10 to any failed check, and it is not expended if the player fails again. Additionally, a new ‘Brawler’ subclass has been introduced, focusing on grappling, improvised weapons, and causing chaos among enemies.
Sorcerers: While this class hasn’t undergone significant changes, there are noteworthy alterations. The ‘Innate Sorcery’ feature grants advantage on sorcerer spells, and it increases their Difficulty Class by 1 for a single minute. The unpopular Twinned Spell tweaks have also been discarded, allowing players to target an additional creature with a spell as long as it can be upcasted to hit extra people. Furthermore, players who choose the Wild Magic subclass will find themselves more likely to trigger the Wild Magic Surge table.
Warlocks: After being popular among players, Pact Magic has made a return. The ‘Magical Cunning’ feature allows players to regain half of their Pact Magic spell slots, ensuring they won’t be caught off-guard in a fight. Additionally, patron spells are always prepared, and invocations are now available from the first level.
Wizards: The create and modify spell option, which received mixed reviews, has been removed. However, the ‘Savant’ feature for various subclasses has been modified to grant players more spells when they gain new spell slots.
As 2024 approaches, these playtest changes are beginning to solidify, giving players a clearer vision of how the new rulebooks for one of the best tabletop RPGs will look upon their launch. Unfortunately, the exact release date of these rulebooks remains unknown, so players will have to stay tuned for further updates.
For more recommendations, check out the best board games. You can also continue your adventurous journey with board games and tabletop RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3.
Round-up of today’s best deals: [not specified]