Dungeons & Dragons 5e
Dungeons & Dragons 5e is the most popular tabletop role-playing game on the market. With its simplified rules, diverse settings, and player-driven customizability, it’s easy to see why! Perhaps you’ve dreamed of slinging arrows like Legolas, crushing enemies like Conan, or attacking angry chickens like Link—you can make that a reality in D&D 5e! There are three main aspects to a game of D&D: combat, exploration, and roleplay. Different games will feature different balances of these depending on how the people like to play but it’s up to you and your Dungeon Master (DM) to craft a world that you love! Whether it’s the Forgotten Realms, Critical Role’s Wildemount/Exandria, your own steampunk-themed world where wizards ride dinosaurs, or anything in between—your imagination truly is the limit!
Originally created by Wizards of the Coast
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Dungeons & Dragons 5e Reviews (96)
See what other Game Masters and players are saying about Dungeons & Dragons 5e
I've been playing Dungeons & Dragons since 1980, and throughout the decades, I've seen the game evolve into something truly special. D&D 5th Edition (5e) is, without a doubt, the most accessible and well-balanced version yet, seamlessly blending deep storytelling, engaging mechanics, and limitless creative freedom. At its core, 5e captures the true spirit of tabletop roleplaying: player-driven narratives and dynamic, immersive worlds. The streamlined rules allow new players to jump in without feeling overwhelmed while still providing enough depth for seasoned adventurers to sink their teeth into intricate character builds and tactical combat. The beauty of this edition lies in its ability to foster collaboration—whether you're a first-time player or a veteran dungeon delver, the game welcomes all with open arms. As a Dungeon Master, I appreciate how 5e prioritizes storytelling and character development over rigid mechanics. It encourages improvisation and roleplaying, allowing players to craft their own paths rather than being railroaded through predefined scripts. The balance of roleplay and combat is flexible, making it easy to tailor each session to the group's preferences. Personally, I lean heavily into storytelling, weaving character backstories into the world, and D&D 5e makes this process seamless with its simple yet powerful mechanics. One of my favorite aspects of 5e is its ability to create a welcoming and inclusive environment at the table. Whether you're a family looking to embark on a lighthearted adventure, a newcomer eager to explore fantasy realms, or a veteran seeking dark, horror-themed storytelling, this edition provides the tools to craft unforgettable experiences. At my table, discussion and metagaming are not only allowed but encouraged, ensuring that every session is a collaborative effort where players feel heard and engaged. Mechanically, the system's balance between simplicity and customization is near-perfect. From the advantage/disadvantage mechanic that keeps the game moving smoothly to the flexible spellcasting system and diverse character options, everything feels intuitive yet rewarding. The house rules I enjoy implementing, such as allowing Champion Fighters to crit on an 18 instead of a 19, only serve to enhance the experience rather than complicate it. Ultimately, Dungeons & Dragons 5e is more than just a game—it's a gateway to unforgettable storytelling, camaraderie, and shared adventures. It provides an opportunity for players to step into the shoes of heroes, villains, and everything in between, shaping their own fates in ways only limited by their imagination. My goal as a DM has always been to ensure that players walk away from my games feeling that their time was well spent, and 5e gives me all the tools I need to make that happen. If you're looking for a roleplaying system that prioritizes fun, creativity, and accessibility without sacrificing depth, D&D 5e is the gold standard. Whether you're a veteran of the game or picking up your first set of dice, this edition offers an experience worth every moment at the table.
To be honest, I started DM'ing D&D in 1980 and loved it throughout the last 45 years. Granted, some editions were better than others, but 5e has proven to be the most satisfying. To DM, you MUST MUST MUST have the proper attitude. You tell a story, then present situations that challenge your players to make choices. If they are familiar with the game mechanics, their character and the obstacle they face, they should have a 90% chance to resolve it in their favor. I have had a great time doing this with 5e. With the advent of 5e 2024, the mechanics are better presented and easier to both understand and adjudicate. The wild exploits of 2014 have been reduced and what was used to give players more options have been reciprocated for the things these players now face, in both combatants and obstacles. I continue to enjoy DM'ing D&D 2024 here in StartPlaying,games and look forward to continuing for a number of years yet. Oh, while it may not be as popular, I have used Fantasy Grounds as my VTT of choice and have seen no real good reason to use another. Personal preference. I do not get a lot of interest from players to use FG, but the ones I do get are seldom disappointed.
I've been playing DND for decades, from 3E all the way now to the latest version, and I've never felt more like DND has become more inclusive to new players and old players to form a connection and enjoy a game of collaboration and storytelling. It's a beautiful escape from Reality and made some life-long friends along the way.
The system that started it all, it claims to be the best and the simplest for starting. false, DnD has far too much in it's engine and much of it is just junk or clutter. For brand new TTRPG players it is overwhelming and will lead to burn out. DnD does okay for semi-tactical combat, but it does nothing particularly great. just look at the number of people seeking to speed up or streamline combat to understand how much of a slog combat in DnD can be. if you are seeking to play a TTRPG for the very first time, honestly avoid DnD. better systems are out their for a first time player, Cairn, Knave, Nimble 2e, Shadowdark all spring to mind as simple systems that teach players the concept of a TTRPG. If you want something that runs specific genres, sure you can homebrew DnD till it's unrecognizable or you can play other systems. in short - DnD is well known and marketed sure, but it's clunky, not user friendly, (especially for brand new or player with lives too busy to sit down and learn the classes) its combat is slow and dull, (to the point the vast majority of the community are trying to homebrew the system to be simpler) and it tries so hard to be the 'go to' ttrpg system and claims to be perfect for any genre that it becomes awful for all genres compared to others.
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How to play D&D 5e
The core mechanic of Dungeons and Dragons is rolling a 20-sided die, adding bonuses and modifiers from your character’s abilities, and trying to beat a target number. Players build their characters by choosing a fantastical species, class, abilities, skills, equipment, and magic spells, then embark on adventures to advance their wealth and power. D&D also has a robust tactical combat system for fighting monsters and other adversaries, plus rules for delving dungeons and exploring the wilderness.
Dungeons & Dragons 5e map makers
Cze and Peku
Cze and Peku are well-known in the TTRPG community for their vibrant and highly detailed battle maps. They specialize in fantasy, sci-fi, and modern settings, offering maps for everything from dungeons to sprawling cities. Their Patreon provides a variety of map styles, along with grid and gridless options, making them perfect for both virtual tabletops and print. With frequent updates, they’re a go-to for immersive game experiences.
Explore MapsTom Cartos
Tom Cartos is a renowned creator of highly detailed, multi-level battlemaps for tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons. His work enhances gameplay by providing immersive environments that captivate players. Tom offers a diverse range of maps, including fantasy and modern settings, available through his website and Patreon. Patreon supporters gain access to weekly map sets, asset packs, and monthly adventures, with higher tiers offering additional benefits such as DungeonDraft integration and limited commercial licensing.
Explore MapsVenatus Maps
Venatus Maps specializes in creating clean, modular battle maps for virtual tabletops. Their work covers a wide range of environments, from haunted forests to ancient ruins, with meticulous attention to detail. Venatus Maps also offers map packs designed for specific adventures, making it easier to plug them into existing campaigns.
Explore MapsHeroic Maps
Heroic Maps delivers high-quality, printable battlemaps that cater to both fantasy and sci-fi settings. Known for their versatility, Heroic Maps provide a mix of atmospheric dungeons, vivid landscapes, and detailed interiors. Their offerings include modular designs that can be pieced together for expansive settings, perfect for GMs looking for flexibility in map design.
Explore MapsDungeons & Dragons 5e community artists
Tyler Jacobson
Tyler Jacobson is a renowned fantasy artist whose work has graced the covers of several D&D 5th Edition books, including the 2024 Player's Handbook. His dynamic and detailed illustrations capture the essence of D&D's expansive universe.
Explore ArtWylie Beckert
Wylie Beckert is known for her intricate and atmospheric artwork. She contributed the alternate cover art for the 2024 Player's Handbook, showcasing her unique style that adds depth and intrigue to the D&D world.
Explore ArtEkaterina Burmak
Ekaterina Burmak is a Ukrainian artist celebrated for her vibrant and detailed illustrations. She provided the cover art for "Light of Xaryxis," a component of the "Spelljammer: Adventures in Space" boxed set, bringing the cosmic adventures of D&D to vivid life.
Explore ArtJustin Gerard
Justin Gerard is a fantasy illustrator whose work has been featured in various D&D publications. He created the cover art for "Boo's Astral Menagerie," another part of the "Spelljammer: Adventures in Space" set, capturing the essence of D&D's diverse creatures.
Explore ArtFrequently asked questions about Dungeons & Dragons 5e
Explore Dungeons & Dragons 5e Classes
Artificer
Why wait for magic items when you can build your own? The Artificer makes use of tools and science to make magic. This gives you a grab bag of abilities from healing to damage dealing to quickly making a necessary tool. Artificers can enchant normal items to take on magical properties, outfitting their team with powered-up gear or giving themselves a fantasy Iron Man suit.
Barbarian
This one’s for those who love to play the undying tank in video games. Barbarians use their rage to perform great feats of strength and halve incoming damage. You can also channel the protection of the world tree, bond with animals, or just kick butt like Grog from Vox Machina. It’s a simple but rewarding playstyle, one that’s perfect for new players who don’t want to get into the complexities of magic.
Bard
Your inner theatre kid probably brought you to the Bard. This class uses a variety of performance styles to cast spells and inspire other characters. Let your imagination run wild as you unleash your power through dance, song, spirit calling, or sword dancing, to name a few. You’ll be charming enough to talk your way out of a fight, but tricky enough to hinder opponents once the fists start flying.
Cleric
MMO players might see Cleric and think dedicated healer, but that’s not the case. While a Cleric can harness powerful healing magic, their full suite of abilities depend on their god. As such, they can wield damaging radiance, craft illusions bestowed by trickster gods, or become the hammer of a war deity. Clerics end up with a nice balance of damage, utility, and sturdiness.
Druid
When you gotta have an animal companion (or twenty) in every game, Druid is for you. Druids draw upon nature’s fury to heal allies, bind enemies, and transform into animals themselves. You can also summon a pet or many deadly pets at higher levels. Become a feral freedom fighter by playing a Druid.
Fighter
If your power fantasy is being the big guy with a big sword, look no further than Fighter. This classic DnD class gives you all the weapons and straightforward rules for using them. Just hit the bad guys a lot. If you want to get tactical, some Fighters can use fancy maneuvers or magic. Whether you want to be swift like Legolas, strong like Guts from Berserk, or versatile like Link from Legend of Zelda, Fighter’s got you covered.
Monk
The martial arts fantasy is alive and well in the Monk. While Fighters often rely on heavy armor and lots of weapons, the Monk is meant to move swiftly and strike with many blows. DnD Monks wield an inner power that’s not quite magic but still lets you perform all sorts of gravity-defying maneuvers. As more abilities unlock, you can become a shadowy assassin, heal with your hands, or wield all four elements like the Avatar.
Paladin
The image of a knight in shining armor is iconic to medieval fantasy, and the Paladin delivers with magical flair. They wear armor like the Fighter and can heal like the Cleric, but pack an extra punch with their signature smite. This attack lights your weapon up with divine power and lets you roll extra dice which always feels nice. You can design your Paladin as a holy warrior of justice, guardian of nature, or tortured warrior of vengeance.
Ranger
Become a lone warrior of the wilds, a wandering blade that protects the fringes of society from evil. The Ranger commands nature magic with pure survival skill to guide the party on long journeys. In battle, they wield weapons with precision to hunt down targets. With level ups, you can boost your Ranger’s abilities with fey powers, shadow magic, or give them a beast companion.
Rogue
A good stealth character can tear enemies apart from the shadows or discover secrets that stop the battle before it even begins. The Rogue is where you go to get that fantasy. You can choose from a variety of skills to customize your Rogue, such as poisoning your blades to become an assassin, learning magic for illusions, or just being a crafty thief.
Sorcerer
The Sorcerer class leans into the glass cannon build popular in video games. Their health is on the lower side and they don’t wear armor, but they cast some of the most powerful spells in the game. Sorcerers also have magical mutations that let you empower your spells beyond those of other spellcasters. You also get to choose the source of your magic, be it eldritch mystery, pure chaos, or the blood of dragons.
Warlock
If you like your magic creepy and mysterious, check out the Warlock. These characters get magic from a patron, which can range from a demonic pact to an unknowable elder god. This unique approach to magic grants warlocks a few spells that they specialize greatly in. When a Warlock takes their turn in combat, everyone notices. Warlocks are also fantastic for roleplay as they have a built-in storyline with their patron.
Wizard
The original spellcaster, and the one who gets all the spells. Wizards don’t get divine help or a mysterious patron, so they have to learn magic the old-fashioned way: by reading. This allows Wizards to gain more spells than any other class as long as they can find books. Wizards can come to the rescue in almost any situation, as their magic can save allies, fool enemies, boost physical abilities, learn secrets, and blow things up.