StartPlaying logo
Dungeons & Dragons 5e

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

Details

4-6 Players
d20
5th Edition

Themes

Fantasy
High Fantasy

Release Date

Originally Published: 1974, 5th Edition Released: 2014, 5th Edition Updated: 2024

Dungeons & Dragons 5e Reviews (103)

See what other Game Masters and players are saying about Dungeons & Dragons 5e

Jeff: The Kind & Benevolent DM avatar

Jeff: The Kind & Benevolent DM

New review

Ran 198 sessions

What can I say about 5e that hasn't already been said? The best part about the system is the marketing, and it's ability to draw new players in. It's clunky, overly complex at time, and wildly unbalanced. First party adventures are poorly written and require an insane amount of editing and homebrew to balance. My biggest complaint though, is that 5e is marketed as "easy to learn" when it really isn't. If I were to recommend a high fantasy TTRPG, 5e would be very low on my list.

Dam  avatar

Dam

New review

Ran 22 sessions

DnD 5e set a new standard for ease of use, layout, GM-friendly design and player approachability when it came out, and it shows in it's popularity. DnD 5e set a new standard in the TTRPG space, forcing other systems to try harder and it deserves much of the praise it gets. By no means perfect, I think few systems manage to give the same sense of comprehensive rules while not bogging the game down with complication as DnD 5e does. In saying that, I do believe over the past few years there has been a trend in a bad direction. From subclasses that has not been balanced to modules and expansion books with less content or just necessary rules missing, I cannot say it is still at the same standard that it was even 5 years ago, but if people want to play with magic, weapons and want to do it without spending hours learning rules, there are few better systems than DnD 5e.

The GameBastard avatar

The GameBastard

New review

Ran 1 sessions

Arguably the best iteration of Dungeons & Dragons and certainly the most popular, 5th Edition (2014 or 2024) provides players and GMs with a terrific tool for telling awesome, heroic, adventurous tales. Whether you're exploring the Forgotten Realms, flying through the Astral Plane, or venturing even farther afield in weirder realms, this system has got you.

Damien avatar

Damien

New review

Ran 86 sessions

As a Game Master with over 30 years of experience, I was excited to dive into the 2024 version of Dungeons & Dragons, and I must say, it has exceeded all my expectations. This iteration feels like a true celebration of what makes tabletop role-playing games so enchanting, while also incorporating fresh and innovative elements that breathe new life into the game. One of the standout features is the streamlined ruleset. The designers have managed to simplify the mechanics without sacrificing depth, making it easier for both new players and veterans alike to pick up and enjoy. The clarity in the rules enhances the flow of gameplay, allowing for more immersive storytelling and less time spent looking up rules. The character customization options are absolutely fantastic. The expanded options for backgrounds, subclasses, and races provide even more avenues for players to express their creativity. I’ve seen my players come up with unique characters that not only fit within the world but also bring a richness to the narrative. The diversity of playstyles encouraged by this flexibility has made each session feel fresh and exciting. The new campaign settings introduced in this version are nothing short of inspiring. They offer a variety of rich lore and themes that allow us to explore different narratives and challenge our players in novel ways. Whether it’s traversing hauntingly beautiful realms or delving into dark and mysterious corners of the multiverse, there’s something for everyone in this edition. I also appreciate the emphasis on collaborative storytelling. The mechanics that support shared world-building and highlight player agency encourage everyone at the table to contribute to the story, fostering a sense of teamwork that I think is crucial in any RPG. My players have never felt more involved in the creation of the world around them, and watching their excitement grow as they invest in their characters and the plot is a joy to behold. In terms of art and presentation, the visual aspects of the 2024 version are stunning. The artwork vibrantly brings the worlds to life, inspiring players and GMs alike. The quality of the rulebooks enhances the overall experience, making it not just a game but a beautiful artifact that we enjoy referencing. Overall, the 2024 version of Dungeons & Dragons has reignited my passion for tabletop gaming. It balances nostalgia with innovation, ensuring that it appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. I can't recommend it enough to anyone looking to embark on epic adventures with friends. Whether you're a seasoned GM or just starting out, this edition is truly a treasure, and I’m excited to see where our stories take us next!

BearlyDM avatar

BearlyDM

New review

Ran 5 sessions

D&D is that system that everyone starts out on. It's accessible and easy to learn but still have some fancy tricks up it's sleeve if you are an established player. I love running fifth and 2024 editions for new and existing players, the joys of roleplay can no be understated.

Jeremiah | The Direpug Storyteller avatar

Jeremiah | The Direpug Storyteller

New review

Ran 30 sessions

Ah, dear and sweet Dungeons and Dragons fifth edition, aka DnD Next, aka D&D 2014, aka D&D 5e. When this came out the culture was right in the middle of Game of Thrones fever, the MCU was just getting started, and we were just finishing up franchises like Underworld and the Hobbit. Critical Role, Stranger Things, and D&D's rise in popularity was just around the corner! I loved running D&D 5e, and the more I learned about the core system the more I enjoyed it. The key, for me, was limiting the Player tools to strictly the contents of the Core Rulebook so that they would discover that pretty much *everything* in D&D 5e revolves around utilizing the Spells, especially in higher level play. Alas, just like editions before it (except 4e, which was murdered by snobbery) 5e is dying a slow death by bloat and "what-do-you-mean?-WotC-said-buy-books-and-D&DBeyond-so-i-get-to-play-whatever" type of mentality. While D&D 2024/5.5/whatever they want to call it makes a valiant attempt at correcting the ship, the brand-based greed of "jk, just include everything you want from 2014" destroyed all of that goodwill of a reset. I run it because people know it, its popular, and it does a lot of things well in an RPG (until it doesnt...). But personally, all things being equal, I'd rather play Pathfinder.

adventure party

Learn to play

Dungeons & Dragons

Join an online one-shot adventure run by a professional Dungeon Master hand picked for being perfect for new players!

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 Maps

Tom 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 Maps

Venatus 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 Maps

Heroic 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 Maps

Dungeons & 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 Art

Wylie 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 Art

Ekaterina 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 Art

Justin 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 Art

Frequently asked questions about Dungeons & Dragons 5e

Popular Dungeons & Dragons 5e adventures

Curse of Strahd

The vampire Count Strahd von Zarovich, one of D&D’s most iconic villains, is the undisputed master of his hidden domain of Barovia. While his reign of terror breaks the spirits of his subjects, he himself is a prisoner; Barovia is a demiplane, a pocket dimension which traps both the vampire and his victims, to Strahd to possess, enthrall, or dispose of as he sees fit. Perhaps the heroes who now wander into its mists will slay Strahd and free Barovia once and for all… or perhaps they will simply die, just like all who have come before. Curse of Strahd is a gothic horror adventure module for the fifth edition of Dungeons & Dragons. Based on the classic Ravenloft by Laura and Tracy Hickman, Strahd revamps the beloved adventure with tons of new NPCs, locations, and a full history of the dark lord Strahd himself. It’s a good example of a “sandbox” or open-world adventure; while Barovia’s borders trap the heroes, there’s nothing stopping them from exploring wherever they like, and deadly danger can appear anywhere. As such, players need to play smart and be cautious, as even the devilish vampire himself can show up whenever he likes to torment them. The adventure begins with a divinatory card reading that can completely randomize the locations of important characters and treasures, so the module can even be replayed without retreading too much old ground. Heroes will need to gather allies, grow in strength, and ultimately know their enemy to resist Strahd’s charms and temptations and put him in the ground for good!

Explore Dungeons & Dragons 5e Classes

Artificer image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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 image

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.

Similar game systems to Dungeons & Dragons 5e

Find a Dungeons & Dragons 5e group and Start Playing today!

Looking for a group to play Dungeons & Dragons 5e online? Find a group run by a professional game master. Search for games by day, time, and experience and start playing Dungeons & Dragons 5e today!