Worst Classes In D&D 5e – Investment Policy

Summary

The Monk’s limitation in combat and lack of versatility make it a subpar choice in D&D.
Bards may be great in theory, but in practice, they often fall short compared to other classes.
Rogues have become replaceable due to subclasses and feats, making them less essential in gameplay.

Initially, in the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, just three character classes were available: Mage, Fighter, and Thief. Over time, the game has expanded to encompass over twenty distinct classes, with this number growing further based on the specific module being utilized, and when accounting for new subclasses, the total is even more considerable.

In various conversations, additional classes aren’t always beneficial. Some players find certain ones to be repetitive, unhelpful, or dull. While a complex class that requires long-term strategies for gear and Feats might appeal to some, it can deter many others. The most detrimental mistake is creating a class with no clear role, and even flawed builds can still provide enjoyment. However, the following classes are often criticized as among the worst in D&D.

5. Monk

No Weapons, No Armor, No Point

It might sound great on paper, but not so much in tabletop reality

In a game where players appreciate the flexibility in crafting unique characters through weapons and equipment, it’s reasonable to question the purpose of the Monk. Some players might find charm in playing a class that wields martial arts as their primary weapon initially, but over time, the Monk appears to be an excessively simple character with limited depth, making them seem easily replaceable.

A way to rephrase the statement in natural and easy-to-read language could be: The limitations of a Monk can often be circumvented by designing them for a particular role, yet their capabilities largely revolve around healing or dealing damage (DPS), areas where most other classes excel more effectively. While Monk Healers are acceptable, Clerics, Druids, and Paladins generally perform these roles with greater proficiency.

In simpler terms, some specific sub-categories enhance their abilities somewhat, and specific game features such as limited weapon options and Armor Class adjustments can be addressed through specific Skills or Traits. However, it’s questionable why one would still choose to utilize these specialized classes when more versatile ones like Fighters and Rangers can accomplish almost the same tasks.

4. Bard

Sing Through That Melee Strike

When they appear in other RPGs, it’s often as satire

The Bard character was modeled after real-life figures such as the Pied Piper of Hamelin and ancient poet Homer. This concept certainly has an intriguing appeal, and it’s undeniable that music possesses a certain enchantment. However, depicting a character playing music amidst battles can appear somewhat absurd, given its implausibility. One notorious prank by Blizzard Entertainment involved proposing the addition of a Bard class as part of an April Fool’s Day joke.

In a real-life film or book, the Bard is typically an outstanding character, frequently serving as the spokesperson for the group and providing amusing remarks that function as convenient comic relief. However, in a tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG), where the Game Master reads from behind their screen and other players roll dice, such characteristics aren’t usually portrayed.

Games such as Baldur’s Gate 3, which are inspired by Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), enhance the experience with immersive cinematic sequences that are accessible to all players. However, it should be noted that tabletop RPGs (TTRPG) won’t offer these features. Unfortunately, the Bard character is often found to be less effective as a healer or support class, and may lack an engaging background or compelling personality. To make the most out of the Bard character, players might consider combining it with another Charisma-based class such as a Paladin or Warlock. However, if your primary goal is to play a different type of character, you could simply choose a different class initially.

3. Rogue

Lockpicking, And What Else?

They used to be a unique class, but not so much anymore

Originally, every party relied on having a Rogue due to their indispensable skills such as lockpicking, assassination, and stealth. Now, however, with the introduction of subclasses, Feats, and certain magical items, many classes now possess these abilities. As a result, the role once exclusively filled by the Rogue can now be fulfilled by any character who has a high Dexterity and the Sleight of Hand skill.

A character with high dexterity typically deals higher damage per second (DPS), though this is primarily for melee combat these days. However, some players have achieved success with ranged builds for Rogues. If you aim for a ranged build, consider other classes such as Ranger or Fighter that emphasize dexterity over strength instead.

Essentially, this implies that Ranger and Bard characters can assume roles traditionally associated with Rogues. Not only do these classes wield similar weapons, but they also have healing and buffing abilities, which are beyond a Rogue’s capabilities. Moreover, it appears that the spellcasting subclasses in these classes may not be as beneficial, leading one to question why not opt for a Warlock or Wizard instead? In such cases, either multiclass them or choose the Sleight of Hand Feat for additional skills.

2. Ranger

The Perpetual Support Class

Perhaps an example of a class that’s too versatile

This class was influenced by the Rangers from “The Lord of the Rings,” particularly the character Strider who embodies both grittiness and heroism. One of the strengths of this class lies in its association with this beloved high-fantasy saga. While Drizzt Do’Urden, a renowned Drow Ranger, is a main character in popular “D&D” books, not every character gets their own novel series.

As a follower, I find that the Ranger in Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) shares many similarities with the Hunter class from other role-playing games (RPGs), notably in terms of pet management, animal companionship, and weaponry. With an affinity for precision and a knack for strategic planning, one can greatly enhance the effectiveness of this class. However, the allure to invest time in mastering it fades when compared to the Druid or Fighter classes, as they seem to cover much of the same ground with significantly less effort required.

1. Paladin

A Glorified Cleric

Another class lost in the modern frenzy of subclasses and skills overlap

Characters such as Paladins, Barbarians, and Rangers can add excitement to a story, but they might not be as engaging to play compared to others. For instance, the addition of subclasses like Tempest and War for Clerics, enabling them to use bigger weapons and heavy armor, raises questions about the necessity of Paladins. Furthermore, unlike Clerics who can choose a deity, Paladins do not have this option, which seems to diminish an intriguing aspect.

A character class that could simultaneously don armor and self-heal often seemed excessively powerful in the game context. For decades, every Paladin was required to adhere to a Lawful Good alignment, which didn’t provide much scope for role-playing or crafting complex backstories. This aspect of the game is meant to be particularly significant.

Giving credit where it’s due, the Wizards of the Coast certainly added depth to the Paladin class by introducing new subclasses, making them less monotonous and more intriguing. Now, Paladins have options to pursue vengeance and even breach their oaths, albeit retaining their extreme nature. However, many players often prefer characters with more subtle, nuanced choices.

2025-09-10 10:35