Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e

Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e

Key Takeaways

  • Monks are straightforward, self-sufficient, and great for learning D&D mechanics.
  • Champions offer a simple kit for new players to explore all elements of the game.
  • Warlocks, like the Fiend subclass, are easy spellcasters with great roleplaying potential.

As a seasoned Dungeons & Dragons player with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I can confidently say that the Ranger subclass of Gloomstalker is a fantastic choice for beginners looking to immerse themselves in the world of D&D. This stealthy sniper class offers an engaging and exciting playstyle that allows players to take out powerful enemies before combat even begins, making it perfect for those who love a good ambush.


Over the years, multiple iterations of Dungeons and Dragons have been released, with the early versions being quite intricate. However, as time passed, the game mechanics were simplified to ensure enjoyable and smooth gameplay. There are numerous character classes available to pick from, each featuring subclasses. These classes vary in difficulty, and their subclasses lead them down distinct paths.

This discussion will highlight some engaging subclasses that can significantly alter the playstyle of their base classes, or focus intensely on a particular aspect. These choices are ideal for players who wish to enjoy the game, familiarize themselves with it, and observe how others utilize intricate character builds.

6 Path of the Open Hand

Monk Subclass

Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e
  • Few points to keep track of
  • Subclass enhances the core class

Monks are an uncomplicated character class that offers both independence and versatility, making them an excellent option for those eager to grasp the game’s mechanics and features in depth. Their manageable number of resources sets them apart from spellcasters who must juggle extensive lists of spells.

The Path of the Open Hand focuses on deepening the fundamental abilities of the Monk character, ensuring that players don’t have to acquire new skills or adapt their playing style. Moreover, Monks provide ample opportunities for role-playing and can effectively complement the party by filling in any skill gaps.

5 Champion

Fighter Subclass

Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e
  • Straightforward character creation
  • No spellcasting focus

Instead of diving straight into the Champion for Fighter or Berserker for Barbarian, which are relatively simple to manage, beginners might find it more beneficial to start with a class that offers a broader D&D experience. This way, they can enjoy combat, exploration, skill usage across various Ability Scores, and even delve into roleplaying. While Barbarians can be entertaining, they may not engage newer players as effectively.

Champions are devoid of intricate spellcasting mechanics, offering a straightforward gameplay experience that novice gamers can grasp quickly. However, they might not initially provide the same level of excitement as characters like monks due to their simplicity. To create a more enchanting and otherworldly atmosphere for new players, it would be advantageous for them to start with roles that offer more flair and pizzazz instead.

Following the experience with a Monk or Fighter character, players may want to explore the Totem Warrior Barbarian next. Although Barbarians might initially appear challenging to role-play, an engaging backstory can equip players with the necessary tools to develop a unique personality beyond combat scenarios. For example, they could be portrayed as hunters who create trinkets from small creatures found in nature.

4 The Fiend

Warlock Subclass

Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e
  • Large out-of–combat roleplaying potential
  • Easiest spellcaster to run

In Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), you’ll encounter several specialized casters such as Wizards and Sorcerers. Some character classes can use spells and spell lists primarily, while others that are more combat-oriented are also part of the game. However, Warlocks tend to be the most straightforward class when it comes to understanding D&D’s spellcasting system, which involves spell slots and spell lists.

Instead of conventional spellcasters who must replenish their spell slots during long rests, Warlocks can regenerate them through brief periods of rest known as short rests. The Fiend subclass stands out among other Warlock archetypes due to its increased damage output and temporary hit points, ensuring combat remains engaging. Additionally, the class leverages Charisma for spellcasting, allowing players to delve into a variety of social interactions outside of battle scenarios, offering ample opportunities for roleplaying.

After experimenting with the role of a Warlock, exploring the more complex aspects of spellcasting as a Sorcerer or Wizard could be an exciting progression in your gaming journey.

3 Life Domain

Cleric Subclass

Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e
  • Great for learning an extensive spell list
  • Great for learning martial combat and being a frontliner

In this role-playing game, Clerics rely on their Wisdom when casting spells, but they might also need Strength when participating in close combat. This combination of spellcasting and melee fighting can make them a more complex choice for beginners compared to classes like the Ranger or Warlock, which tend to have a simpler playstyle.

As a newcomer to the thrilling world of Dungeons & Dragons, I’ve found that choosing a Cleric is an excellent starting point. This class opens up a vast array of gameplay options, ensuring you experience all the richness D&D has to offer. Plus, being a Cleric offers an engaging opportunity to weave an intricate narrative about your character’s devotion to their deity and collaborate on storytelling with fellow players.

Paladins share some resemblance with Clerics, yet they rely on their Charisma rather than Wisdom. A smart move could be combining the strengths of a Paladin with those of a Sorcerer or Bard, as this would significantly enhance their adaptability.

2 Hunter

Ranger Subclass

Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e
  • All game elements can use Dexterity
  • Low spell complexity

As a fan, I found that Rangers could sometimes be quite situational, necessitating the Dungeon Master (DM) to consider the choices made by the players regarding their Ranger. However, Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything has significantly enhanced their versatility. For me, Dexterity is the key stat for a Ranger, serving as the foundation for their damage output, defenses, and skills beyond combat. This setup makes them an excellent choice for new players who prefer focusing on a single Ability Score to guide their character’s development.

1) In this system, players will employ Wisdom as their secondary attribute when it comes to mastering spellcasting, and gaining an understanding of why it’s strategic to distribute points across multiple Ability Scores. The Hunter Subclass will provide captivating, yet straightforward traits that encourage players to remain engaged with the game. Players can develop a flow centered around Hunter’s Mark and Goodberry spells for effective spell management practice.

1 Gloomstalker

Ranger Subclass

Best Subclasses For New Players In Dungeons & Dragons 5e
  • Great for players who want to learn how to master Stealth
  • Can take out strong enemies before combat even starts

As a gamer, I find myself drawn to the enigmatic allure of the Gloomstalker – a subclass that’s redefined my Ranger experience. Instead of charging head-on like traditional Hunters, I now prefer to operate in the shadows. The Gloomstalker is not just about being unseen; it’s about being an elusive, deadly marksman. From a safe distance, I can take down formidable foes with precision strikes that deal immense damage.

As a Ranger subclass character, you’ll find that you master all aspects of the game, but compared to playing a Cleric, it offers a more focused and streamlined experience. This makes the Ranger a highly enjoyable subclass, filled with clever strategies to evade enemies. Additionally, your natural connection to darkness empowers you to execute covert missions and sets traps for surprise attacks on your targets.

Instead of being similar to Rangers, Rogues function more as versatile or multi-purpose characters due to their Expertise. This versatility might seem intimidating for newcomer players.

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2024-11-15 11:34