Dungeons & Dragons: Overpowered Cleric Builds

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As a seasoned Dungeons & Dragons player with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that these character builds are nothing short of marvelous! The first one, the “Holy Light Warrior,” is a classic take on the Cleric class, focusing on healing and damage output. It’s reminiscent of those brave paladins we often see in fantasy epics, always ready to defend the weak and vanquish evil.

In terms of assembling an adventuring group, the Cleric character is frequently assigned the role of the healer. Yet, contemporary interpretations of this traditionally supportive role have undergone significant transformations. Nowadays, Clerics have metamorphosed into a versatile class that can excel in any position and performs admirably when multiclassed.

The role of the Cleric has evolved from being less popular to becoming increasingly attractive for D&D players, whether playing at a table or on a screen (like in Baldur’s Gate 3). Clerics not only excel at healing, but they also prove effective as defenders, supporters, and both physical and magical damage dealers.

When it comes to spellcasting, clerics rely on the Wisdom attribute, making it their most important stat. If you’re considering multiclassing, consider classes that likewise lean on Wisdom for their abilities. Some examples are Druids, Monks, and Rangers.

4. The Tempest Cleric

Masters Of The Storm

  • Ability Scores: A Cleric with an elemental build needs a high Wisdom and a few extra points in Dexterity

This build can work for a defender as well as a striker, but in that case, Constitution should be higher than Dexterity. These Clerics are primarily magic damage dealers, but they can also have extra weapon proficiencies or a higher AC depending on the subclass.

Race

  • Tiefling, Bloodline of Levistus. Found in Mordenkainen’s Tome of Foes, this Tiefling subrace gets a +1 to their Constitution and learns the cantrips Ray of Frost, Darkness, and Armor of Agathys.
  • Air Genasi. Add +2 and +1 to any two scores or +1 to three. Learn the Shocking Grasp cantrip.
  • Dragonborn. Choose a bloodline based on Lightning, Cold, or Poison. Lightning is for Dexterity saves and Cold depends on Constitution, so it depends on the build the player is going for.

Subclass: Tempest Domain

Let’s adapt the “storm” motif in this Cleric’s character development by making them adept at manipulating elements such as thunder, wind, water, and lightning. This specialized Cleric, known as a Tempest Cleric, boasts additional proficiencies in armor class (AC) and weaponry, enabling them to exert greater force in close combat situations, even without utilizing spellcasting abilities.

Background

  • Shipwright. A ship needs a Cleric, and the proficiencies in History and Perception fit well with the class. They can also repair water-going vehicles.
  • Giant Foundling. This background opens up an important feature, Strike of the Giants. Skill proficiencies are Intimidation and Survival.
  • Soldier. This Cleric learned Intimidation and Athletics during their army time, and they have a military rank.

Feats

  • Charger. After using Dash, this Cleric can use a Bonus Action to Shove an enemy. Run 10ft in a straight line to gain a +5 to attack damage.
  • Elemental Adept. Choose acid, cold, lightning, or thunder. Spells cast by the Cleric of this damage type ignore elemental resistance.
  • Guile Of The Cloud Giant. Increase Constitution by +1. Gets the Cloudy escape ability, which allows the Cleric to use a Reaction to give themselves resistance to the attack’s damage. The character needs to be at level 4 and have Strike of the Giants to use this feat.

Recommended Gear

  • Sentinel Shield. Gives the Cleric Advantage on Perception checks and Initiative rolls. This shield is of uncommon quality, so it’s a decent accessory that’s not too expensive.
  • Dragon Scale Mail. +1 bonus to AC, resistance to one type of dragon element, Advantage on saving throws against Frightful Presence.
  • Wand Of Magic Missiles. Give this Cleric some extra spell power with the Wand of Magic Missiles, which has seven charges that restore every sunrise.

3. The Necromancer

Dance With The Dead

As a devotee of the underworld, I find myself drawn to this build, reminiscent of the cloaked figures tending to the crypts and graveyards, or those who worship the deity of death itself.

In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, you won’t find a Necromancer class, but that doesn’t restrict us from crafting an alternative class with a focus on death magic, the arcane, or command over the undead. I’ve found that Clerics can be shaped into such a role, where they can either deal substantial damage or balance their abilities between controlling minions, disintegrating foes, and mending allies.

Race

In each race, the player is granted the ability to boost two scores by 2 points, or increase three scores by 1 point instead.

  • Dhampir. Roll 1d6 and 1d8 to determine this character’s specific hunger and origins.
  • Duergar. Cast various handy non-combat spells like Enlarge/Reduce and Invisibility. This race also has the abilities of Psionic Fortitude and Darkvision.
  • Pallid Elf. +1 to Wisdom, Advantage on Insight and Investigation checks, the Light cantrip, and the spells Invisibility and Sleep.

Subclass: Death or Grave

The essence of the Cleric class often leans towards themes revolving around death and the hereafter. Among these subclasses, the Death Domain offers the broadest selection for chilling Cold or enigmatic Necromancy spells, and it additionally provides the Cleric with a few additional spell slots.

Another option could be: The Realm of the Dead is another viable scenario. This decision primarily revolves around controlling life and death, granting the Cleric additional abilities to combat the supernatural beings known as undead.

Background

  • Ruined. A series of unfortunate events have robbed this Cleric of their good fortune and taught them Stealth and Survival.
  • Outlander. Athletics and Survival for a Cleric who was raised and trained in the wilderness.
  • Haunted One. Choose two skills from these four: Arcana, Investigation, Religion, or Survival. Roll a 1d10 to determine the Harrowing Event that haunts this character.

Feats

For each feat a player acquires, they have the chance to boost either their Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma by 1 point. It’s advisable for clerics to always opt for Wisdom enhancement.

  • Shadow Touched. Cast Invisibility, and one other spell from the Necromancy or Divination school.
  • Telekinetic. Learn the Mage Hand cantrip, and gain the ability to Shove any visible creature within a 30-foot radius.
  • Fey Touched. Get the Misty Step spell along with another spell from the Divination or Enchantment School.

Recommended Gear

  • Ring Of Spell Storing. Store up to five levels of spells in addition to the usual memorized incantations. The exact spells are chosen at random by the Dungeon Master.
  • Mace Of Terror. Three times a day, this mace can be used to unleash a wave of terror. The Cleric can choose which targets must succeed in a Wisdom saving throw or become Frightened.
  • Scarab of Protection. Provides Advantage on saving throws against spells, but only has 12 charges, and turns to dust when the last is finally used.

2. The Power Of The Light

Lay Waste As A Holy Healer

This Cleric build is equipped with abilities dealing Light and Fire damage, demonstrating equal prowess in both damaging enemies and supporting allies. The character’s role can be likened to a Paladin, as they employ their skills not only for healing but also dispelling negative effects and boosting teammates. However, it’s essential to note that this Cleric build is far from being just a support class or a passive healer stationed at the backlines. They are formidable spellcasters capable of matching Sorcerers and Wizards in terms of dealing damage.

Race

  • Astral Elf. Add +2 and +1 to any two scores, or +1 to three. Has Darkvision, can’t be Charmed, and can choose one cantrip from three options; Dancing Lights, Light, or Sacred Flame.
  • Aasamir. Add +2 and +1 to any two scores, or +1 to three. Resistance to Necrotic and Radiant damage, the Healing Hands ability, and the Light cantrip.
  • Variant Human. Two ability scores of the player’s choice increase by +1. They gain proficiency in an extra skill and can learn one additional Feat.

Subclass: Light or War

In simpler terms, the Light Domain subclass enhances support abilities such as Guardian of Faith and introduces potent offensive spells including Scorching Ray and Daylight. For those who aspire to create a Paladin-like defender, the War Domain is an option that grants additional armor class (AC) and weapon proficiencies to Clerics.

Background

  • Acolyte. Insight, Religion, and the goodwill of local temples who recognize the Cleric’s holy nature.
  • Knight of the Order. These noble fighters often choose a deity to serve, so a Cleric fits right in with skills like Persuasion and Religion.
  • Folk Hero. Animal Handing and Survival. A heroic deed made this Cleric a local legend, and they now enjoy a level of fame that can get them, and their friends, free food, lodging, or other kinds of help.

Feats

  • Alert. This Cleric can never be Surprised and gains +5 to their Initiative rolls.
  • Healer. Use a Healer’s Kit to restore 1d6 + 4 hit points to the target. Requires an action, but doesn’t use a spell slot.
  • Gift of the Metallic Dragon. This Cleric knows Cure Wounds and their Protective Wings ability can shield the whole party.

Recommended Gear

  • Mace Of Disruption. A weapon that does extra damage to fiends and undead, it’s fitting for a wielder of the holy light.
  • Sun Staff. +1 attack bonus, extra fire damage for every target, the abilities of Solar Focus and Sunny Glow.
  • Elven Chain. +1 bonus, the Cleric is automatically proficient in Medium Armor when it’s equipped.

1. Dark Defender

A High Constitution And Close-Range Casting Power

This build for a Cleric is relatively fresh, featuring a substantial Armor Class (AC) that allows it to engage in close-combat. Typically, its spells cater to self-healing, assistance, or melee engagements rather than the conventional roles of damage and healing. Deviating from traditional roles, this character takes up a position on the battlefield usually occupied by Paladins or Fighters. This Cleric dons heavy armor, emphasizes melee combat and defense, and necessitates Constitution and Strength, in addition to Wisdom.

Race

  • Half-Orc. +2 to Strength and +1 to Consitution, Darkvision, proficiency in Intimidation. Relentless Endurance lets this Cleric keep 1 hit point when they drop to zero.
  • Hill Dwarf. Wisdom and hit point maximum increase by +1, and the hit points continue to tick up by one at every level.
  • Githzerai. Add +2 and +1 to any two scores, or +1 to three. Learn the Mage Hand, Detect Thoughts and Shield cantrips.

Subclass: War Domain

In the War Domain, the Cleric gains expertise in wearing heavy armor and wielding martial weapons. Additionally, they acquire unique spellcasting powers that allow them to dispel curses, exorcise evil, and boost the spirits of their allies.

Background

  • City Watch. Similar to the Soldier background, this Background is more urban and relies on Athletics and Insight.
  • Inquisitor. Investigation and Religion make sense for a Cleric, and this one can also arrest criminals on behalf of the church.
  • Far Traveler. This Cleric has gained the skills of Insight and Perception in their wanderings.

Feats

  • Sentinel. Hit an enemy with an opportunity attack and slow them down. Enemies can’t Disengage from Opportunity Attacks, and use a Reaction to attack an enemy targeting an ally.
  • Gift of the Chromatic Dragon. Use the ability of Chromatic Infusion to charge a weapon with the choice of elemental damage. Reactive Resistance can be used against acid, cold, fire, lightning, or poison damage.
  • Resilient. Increase any ability score by +1 and gain proficiency in saving throws in the same ability.

Recommended Gear

  • Adamantine Chain Mail. Any critical hits against a Cleric wearing this armor are downgraded to normal.
  • Boots Of Elvenkind. This Cleric is usually wearing Heavy Armor, which makes it harder to use Stealth abilities. These books mitigate that problem.
  • Gauntlets of Ogre Power. Boost the Cleric’s Strength to 19.

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2024-12-25 19:08