D&D 5e Subclasses A Comprehensive Guide To Every Class Option

Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e) offers an incredibly rich and diverse landscape for character creation, and at the heart of this lies the concept of subclasses. These specialized paths within the 13 core classes provide players with a multitude of options to tailor their characters, ensuring a unique and engaging gameplay experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll embark on a journey through the subclasses of D&D 5e, exploring the nuances of each and illuminating the possibilities they offer.

The Significance of Subclasses in D&D 5e

Subclasses are pivotal in shaping a character's identity and playstyle. Think of it this way, guys: your base class is like the foundation of a house – it determines the fundamental aspects of your character, such as hit points, proficiencies, and primary abilities. The subclass, on the other hand, is like the interior design – it dictates the specific rooms, their functions, and the overall aesthetic of your dwelling. In D&D terms, subclasses grant access to unique features, spells, and abilities that significantly alter how your character interacts with the world. They provide a layer of specialization, allowing you to fine-tune your character to fit a particular role within the party or to embody a specific narrative concept. Whether you envision a stoic Oath of Devotion Paladin, a shadowy Assassin Rogue, or a mystical School of Evocation Wizard, subclasses empower you to bring your character vision to life. Choosing a subclass isn't merely about selecting a set of abilities; it's about crafting a story, defining a personality, and forging a destiny within the vast tapestry of the D&D universe. The right subclass can transform a generic adventurer into a legendary hero, a cunning strategist, or a formidable force of nature. It's the key to unlocking your character's true potential and leaving your mark on the game world.

A Class-by-Class Exploration of Subclasses

Let's dive into the subclasses available for each of the 13 core classes in D&D 5e. For each class, we'll briefly describe the essence of the class itself and then delve into the various subclasses, highlighting their unique features and playstyles.

Barbarian

Barbarians are the masters of rage, channeling primal fury to unleash devastating attacks. They are resilient warriors, thriving in the heat of battle and relying on raw strength and instinct. Barbarians typically choose a subclass, known as a Primal Path, at 3rd level.

• Path of the Totem Warrior: This path embodies the connection to the animal spirits, granting enhanced resilience and combat prowess. Totem Warriors can choose a totem animal (bear, eagle, elk, tiger, or wolf) at 3rd level, gaining different benefits associated with each animal. This classic Barbarian subclass is a solid choice for players who want a durable and effective combatant.
• Path of the Zealot: Zealots are fervent warriors who channel divine power through their rage. Their attacks are infused with holy energy, and they become incredibly difficult to kill. The Zealot path is perfect for players who want to play a Barbarian with a religious or fanatical bent. The Path of the Zealot Barbarian subclass is a very powerful sub class to play.
• Path of the Berserker: Berserkers are the epitome of uncontrolled rage, entering a frenzied state that allows them to unleash even more devastating attacks. However, this frenzy comes at a cost, leaving them exhausted after the battle. This subclass offers a high-risk, high-reward playstyle for those who crave maximum damage output.
• Path of the Storm Herald: This subclass channels the power of the elements, summoning storms and unleashing elemental attacks. Storm Heralds can choose a storm aura (desert, sea, or tundra) at 3rd level, each providing different benefits to the Barbarian and their allies. If you enjoy elemental damage and battlefield control, this is a great option.
• Path of the Beast: Barbarians who follow the Path of the Beast draw upon a primal magic within themselves, allowing them to manifest bestial features and unleash devastating attacks. This subclass offers a unique and flavorful playstyle for those who want to embrace their inner animal.
• Path of the Wild Magic: Wild Magic Barbarians have a chaotic source of magic within them that erupts during their rage, creating unpredictable effects. This subclass is a fun and unpredictable option for players who enjoy a bit of randomness in their gameplay.

Bard

Bards are masters of song and story, using their artistic talents to inspire allies, manipulate enemies, and weave magic into the world. They are versatile characters, capable of filling a variety of roles within the party. Bards choose a subclass, known as a Bard College, at 3rd level.

• College of Lore: Lore Bards are scholars and knowledge-seekers, delving into the mysteries of the universe and using their knowledge to enhance their magic. They gain access to additional spells and skills, making them versatile spellcasters and support characters. The College of Lore Bard subclass is one of the most popular subclasses in Dungeons and Dragons.
• College of Valor: Valor Bards are warriors and leaders, inspiring their allies with tales of heroism and bolstering them in battle. They are proficient in combat and can enhance their allies' attacks and defenses. This subclass is perfect for players who want to play a Bard who is also a capable combatant.
• College of Glamour: Glamour Bards are charismatic performers, weaving illusions and enchantments to captivate audiences and manipulate emotions. They are masters of social interaction and can charm their way out of almost any situation. The College of Glamour subclass is perfect for bards who want to be great at social interactions.
• College of Swords: Swords Bards are swashbuckling duelists, blending martial prowess with their magical abilities. They are skilled with weapons and can use their Bardic Inspiration to enhance their attacks and defenses. This subclass offers a unique blend of martial and magical abilities.
• College of Whispers: Whispers Bards are masters of intrigue and deception, using their words as weapons to sow discord and manipulate events from the shadows. They are skilled in espionage and can infiltrate enemy organizations with ease. This subclass offers a darker and more secretive playstyle.
• College of Eloquence: Eloquence Bards are masters of rhetoric and persuasion, capable of swaying even the most stubborn individuals with their words. They are skilled diplomats and negotiators, able to resolve conflicts and forge alliances. If you like making friends and solving problems with talking, the College of Eloquence might be for you.

Cleric

Clerics are divine intermediaries, channeling the power of their chosen deity to heal, protect, and smite their enemies. They are versatile healers and spellcasters, playing a crucial role in supporting the party. Clerics choose a subclass, known as a Divine Domain, at 1st level.

• Knowledge Domain: Knowledge Clerics are scholars and historians, seeking to unravel the mysteries of the universe and preserve ancient lore. They are skilled in divination and can access a wide range of knowledge-based spells. The Knowledge Domain Cleric subclass is a great support to the party.
• Life Domain: Life Clerics are dedicated healers and protectors, channeling divine energy to mend wounds and safeguard their allies. They are masters of healing magic and can keep their party alive in even the most dangerous situations. This subclass is a classic choice for players who want to play a dedicated healer.
• Light Domain: Light Clerics are radiant warriors, wielding the power of light to banish darkness and incinerate their foes. They are skilled in radiant and fire magic and can turn the tide of battle with their powerful spells. The Light Domain Cleric subclass is a great choice for those who want to play an offensive healer.
• Nature Domain: Nature Clerics are guardians of the natural world, drawing their power from the forests, mountains, and seas. They are skilled in nature magic and can communicate with animals and plants. This subclass is perfect for players who want to play a Cleric with a strong connection to nature.
• Tempest Domain: Tempest Clerics are storm-bringers, wielding the power of thunder and lightning to punish their enemies and control the elements. They are skilled in thunder and lightning magic and can unleash devastating storms upon their foes. If you want to be a cleric that controls the elements, the Tempest Domain is for you.
• Trickery Domain: Trickery Clerics are masters of deception and illusion, using their magic to trick and mislead their enemies. They are skilled in illusion and enchantment magic and can create elaborate disguises and distractions. This subclass is ideal for players who want to play a Cleric with a mischievous and cunning personality.
• War Domain: War Clerics are holy warriors, channeling divine power to smite their enemies and lead their allies to victory. They are proficient in combat and can enhance their attacks and defenses with divine magic. This subclass is perfect for players who want to play a Cleric who is also a formidable combatant.
• Grave Domain: Grave Domain Clerics are the watchers of the threshold between life and death, acting as guardians against the undead and those who would defile the natural cycle. They are skilled in necromantic magic and can manipulate the forces of life and death. If you're into the darker side of healing, the Grave Domain might be for you.
• Order Domain: Order Domain Clerics believe in the power of law and structure, working to enforce order and justice in the world. They are skilled in enchantment and command magic and can compel others to obey their will. This subclass is suitable for players who want to play a Cleric with a strong sense of justice and authority.
• Twilight Domain: Twilight Domain Clerics are guardians of the transition between day and night, offering comfort and protection in the darkness. They are skilled in radiant and healing magic and can create a sanctuary of twilight for their allies. The Twilight Domain Cleric subclass is a powerful support option.

Druid

Druids are guardians of nature, drawing their power from the earth, the sky, and the creatures that inhabit them. They are versatile spellcasters and shapeshifters, able to transform into animals and command the forces of nature. Druids choose a subclass, known as a Druid Circle, at 2nd level.

• Circle of the Land: Land Druids are deeply connected to a specific type of terrain, such as forests, grasslands, or mountains. They gain access to additional spells based on their chosen terrain, making them versatile spellcasters. This Circle of the Land Druid subclass is the most versatile spellcasters Druids can be.
• Circle of the Moon: Moon Druids are masters of shapeshifting, able to transform into powerful beasts and elemental creatures. They are formidable combatants in animal form and can sustain their transformations for extended periods. The Circle of the Moon is great for players who want to wild shape often.
• Circle of the Shepherd: Shepherd Druids are guardians of the wilderness, protecting animals and fostering harmony between the natural world and civilization. They are skilled in summoning creatures and can bolster their allies with protective spirits. If you enjoy having animal companions, this is your circle.
• Circle of Spores: Spores Druids embrace the cycle of life and death, wielding the power of fungi and decay. They can unleash clouds of spores, animate corpses, and transform into fungal creatures. This subclass offers a unique and somewhat macabre playstyle.
• Circle of Stars: Stars Druids draw their power from the constellations, channeling celestial energy to heal and protect their allies. They can transform into starry forms, gaining access to unique abilities and spells. This is a great option for druids who want a celestial theme.
• Circle of Wildfire: Wildfire Druids are drawn to the destructive and regenerative power of fire, using it to cleanse and renew the natural world. They can summon a fiery spirit companion and unleash devastating fire spells. If you want to play a druid with an offensive focus, this is a strong pick.

Fighter

Fighters are masters of combat, skilled in a variety of weapons and fighting styles. They are versatile warriors, capable of filling a variety of roles within the party. Fighters choose a subclass, known as a Martial Archetype, at 3rd level.

• Champion: Champions are the epitome of martial prowess, excelling in combat through sheer strength and skill. They gain improved critical hit chances and other combat enhancements, making them formidable damage dealers. The Champion Fighter subclass is a straightforward damage dealer.
• Battle Master: Battle Masters are tactical warriors, using maneuvers and strategic thinking to outwit their opponents. They gain access to a variety of combat maneuvers that allow them to control the battlefield and enhance their attacks. The Battle Master is one of the most versatile and popular Fighter subclasses.
• Eldritch Knight: Eldritch Knights are warriors who blend martial prowess with arcane magic. They can cast spells while wearing armor and gain access to a variety of combat-enhancing spells. If you want a Fighter with some magical abilities, this is a great choice.
• Samurai: Samurai are disciplined warriors who channel their inner spirit to gain an edge in combat. They can enter a heightened state of awareness, gaining temporary hit points and advantage on attack rolls. This subclass is all about maximizing damage output in short bursts.
• Cavalier: Cavaliers are skilled horsemen and protectors, specializing in mounted combat and defending their allies. They are formidable warriors on horseback and can protect weaker party members from harm. If you want to play a mounted combatant, this subclass is for you.
• Arcane Archer: Arcane Archers are archers who imbue their arrows with magical energy, creating a variety of special effects. They gain access to a variety of arcane shot options, allowing them to deal extra damage, control enemies, and more. If you enjoy archery and magical effects, this subclass is a fun choice.
• Rune Knight: Rune Knights are warriors who imbue themselves with the power of runes, gaining a variety of magical benefits. They can grow larger, gain resistance to damage, and unleash powerful rune-based attacks. The Rune Knight is a versatile subclass with a lot of interesting options.

Monk

Monks are masters of martial arts, channeling their inner ki energy to enhance their physical abilities and unleash devastating attacks. They are agile and versatile combatants, capable of dishing out damage and controlling the battlefield. Monks choose a subclass, known as a Monastic Tradition, at 3rd level.

• Way of the Open Hand: Open Hand Monks are masters of unarmed combat, using their ki to deliver powerful strikes and control their opponents. They can knock enemies prone, push them away, and even heal themselves with their ki. The Way of the Open Hand Monk subclass is a classic martial arts archetype.
• Way of Shadow: Shadow Monks are stealthy assassins, using their ki to teleport, become invisible, and manipulate shadows. They are skilled in infiltration and can strike from the darkness with deadly precision. This subclass is perfect for players who want to play a sneaky and deadly monk.
• Way of the Four Elements: Four Elements Monks channel the power of the elements, using their ki to cast elemental spells and unleash elemental attacks. They can manipulate fire, water, earth, and air, making them versatile spellcasters. This subclass offers a more magical playstyle for monks.
• Way of the Drunken Master: Drunken Master Monks use unorthodox fighting styles, weaving and stumbling around the battlefield to confuse their opponents. They can deflect attacks, make unexpected strikes, and even turn their stumbling into an advantage. This subclass is a fun and unpredictable option.
• Way of the Sun Soul: Sun Soul Monks channel radiant energy, unleashing beams of light and radiant attacks. They can hurl bolts of light, create a radiant aura, and even transform their fists into radiant weapons. This subclass offers a more radiant and offensive playstyle.
• Way of Mercy: Mercy Monks are healers and protectors, using their ki to mend wounds and alleviate suffering. They can heal allies with their touch, inflict extra damage on enemies, and even revive fallen comrades. This subclass offers a more supportive role for monks.
• Way of the Astral Self: Astral Self Monks can manifest their astral self, a spectral form that enhances their unarmed strikes and grants them new abilities. They can extend their reach, deal extra damage, and even unleash powerful astral blasts. This subclass offers a unique and visually striking playstyle.

Paladin

Paladins are holy warriors, sworn to uphold justice and righteousness. They are skilled combatants and spellcasters, channeling divine power to smite evil and protect the innocent. Paladins choose a subclass, known as an Oath, at 3rd level.

• Oath of Devotion: Devotion Paladins are the epitome of chivalry and righteousness, sworn to uphold the highest ideals of justice and compassion. They are skilled warriors and healers, protecting the weak and vanquishing evil. The Oath of Devotion Paladin subclass is the classic