It didn’t.

In my previous article here I’m going in length why the class doesn’t work.

I’ll briefly explain why the official Ranger still doesn’t work in D&D 2024 and what to do if you want to actually enjoy playing a Ranger character.

Why the Official Ranger Still Fails in D&D 2024

The core problem of the Ranger has never been numbers alone. It is the identity.

In the 2024 version, the Ranger is still mechanically behind other classes in several key areas:

• It deals less damage than Fighters and Rogues
• It has weaker skill scaling than Rogues
• Its spellcasting is limited and unfocused
• Its role overlaps with other classes without excelling at any of them.

The decision to bind the Ranger’s core gameplay even more tightly to Hunter’s Mark makes the situation worse. Instead of reinforcing a class fantasy, it forces the Ranger into a narrow mechanical loop built around a single spell.

In obvious ways it is a problem of underdeveloped Pillar of D&D – Exploration.

As a result, many players realize that:

• A Fighter can be built to explore just as well
• A Rogue can outperform the Ranger as a hunter
• A Druid offers better spellcasting and survivability

The Ranger fantasy sort of exists. Alas, the official class just doesn’t support it.

What the Ranger Should Be

A Ranger should feel visibly different from other martial classes and druids. In principle, it boils down to an identity of the class – both mechanically and lore wise.

It should:

• Have a strong narrative role in the world
• Prepare for specific threats instead of relying on generic bonuses
• Adapt, evolve, and change to survive enemies others cannot

That is the design direction behind my homebrew Ranger for D&D 2024.

Ranger 2025: Class Re-Worked – A Homebrew Ranger with Identity

Ranger 2025: Class Re-Worked was created to fix the fundamental issues of the official class by giving the Ranger a clear, mechanical and narrative core.

This homebrew Ranger is built around three pillars:

1. Defender of the community – Rangers have a defined social and world role
2. Forced evolution – Rangers mutate, adapt, and transform to face impossible threats
3. Everything is a tool – Weapons, magic, and even the Ranger’s body are means to an end

Mechanically, this redesign introduces features such as:

• Outfitting, allowing Rangers to prepare specifically for certain enemy types
• Hunter State, a focused, high-impact combat mode without relying on Hunter’s Mark
• Subclasses that reinforce transformation, preparation, and adaptation instead of passive bonuses

The full class, subclasses, spell list, and lore are included in the product.

Homebrew Ranger 2024 Subclasses

I’ve designed 3 subclasses. The beloved Beast Master with animal companion that hopefully will be more on part with stronger enemies and give more flexibility. Hunter – strongly inspired by Witcher series. War Golem – my personal favourite (that’s why you can find a short story in the product), that is loosely based on Space Marines from Warhammer 40k.

• Beast Master
  A Ranger who externalizes their transformation by manifesting an inner beast. This subclass focuses on the bond between hunter and beast as two aspects of the same entity, emphasizing protection, aggression, or control depending on how the Ranger evolves.
  
• Hunter
  A pure predator archetype built around studying, harvesting, and adapting to enemies. Hunters grow stronger by learning from what they kill, shaping their evolution through trophies and preparation rather than raw power or spellcasting.
  
• War Golem
  A heavily augmented Ranger shaped by war and sacrifice. This subclass represents a Ranger who has merged armor, weapons, and ritualized enhancement into their body, becoming a living bulwark designed to hold the line against inhuman threats.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a homebrew ranger for D&D 2024 that finally delivers on the promise of the class, a redesigned approach with a strong identity is the best solution. It is also compatible with classic 5e so if you play with 20214 rules, it is good to go.

Artykuł Homebrew Ranger D&D 2024 – A Better Way to Play the Ranger pochodzi z serwisu Before You Roll.

1. Understanding the Ranger Class

1.1 What is a Ranger Class in D&D 5e?

Before embarking on your ranger adventure, it’s crucial to understand the essence of the ranger class. By grasping the core concepts of the ranger class, you’ll gain a solid foundation for creating a memorable and effective character. The Ranger class in Dungeons & Dragons is a versatile and skilled warrior of the wilderness, embodying the essence of a cunning hunter and a protector of the natural world.

Rangers excel in their ability to traverse diverse terrains, utilizing their expertise in survival and tracking to navigate through forests, mountains, and swamps with ease. With their proficiency in ranged weapons and keen senses, they are formidable archers and scouts, capable of striking down enemies from a distance and detecting hidden dangers. Their connection with nature grants them unique abilities, such as Favored Enemy and Natural Explorer, which enable them to specialize in dealing with specific types of creatures and excel in various terrains.

However, rangers may face challenges in urban environments or confined spaces, where their natural abilities may be less effective.

The ranger fantasy has been popularized in movies and comic books by characters like Legolas from “The Lord of the Rings” and Aragorn from the same series, as well as Hawkeye from Marvel Comics, who exemplify the ranger’s proficiency with a bow, survival skills, and their role as guardians of the wild.

1.2 Ranger Abilities and Skills

1. Level 1: Favored Enemy – You have extensive knowledge and experience in dealing with a particular type of creature, known as your favored enemy. You choose a type of creature, such as beasts, undead, or humanoids, and you gain various advantages when interacting with them. You have advantage on Wisdom (Survival) checks to track your favored enemies, as well as on Intelligence checks to recall information about them. Additionally, you learn one language of your choice that is spoken by your favored enemies, allowing you to communicate and gather information effectively.
   
2. Level 1: Natural Explorer – You have a deep connection with the natural world, and your time spent exploring and surviving in different terrains has granted you exceptional skills. You choose a type of terrain, such as forests, mountains, or swamps, and you gain several benefits when traveling through that terrain. You are difficult to track, can move stealthily at a normal pace, and can even find twice as much food and resources while foraging. In addition, you gain advantages on certain saving throws and cannot become lost except by magical means.
   
3. Level 2: Fighting Style – At 2nd level, you adopt a particular style of fighting as your specialty. You can choose from several fighting styles, including Archery, Defense, Dueling, Two-Weapon Fighting, and more. Each style grants you unique benefits and enhancements to your combat abilities. For example, the Archery style gives you a bonus to attack rolls with ranged weapons, while the Defense style increases your Armor Class when wearing armor.
   
4. Level 2: Spellcasting – As a Ranger, you gain the ability to cast spells, drawing upon the natural magic that permeates the world. You learn a set number of spells from the Ranger spell list, which includes spells that embody the essence of the wilderness. You have a limited number of spell slots, representing your ability to harness and cast spells each day. Your spellcasting ability is Wisdom, and you can choose spells to prepare from your spell list after a long rest. As you level up, you gain access to higher-level spells and increase your spellcasting proficiency.
   
5. Level 3: Ranger Archetype – At 3rd level, you choose a Ranger Archetype, which represents the path you follow as a Ranger. The archetype you choose grants you features and abilities that are unique to that path. There are several archetypes available, such as the Hunter, Beast Master, and Gloom Stalker, each emphasizing different aspects of the Ranger’s abilities and playstyle. The archetype you choose will greatly influence your combat style and the additional benefits you gain as you progress.
   
6. Level 4: Ability Score Improvement – At 4th level, you have the opportunity to increase your ability scores. You can either increase your scores in two different abilities by +1 each, or you can increase one ability score by +2. This improvement allows you to further specialize and enhance your Ranger abilities, improving your skills, combat capabilities, or spellcasting proficiency.
   
7. Level 5: Extra Attack – When you reach 5th level, you can attack twice whenever you take the Attack action on your turn. This extra attack significantly increases your combat effectiveness, allowing you to strike more frequently and deal more damage to your foes.
   
8. Level 5: Ranger Spellcasting (2nd level) – Your spellcasting abilities as a Ranger expand, and you gain access to more powerful spells. At 5th level, you can now cast Ranger spells of 2nd level. This means you can choose and prepare higher-level spells that offer additional options and utility in your adventures.
   
9. Level 6: Additional Favored Enemy, Natural Explorer Improvement – Your knowledge of your favored enemies expands, and you gain an additional favored enemy type. You can choose another type of creature to specialize in, broadening your expertise and granting you further advantages when dealing with them. Additionally, your natural exploration skills improve. You can move stealthily at a fast pace while traveling alone, and you gain additional benefits when foraging and navigating through your favored terrain.
   
10. Level 7: Ranger Archetype Feature – Your chosen Ranger Archetype grants you a unique feature that reflects the path you have taken. Each archetype has specific features at 7th level that enhance your abilities and provide you with new capabilities. For example, the Hunter archetype gains features like Multiattack Defense, which grants you increased defense against creatures that target you multiple times in a turn.
    
11. Level 8: Ability Score Improvement – At 8th level, you have another opportunity to improve your ability scores. You can choose to increase two different ability scores by +1 each or increase one ability score by +2, further enhancing your Ranger abilities and strengths.
    
12. Level 9: Ranger Spellcasting (3rd level) – Your spellcasting prowess grows, and you gain access to 3rd-level Ranger spells. This allows you to select and cast higher-level spells, opening up new possibilities and granting you more powerful magical abilities.
    
13. Level 10: Hide in Plain Sight – At 10th level, you have mastered the art of blending into your surroundings. You can use the Hide action even when you are only lightly obscured by natural phenomena, such as foliage, rain, or mist. This ability allows you to effectively disappear from sight and remain undetected, even when under observation.
    
14. Level 11: Ranger Archetype Feature – Your Ranger Archetype bestows upon you a significant feature at 11th level. This feature further develops your unique abilities, complementing your chosen path and providing you with additional tools and strategies. The specific feature depends on the archetype you selected at 3rd level.
    
15. Level 12: Ability Score Improvement – At 12th level, you have another opportunity to improve your ability scores. You can choose to increase two different ability scores by +1 each or increase one ability score by +2, further augmenting your Ranger abilities and capabilities.
    
16. Level 13: Ranger Spellcasting (4th level) – Your spellcasting abilities continue to progress, and you gain access to 4th-level Ranger spells. This expansion of your spell repertoire allows you to cast even more potent spells, giving you increased versatility and power in your magical abilities.
    
17. Level 14: Vanish – At 14th level, you have honed your stealth abilities to an extraordinary level. You can use the Hide action as a bonus action on your turn, allowing you to vanish from sight even in the midst of combat. This ability makes you incredibly elusive and difficult to track or target.
    
18. Level 15: Ranger Archetype Feature – Your chosen Ranger Archetype grants you a powerful feature at 15th level, showcasing your mastery of your chosen path. This feature is a culmination of your growth and development as a Ranger, granting you unique abilities and capabilities that further distinguish you from other characters.
    
19. Level 16: Ability Score Improvement – Once again, at 16th level, you have the opportunity to improve your ability scores. You can choose to increase two different ability scores by +1 each or increase one ability score by +2, further enhancing your Ranger abilities, skills, and strengths.
    
20. Level 17: Ranger Spellcasting (5th level) – Your spellcasting abilities reach their pinnacle at 17th level, and you gain access to 5th-level Ranger spells. These high-level spells offer extraordinary effects and power, providing you with a wide range of options to confront the most formidable challenges.
    
21. Level 18: Feral Senses – At 18th level, your senses become incredibly acute. You gain proficiency in Wisdom (Perception) checks, and you can’t be surprised while you are conscious. Additionally, even when you are blinded or in darkness, you can still effectively perceive the environment around you, allowing you to navigate and engage with your surroundings without disadvantage.
    
22. Level 19: Ability Score Improvement – At 19th level, you have another opportunity to improve your ability scores. You can choose to increase two different ability scores by +1 each or increase one ability score by +2, maximizing your Ranger abilities and capabilities.
    
23. Level 20: Foe Slayer – As a 20th-level Ranger, you have become a master of hunting and combat. You have unparalleled insight into the weaknesses of your enemies. When you hit a creature with an attack, you can choose to maximize the weapon damage against that creature. Additionally, you have advantage on Wisdom (Survival) checks to track creatures, as well as on initiative rolls.

1.2 Ranger Stats in 5e

The ranger class in D&D 5e relies on specific ability scores to enhance their capabilities. Choosing the right ability score distribution is essential for maximizing your ranger’s effectiveness. Here, we will explore different builds and their corresponding stat priorities to help you create a powerful and well-rounded ranger character.

1. Dexterity-Focused Build

A Dexterity-focused build is a common choice for rangers, as it improves their ranged attacks, AC, and various class abilities. For this build, prioritize the following stats:

• Dexterity (DEX): Dexterity should be your highest ability score, as it determines your accuracy with ranged weapons and adds to your AC when wearing light or medium armor.
• Wisdom (WIS): Wisdom is the second most important ability score for rangers, as it affects your spellcasting ability, spell save DC, and the effectiveness of certain ranger features.
• Constitution (CON): A decent Constitution score will improve your hit points and overall durability.

This build is ideal for rangers who prefer ranged combat, relying on bows or other ranged weapons to deal damage from a distance. It also allows for high mobility and effective use of the ranger’s natural explorer abilities.

2. Strength-Based Build

While rangers are typically associated with finesse and ranged combat, a strength-based build can offer a different playstyle. This build focuses on melee combat and can be effective when utilizing two-handed weapons or dual-wielding. Consider the following stat priorities:

• Strength (STR): Strength becomes your primary ability score, as it determines your attack and damage rolls with melee weapons.
• Dexterity (DEX): Although not as crucial as in a Dexterity-focused build, a moderate Dexterity score will still benefit your AC and ranged attack rolls with thrown weapons.
• Constitution (CON): As with any build, a good Constitution score is essential for increased hit points and improved durability.

This build allows you to engage enemies up close and personal, relying on your melee prowess and physical strength to overpower opponents. It provides a different flavor and tactical approach compared to the traditional ranged-focused ranger.

3. Balanced Build

A balanced build seeks to create a well-rounded ranger character, capable of handling both ranged and melee combat scenarios effectively. This build distributes ability scores more evenly across multiple attributes. Consider the following stat priorities:

• Dexterity (DEX): Dexterity remains important to improve your AC, ranged attacks, and initiative rolls.
• Wisdom (WIS): Wisdom should be a priority to enhance your spellcasting abilities and the effectiveness of certain ranger features.
• Constitution (CON): A solid Constitution score is crucial for increased hit points and survivability.

This build allows you to adapt to different combat situations, seamlessly transitioning between ranged attacks and melee combat as needed. It provides versatility and flexibility in various encounters and party compositions.

Remember, these are just examples of different stat builds for rangers. You can adjust and customize them based on your preferred playstyle and character concept. Consider the archetype you choose and how it synergizes with your chosen ability scores. Whether you opt for a Dexterity-focused, strength-based, or balanced build, investing in the appropriate ability scores will greatly enhance your ranger’s performance and contribute to a rewarding gameplay experience.

1.3 Ranger Armor Class

Survivability is a vital aspect of any adventurer’s journey, and the ranger is no exception. A ranger’s armor class (AC) determines their ability to avoid being struck by enemy attacks. Choosing the right armor and optimizing your AC can greatly enhance your ranger’s survivability. Here are several ideas for different armors from D&D 5e that rangers can consider:

1. Studded Leather Armor

Studded leather armor is a popular choice among rangers due to its balance between protection and mobility. It consists of leather armor reinforced with metal studs or small metal plates. This armor offers an AC of 12 + Dexterity modifier (up to a maximum of 5). Rangers with high Dexterity scores can benefit greatly from the increased mobility and AC provided by studded leather armor.

2. Scale Mail

Scale mail is a medium armor option for rangers seeking better protection. It consists of small metal scales attached to a leather or cloth backing. Scale mail provides an AC of 14 + Dexterity modifier (up to a maximum of 2). While it offers superior protection compared to studded leather, the weight and bulk of scale mail may slightly hinder a ranger’s mobility.

3. Breastplate

Breastplate is another excellent medium armor choice for rangers. It is a sturdy, curved metal chest plate worn over a padded or leather base. A breastplate provides an AC of 14 + Dexterity modifier (up to a maximum of 2). It offers solid protection while allowing for greater mobility than heavier armors. Rangers who prioritize a balance between protection and agility often opt for breastplate armor.

4. Half-Plate

Half-plate is a heavier type of armor that strikes a balance between protection and encumbrance. It consists of shaped metal plates covering the torso and limbs, combined with chainmail or leather. Half-plate provides an AC of 15 + Dexterity modifier (up to a maximum of 2). While it offers enhanced protection, rangers wearing half-plate may experience some reduction in mobility compared to lighter armors.

5. Hide Armor

Hide armor is a lighter and more flexible option for rangers who prefer a more naturalistic appearance. It is made from the thick hides of animals, often augmented with additional padding. Hide armor grants an AC of 12 + Dexterity modifier (up to a maximum of 2). It is a viable choice for rangers who prioritize agility and stealth, as it provides moderate protection without sacrificing mobility.

6. Magic Armor

In addition to conventional armors, rangers may seek out magical armors to further enhance their AC. Magic armors can provide unique enchantments or additional defensive properties. Examples include Elven Chain, which offers the benefits of studded leather armor while being considered light armor, or Mithral Armor, which reduces the stealth disadvantage and weight of heavy armors. Acquiring magical armor through quests, encounters, or crafting can be a thrilling goal for a ranger seeking to boost their defensive capabilities.

When choosing armor for your ranger, consider your playstyle, desired level of protection, and the impact on your ranger’s mobility. Remember that rangers rely heavily on their Dexterity scores, so maximizing your Dexterity modifier through careful ability score distribution or magical enhancements can significantly improve your ranger’s AC. With the right armor and a well-optimized AC, your ranger will be well-prepared to face the perils of the wild and emerge victorious.

1.4 Ranger Weapons

5e Rangers have access to a wide array of weapons that suit their versatile combat style. They are proficient with simple weapons and martial weapons, granting them a broad selection to choose from. When it comes to ranged combat, the following weapons are popular choices:

• Longbow: This iconic weapon offers exceptional range and high damage, making it ideal for picking off enemies from a distance.
• Shortbow: A lighter and more versatile alternative to the longbow, providing flexibility in close-quarter ranged combat.

For melee combat, rangers often favor weapons that offer a balance between speed, finesse, and damage. Consider the following options:

• Rapier: A precise weapon known for its thrusting attacks, offering agility and precision strikes.
• Scimitar: An elegant choice that balances slashing damage with versatility.

Additionally, the versatile nature of the ranger class allows them to wield a variety of weapons effectively. Some other options to consider are:

• Quarterstaff: A versatile two-handed weapon that can be used defensively or offensively.
• Spear: Another versatile option that provides reach and can be used with one or two hands.

While the choice of weapons ultimately depends on a ranger’s preferred combat style, the longbow and rapier are often considered among the best options for ranged and melee combat, respectively.

1.5 Ranger Spells

In addition to their martial prowess, rangers possess a unique connection to nature that grants them limited spellcasting abilities. They gain access to a spellcasting progression that unlocks a variety of spells from the Ranger spell list. These spells reflect the ranger’s affinity with the wild and offer a range of utility, support, and combat options.

When choosing spells as a ranger, consider these popular options that can enhance your abilities and complement different playstyles:

• Hunter’s Mark: A staple spell for rangers, Hunter’s Mark allows you to focus your attacks on a specific target, dealing additional damage and gaining advantage on tracking them.
• Pass without Trace: This spell cloaks you and your allies in stealth, making it easier to traverse treacherous terrains and remain hidden from enemies.
• Goodberry: An excellent utility spell, Goodberry creates a handful of magical berries that can be consumed to restore hit points, providing valuable healing during long journeys or in dire situations.
• Cure Wounds: As a frontline support option, Cure Wounds allows you to heal yourself or an ally, ensuring that you can keep fighting in the midst of battle.
• Conjure Animals: This spell allows you to summon animals to aid you in combat or assist with other tasks, providing additional versatility and firepower.
• Swift Quiver: For rangers specializing in ranged combat, Swift Quiver allows you to magically create and fire additional arrows, increasing your damage output significantly.

These spells are just a few examples of the diverse options available to rangers. Depending on your preferred playstyle and the challenges you anticipate, you can choose spells that align with your character’s strengths. Whether you seek to excel in combat, bolster your survival skills, or support your allies, the Ranger spell list offers a variety of spells to enhance your abilities as a guardian of the wild.

2. Creating Your 5e Ranger Character

2.1 Choosing a Race for Your 5e Ranger

Selecting the right race for your ranger character can greatly enhance your overall effectiveness.

Some races are commonly favored by players when creating ranger characters due to their racial abilities that synergize well with the ranger class. Here are some popular race options for rangers:

1. Elf: Elves are a popular choice for rangers due to their natural affinity for the wilderness. They often possess keen senses, agility, and proficiency with bows. Wood Elves, in particular, are known for their ability to move swiftly through natural environments, making them excellent scouts and archers.
   
2. Human: Humans are versatile and adaptable, making them a common choice for rangers. Their bonus ability score increase and the extra skill proficiency gained from the Human variant make them flexible and well-rounded in various ranger playstyles.
   
3. Half-Elf: Half-Elves combine the best traits of humans and elves. They inherit the elven affinity for nature, including low-light vision, and gain increased versatility through their dual heritage. Half-Elves can excel as rangers by combining elven grace with human adaptability.
   
4. Gnome: Gnomes may not be the most common choice for rangers, but their natural curiosity, affinity for nature, and the ability to communicate with small animals can create interesting roleplaying opportunities. Forest Gnomes, in particular, have a natural affinity for the forest and make proficient rangers.
   
5. Halfling: Halflings may seem unassuming, but their small size can be advantageous in stealth and survival situations. Stout Halflings, with their resistance to poison and resilience, can make durable and resilient rangers.
   
6. Tiefling: Tieflings, with their infernal heritage, bring a touch of darkness to the ranger class. While their abilities may not be inherently nature-focused, their unique racial traits can provide interesting roleplaying opportunities, especially when exploring the duality of their demonic ancestry in the wilderness.

Rangers can be also a great choice for more “monster-like” races such as goblins, bugbears or half-orc. Here are a few reasons why you might wanna consider a different approach to Ranger race.

1. Goblin: Goblins may be small and often associated with mischief, but they possess natural agility and adaptability that can lend themselves well to the ranger class. Goblins have a bonus to Dexterity, which can enhance their archery and stealth abilities. Additionally, their racial feature “Nimble Escape” allows them to disengage or hide as a bonus action, providing tactical advantages in combat. A goblin ranger could be a nimble and resourceful scout, using their small size and cunning to navigate the wilderness and surprise enemies.
   
2. Bugbear: Bugbears may have a fearsome reputation as ambush predators, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be skilled rangers. Bugbears have a bonus to Dexterity and a racial feature called “Long-Limbed,” which grants them extended reach on melee attacks. This can make them formidable hunters and melee-oriented rangers. Their natural stealthiness can also lend itself to the ranger’s role as a scout and tracker, allowing them to move silently through the wilderness and surprise their enemies.
   
3. Half-Orc: While half-orcs are often associated with the martial classes, they can make excellent rangers as well. Half-orcs possess a bonus to Strength, which can enhance their melee combat abilities as a ranger. Additionally, their racial feature “Relentless Endurance” allows them to endure greater physical challenges and keep fighting. This resilience can make them formidable rangers who excel in survival situations and overcoming obstacles in the wild.

2.2 Ranger Fighting Style in 5e

Rangers are known for their exceptional combat prowess, and their choice of fighting style greatly influences their effectiveness on the battlefield.

1. Archery: This fighting style grants a +2 bonus to attack rolls made with ranged weapons. It is a popular choice for rangers specializing in long-range combat, maximizing their accuracy and damage with bows and crossbows.
   
2. Defense: Rangers who choose this fighting style gain a +1 bonus to their Armor Class when wearing armor. It provides extra protection and enhances the ranger’s durability in combat.
   
3. Dueling: This fighting style focuses on one-handed weapon combat. When wielding a melee weapon in one hand and no other weapon, rangers gain a +2 bonus to damage rolls with that weapon. It allows for a more aggressive and damage-focused fighting style.
   
4. Two-Weapon Fighting: Rangers who prefer dual-wielding weapons benefit from this fighting style. It allows the ranger to add their ability modifier to the damage of their off-hand attack when dual-wielding, increasing their overall damage output in melee combat.
   
5. Great Weapon Fighting: Rangers who wield two-handed weapons, such as greatswords or greataxes, can choose this fighting style. It allows the ranger to reroll a 1 or 2 on damage dice for melee weapon attacks using two-handed weapons and choose the higher result. It improves their damage potential with heavy-hitting weapons.
   
6. Blind Fighting: This fighting style, introduced in Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything, allows rangers to excel in darkness or against unseen enemies. It grants them the ability to see through magical darkness and gain advantage on attack rolls against creatures they can’t see.

These fighting styles provide rangers with distinct combat advantages and allow them to tailor their playstyle to suit different weapon preferences and tactics. Each style enhances the ranger’s effectiveness in specific situations, whether it’s maximizing ranged accuracy, increasing melee damage, improving defense, or adapting to challenging lighting conditions.

2.3 Best Ranger Archetypes in 5e

Rangers in 5e D&D have the opportunity to specialize further by choosing an archetype, also known as a subclass, which grants them unique abilities and focuses on specific themes or playstyles. Here are some of the available archetypes for rangers:

• Beast Master: This archetype emphasizes a deep connection with animals, allowing rangers to form a lasting bond with a companion creature that fights alongside them. The Beast Master gains the ability to communicate with and command their animal companion, enhancing their effectiveness in combat and exploration.
  
• Drakewarden: Drawing power from draconic influence, the Drakewarden archetype grants rangers the ability to bond with a drake companion. These rangers harness the power of dragon-like abilities, such as elemental breath weapons and enhanced mobility, making them formidable on the battlefield.
  
• Fey Wanderer: Rangers who follow the Fey Wanderer archetype tap into the mystical energies of the Feywild. They gain fey-themed abilities, including charm and enchantment spells, the ability to teleport short distances, and the power to impose disadvantage on attacks against them. These rangers become skilled at navigating both the mortal realm and the Feywild.
  
• Gloom Stalker: Gloom Stalkers specialize in hunting creatures of darkness and excel at ambushing their foes. They gain the ability to see in darkness and become harder to detect while in dim light. Additionally, they possess unique combat abilities that allow them to strike with increased potency when attacking surprised enemies.
  
• Horizon Walker: The Horizon Walker archetype focuses on traversing the boundaries of different planes of existence. These rangers gain the ability to step through the Ethereal Plane, detect portals, and deal extra damage against creatures from other planes. They become skilled planar travelers, gaining enhanced mobility and the ability to thwart teleportation magic.
  
• Hunter: The Hunter archetype represents the classic ranger archetype, focusing on versatile combat techniques and survival skills. Hunters gain access to a range of abilities, including defensive tactics, improved multi-target attacks, and the ability to gain advantage on saving throws against being frightened.
  
• Monster Slayer: Monster Slayers dedicate themselves to tracking and defeating the deadliest creatures that threaten civilization. These rangers gain specialized abilities to exploit their foes’ weaknesses, resist their abilities, and deal extra damage against specific types of creatures. They become formidable hunters of monsters.
  
• Swarmkeeper: This unique archetype allows rangers to command swarms of nature spirits, insects, or other creatures. Swarmkeepers gain the ability to manipulate swarms, distract enemies, and protect themselves and their allies with protective auras. They become masters of utilizing the power of nature’s swarming creatures.

Each archetype offers distinct features and abilities, allowing rangers to tailor their playstyle to match their character concept and preferred approach to adventuring. From forming bonds with animal companions to harnessing fey magic or specializing in hunting specific types of creatures, the available archetypes provide exciting opportunities for rangers to develop their unique strengths and abilities.

3. Playing a Ranger in DND 5e

3.1 Roleplaying Tips for Rangers

Roleplaying a ranger goes beyond numbers and combat mechanics. Here are several tips to help you roleplay Ranger character.

1. Embrace Nature: Rangers have a deep connection to the natural world. Emphasize your character’s affinity for forests, mountains, or other wilderness environments. Engage with the flora and fauna around you, and show respect for the balance of nature.
   
2. Utilize Tracking Skills: As a ranger, you excel at tracking creatures and reading signs in the wilderness. Pay attention to details, actively search for clues, and use your tracking abilities to uncover secrets or locate enemies.
   
3. Live by a Code: Many rangers adhere to a personal code or set of principles. Define your character’s code and let it guide your actions. Whether it’s protecting the innocent, preserving the balance of nature, or seeking justice, staying true to your principles adds depth to your roleplaying.
   
4. Tap into Instincts: Rangers are attuned to their surroundings and possess keen instincts. Trust your gut feelings, listen to your senses, and rely on your instincts when making decisions or detecting danger. Roleplay your character’s heightened awareness and perceptiveness.
   
5. Express Animal Companionship: If you have an animal companion, showcase the bond you share. Treat them as a trusted friend and ally. Interact with them, communicate nonverbally, and show care and respect for their well-being.
   
6. Embody the Hunter: As a skilled hunter, think tactically during combat encounters. Use your environment to gain advantages, set traps, and utilize your knowledge of creatures to exploit weaknesses. Plan your actions strategically, considering terrain, cover, and positioning.
   
7. Evoke Stealth and Camouflage: Rangers are adept at staying hidden and moving silently. Emphasize your character’s stealth abilities by describing how you blend into the environment, move quietly, and surprise enemies. Use camouflage, shadows, or natural cover to your advantage.
   
8. Share Survival Wisdom: Rangers are experts in survival and outdoor living. Roleplay your character offering guidance and survival tips to the party. Provide insights on foraging, navigation, and shelter-building, and demonstrate your ability to thrive in harsh environments.
   
9. Interact with Wildlife: Communicate with animals and respect their role in nature. Roleplay conversations with wildlife, seeking their guidance or assistance. Offer assistance to injured animals or protect them from harm when possible.
   
10. Embrace Solitude and Independence: Rangers often enjoy their solitude and value their independence. Show moments of introspection, enjoy quiet activities such as sketching or journaling, and demonstrate self-reliance when faced with challenges.

Remember, these tips are meant to inspire and guide your roleplaying as a ranger. Ultimately, your character’s personality, backstory, and personal goals will shape how you bring your ranger to life at the table. Embrace the unique aspects of your ranger and have fun immersing yourself in the world of wilderness and adventure!

Here are characters you can use to inspire yourself when creating a ranger character:

1. Aragorn (The Lord of the Rings): Aragorn embodies the quintessential ranger archetype, with his unmatched tracking skills, wilderness survival expertise, and deadly combat prowess.
   
2. Legolas (The Lord of the Rings): Legolas showcases the grace and agility of an archer, capable of incredible feats with a bow and arrow. His keen eyesight and elven reflexes make him a formidable ranger.
   
3. Hawkeye (Marvel Comics): Hawkeye, a master archer from the Avengers, exemplifies precision and accuracy with his bow. His keen senses and adaptability make him an excellent inspiration for ranged-focused rangers.
   
4. Geralt of Rivia (The Witcher): Geralt, a monster hunter from The Witcher series, combines martial combat skills with a deep understanding of beasts and creatures. He can inspire rangers who excel at hunting and combatting supernatural foes.
   
5. Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games): Katniss, the skilled archer from The Hunger Games, embodies resourcefulness, survival instinct, and the ability to adapt to challenging environments. Her determination and self-reliance make her a compelling role model for rangers.
   
6. Robin Hood: The legendary outlaw who robs from the rich and gives to the poor, Robin Hood is an iconic archer and tracker known for his skills in Sherwood Forest. His commitment to justice and protecting the innocent aligns well with ranger principles.
   
7. Drizzt Do’Urden (Forgotten Realms): Drizzt, a drow ranger from the Forgotten Realms setting, is a character who embodies both combat prowess and a strong connection to nature. His dual-wielding and exceptional tracking skills make him an inspiring ranger figure.
   
8. Tauriel (The Hobbit): Tauriel, an elven warrior from The Hobbit films, showcases swift combat techniques, archery expertise, and a deep connection to the forest. Her dedication to protecting her homeland and her keen senses resonate with rangers.
   
9. Aloy (Horizon Zero Dawn): Aloy, the protagonist of Horizon Zero Dawn, is a skilled hunter and archer in a post-apocalyptic world. Her expertise in tracking robotic creatures, survival skills, and proficiency with a bow make her an excellent inspiration for rangers. Aloy’s determination, curiosity, and connection with nature can guide players in creating a ranger character who thrives in a dangerous and unfamiliar world.
   
10. Jon Snow (Game of Thrones): Jon Snow, a member of the Night’s Watch, possesses combat skills, survival instincts, and a strong sense of duty. His ability to navigate the harsh lands beyond the Wall and his archery skills make him a compelling ranger archetype.
    
11. Ellie (The Last of Us): Ellie, the main protagonist of The Last of Us series, is a survivor in a post-apocalyptic world infested with infected creatures. Her archery skills, stealth abilities, and resilience in challenging environments make her an excellent role model for rangers. Ellie’s determination, loyalty, and emotional journey can inspire players to create ranger characters who are driven by the desire to protect their loved ones and find hope amidst adversity.
    
12. Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect series): Garrus Vakarian, a squadmate in the Mass Effect series, is a skilled sharpshooter and tactician. Known for his expertise in long-range combat, marksmanship, and his loyalty to his comrades, Garrus can be a source of inspiration for rangers who excel in precision archery or ranged weapons. His cool-headedness, sense of justice, and willingness to go to great lengths for the greater good can influence players in roleplaying a ranger with a strong moral compass and a sharp eye for targets.

3.3 Ranger 5e Multiclassing

As your ranger character progresses, you’ll have the opportunity to further enhance their abilities through leveling up.

Multiclassing allows rangers to combine their skills and abilities with those of another class, opening up a world of unique character possibilities. When considering multiclassing as a ranger, it’s important to choose a class that complements your playstyle and enhances your character’s capabilities. Here are some popular multiclassing options for rangers:

• Ranger/Rogue: Combining the ranger’s wilderness expertise with the rogue’s sneaky tactics can create a versatile and deadly character. The ranger’s tracking abilities and combat skills pair well with the rogue’s sneak attacks, expertise in skills, and bonus actions like Cunning Action.
• Ranger/Fighter: Multiclassing into fighter can provide rangers with additional combat prowess and versatility. The fighter’s Fighting Style, Action Surge, and Extra Attack can enhance the ranger’s martial abilities, making them deadlier on the battlefield.
• Ranger/Druid: For those who want to emphasize their connection to nature, multiclassing into druid can be a natural choice. This combination allows rangers to tap into druidic magic, gaining access to spells and nature-themed abilities that further enhance their wilderness survival and spellcasting capabilities.
• Ranger/Cleric: Multiclassing into cleric can provide rangers with additional healing, support, and divine spellcasting abilities. The cleric’s domain choice can be tailored to complement the ranger’s playstyle, such as the Nature Domain for increased nature-related powers or the Life Domain for enhanced healing capabilities.
• Ranger/Bard: Combining the ranger’s outdoor skills with the bard’s versatile spellcasting and support abilities can create a well-rounded character. Bards provide access to additional spells, inspiration dice for boosting allies, and expertise in skills, further augmenting the ranger’s utility and party contributions.

When multiclassing, consider your character’s backstory, motivations, and desired playstyle. It’s also important to discuss your plans with your DM to ensure they align with the campaign and fit well within the game’s balance. Remember that multiclassing can add complexity to your character, so it’s crucial to plan your level progression carefully to maximize the benefits of each class.

These multiclassing options provide a glimpse into the exciting possibilities for rangers to combine their skills with those of other classes, creating unique and diverse characters that excel in different areas. Whether you seek to enhance your combat abilities, expand your spellcasting repertoire, or strengthen your role as a support character, multiclassing can be a rewarding choice for rangers.

4. Ranger 5e Weaknesses and Shortcomings

While rangers in D&D 5e are versatile and capable adventurers, they do have some notable weaknesses and shortcomings. It’s important to keep these in mind when playing a ranger to fully understand the challenges and limitations of the class. Here are some common weaknesses and shortcomings of rangers:

1. Limited Spellcasting: Rangers have access to a limited selection of spells compared to other spellcasting classes. Their spellcasting ability is tied to Wisdom, and they primarily focus on spells that enhance their survival, tracking, and nature-based abilities. However, they have fewer spell slots and a slower spell progression than dedicated spellcasters, which can limit their versatility in magical solutions to problems.
   
2. Dependency on Natural Explorer and Favoured Foe: The ranger’s Favored Foe and Natural Explorer features grant them benefits when navigating their chosen terrain, such as improved speed, enhanced tracking, and resistance to certain hazards. However, outside of their favoured terrain, rangers may not have the same level of expertise or advantages. This can make them less effective in unfamiliar environments or when traveling through varied landscapes. In similar way Favoured Foe makes them reliable only in specific campaigns, often pushing DM towards either catering to the Rangers choice or cutting out entirely the need for this feature.
   
3. Reliance on Limited Resources: Rangers rely on limited resources such as spell slots, abilities like Primeval Awareness, and certain class features that have a limited number of uses. Mismanaging these resources or encountering prolonged adventures without opportunities to rest can leave rangers feeling stretched thin and less effective in extended encounters or campaigns.
   
4. Lower Hit Points: Rangers typically have a lower hit point pool compared to heavily armored classes like fighters or paladins. While they have access to medium armor and shields, their hit points can make them more vulnerable to sustained attacks or burst damage. Rangers need to rely on their mobility, stealth, and range advantage to mitigate this weakness.
   
5. Limited Combat Role Specialization: While rangers are proficient in ranged combat and can excel as archers, they may face challenges when it comes to specializing in melee combat. They lack some of the martial features and extra attacks of other melee-focused classes like fighters or barbarians. This can make them less optimal in close-quarters combat situations or when facing enemies that resist or nullify ranged attacks.

4.1 Exploration without a System: The Ranger’s Challenge in D&D 5e

In the vast world of Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, the mechanics and systems for combat are well-defined and detailed, providing clear guidelines and rules for engaging in thrilling battles. However, when it comes to exploration and travel, the system is notably absent, leaving many aspects up to the interpretation and effort of the Dungeon Master (DM). This lack of explicit rules for exploration can make the ranger’s unique skills and abilities feel underwhelming compared to other classes that have distinct areas in which they excel. Let’s explore some of the key aspects where the absence of explicit exploration mechanics can impact the ranger’s effectiveness.

1. Finding Food and Shelter One of the primary challenges faced during exploration is the need to find food and shelter in the wilderness. The ranger’s Survival skill suggests expertise in this area, but the absence of specific rules means that success or failure often relies heavily on the DM’s discretion and narrative context.

2. Hindrances, Obstacles, and Natural Hazards The absence of explicit mechanics for hindrances, obstacles, and natural hazards means that the ranger’s abilities to navigate and overcome such challenges may not be as impactful or rewarded in gameplay. The lack of guidelines can lead to inconsistencies and frustrations in how the ranger’s skills are utilized during travel and exploration.

3. Wayfinding Wayfinding, a vital skill for rangers, becomes a subjective task without specific rules governing it. Tracking and finding paths through dense forests or treacherous mountains can become a matter of DM rulings rather than having concrete mechanics to rely upon. This ambiguity can hinder the ranger’s ability to fulfill their role as experts in navigation.

4. Additional Exploration Aspects Other aspects of exploration, such as weather conditions, foraging for herbs, identifying dangerous terrain, and locating hidden or secret areas, also lack explicit mechanics in the core rules. These areas, which should be the domain of the ranger’s expertise, often rely heavily on the DM’s improvisation and world-building.

As a result, the ranger’s role as a skilled tracker, a master of survival, and an expert in the wilderness can feel diminished or less distinct compared to other classes that have well-defined roles in combat or social encounters. While the DM’s effort and creativity can mitigate these issues to some extent, the lack of a robust exploration system inherently limits the ranger’s potential and impact in gameplay.

To address this challenge, DMs can consider implementing house rules, additional mechanics, or utilizing optional systems found in supplementary materials or homebrew content to enhance the ranger’s abilities during exploration. By designing and incorporating explicit mechanics for finding food, creating obstacles and hazards, and utilizing the ranger’s skills for wayfinding, DMs can create a more engaging and satisfying exploration experience for both rangers and the entire party.

In the end, the absence of explicit rules for exploration and travel in D&D 5e places a unique burden on rangers, whose abilities are intricately tied to wilderness expertise. Without a defined system, the ranger’s skills and abilities may feel under-utilised or less impactful compared to other classes.

Conclusion for 5e Ranger Guide

Congratulations! You’ve now gained a comprehensive understanding of the ranger class in DND 5e. Armed with the knowledge and strategies provided in this guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on your ranger adventure with confidence. Remember to experiment with different playstyles, archetypes, and roleplaying choices to fully immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant world of Dungeons and Dragons. May your arrows always find their mark, your tracking skills never fail, and your ranger character leave a lasting impression on your adventures and fellow party members.

Obviously, the new Ranger is already out and you can find it in new PHB 2024.

Ranger Class Re-Worked

Since last year I was dedicated to re-work the Ranger. I’ve waited till the 2024 version will come out and it did disappoint as lot of people expected. Both 2014 and 2024 designs felt flat for me so I’ve created a brand new Ranger.

It is a complete new class and three subclasses (Beast Master, Hunter and War Golem – also build entirely from the start).

I’ve designed my Ranger based on three main pillars

1. Defender of Community

This has the most from the original Ranger, but I crank it up to 11. Where anyother class can be whatever they want, Ranger, similar in my view to cleric, druid or monk (all Wisdom based, hm) has a social role.

Ranger protects its community from The Other, whatever that is. They can be dispatched to certain place or live on the outskirts of the community in order to fight things that endanger it.

2.Mutation and Evolution

My Ranger is visibly a Ranger. They mutate, evolve, change in order to fight the dangers that are too strong to defeat it simply by a bow or a sword. The main theme of this Ranger is transforming your body and soul into something else, far beyond the standard representative of your race. It translates to everything the Ranger is and hopefully you will see it in the design itself.

3. Everything is a Tool

Ranger are not Paladins. They don’t have too many bounding rules. Their role is toprotect no matter the cost. They even sacrifice their own body and/or soul to fulfil the role, so everything else is just a tool.

This represents the versatility of a Ranger – they are not bound to a specific weapon, spell or fighting style. The use whatever they need to destroy their target and can prepare to do it.

Why should you buy my new Ranger?

Full Class Top-to-Bottom Re-design

•     Core features called Outfitting and Hunter State
•     Clear class identity
•     Power-fantasy improvement
•     Backbone for Subclass implementation
•     Roleplaying powerhouse
•     Useful in all 3 core pillars of the game: Combat, Exploration and Social
•     Desirable by Teammates

Three New Subclasses

• Beast Master  – A new spin on the most iconic Ranger subclass. Fight alongside a companion that is, indeed, part of you.
  
• Hunter – You will recognize only the name. A completely new approach to what Ranger and Hunter could be.
  
• War Golem – Inspired by grimdark superhuman soldiers, War Golem is a nod to all those who want to purge the world from monsters.

Artykuł Ranger 5e pochodzi z serwisu Before You Roll.

Tanares is a massive product

Tanares Kickstarter is so big you will scroll through the page for fifteen minutes. It is MASSIVE! Books, VVT assets, minis, DM screen, maps, and so on. There is a great lot of choices for players, DMs, mini collectors, and painters. Make sure you take a look at the campaign as soon as you finish reading this.

Even if you don’t feel like it’s a good time for you to participate in the Tanares campaign, give it a shout-out on your social media. I believe that supporting 3rd party developers and publishers is essential for the future of the hobby. TTRPG space will be creatively diverse and sustainable if we have more success stories just like Tanares.

Before You Roll in Tenares – New character options

From among all the content, I’ve decided to talk a little about available character options in Player’s Guide to Tanares, one of the books (among Tanares Campaign Sourcebook and Adventure in the Realms of Madness). There is a book sample, with few character choices, available on the Kickstarter campaign page. I’ve picked a few of them to take a closer look, what Tanares introduces in regards to classes and subclasses.

Character options I want to talk about today are:

• [Class] Dragonblade
• [Class] Madwalker
• [Subclass] Wizard – Lost Magic Researcher
• [Subclass] Cleric – Courage Domain

Tanares Dragonblade

Tanares is big on dragons. They play a significant role in the whole world of Tanares, so I’m not surprised that there is a dragon-specific class. Since there is quite a lot of Dragon-focused content out there, Dragonblade can be easily implemented into other settings and classic campaigns like Tyranny of Dragons.

Dragonblade is a scholar and a warrior and in that regards it has a little bit of Artificer feel to it. I would say it is a hybrid class, somewhere between a fighter, a monk, and a sorcerer.

Since I couldn’t get a glimpse of the subclasses yet, it’s hard to say more about the overall role of this class. I can only assume that there will be several subclasses for Dragonblade, each connected to one of the Avatar Dragons: Azymor, the Red Dragon; Thyra, the Blue Dragon; or Kelorth, the White Dragon. Possibly, emphasizing each of the dragons’ strong points.

Tenares Dragonblade Versatility

Dragonblade has something everyone loves – Versatility. I don’t know a player who looks at their character sheet and regrets having multiple options. Some players like the creativity hidden in constraints, but being able to choose your play style is paramount to great D&D design.

By introducing Draconic Powers, spells-like skills, utilized by Dragonblade, there is little to no limit on how you can approach encounters. Having a resemble of Fighter Battle Master maneuvers, Dragonblade instantly becomes a viable option for players who like to optimize, prepare and adjust their skillset.

The only drawback that seems to surface from reading the sample is the lack of mechanical anchor in the class in form of a recognizable die. It makes the class a little bit more rough and mechanically challenging, comparing to said, Battle Master.

Dragonblade Ultimate Power

Starting at the 3rd level, Dragonblade gets access to a very interesting ability and is most likely my favorite piece of design in this class. Ultimate Power allows to stack the Draconic Power uses and by the right combination, enforce the final skill. The idea of sequencing skills to achieve a bigger and better result is thrilling.

Tanares Madwalker

Dragori Games called their adventure Adventure in the Realms of Madness so Madwalker is not out of place here. Connected to Phenumbral Plane ‘where one cannot accurately predict how space, time, or even gravity will work’, Madwalkers are entangled in some insane mechanics.

Madwalker Aberrant Mutations

Similar to Draconic Powers, Tenares Madwalker can use Aberrant Mutations to temporarily modify its body and gain access to powerful techniques. Aberrant Mutations are also something between spells and maneuvers, but by utilizing them, Madwalker gains Insanity Points.

Mutations almost instantly reminded me of Warlock’s Eldritch Invocations, but they are temporary and thus more flexible. Moreover, the alternative Insanity cost has a twist to it. A big, juicy twist!

Madwalker Penumbral Shape

Probably what is going to attract most players to this class is Penumbral Shape. Activated by gaining enough Insanity Points, you can shapeshift into a monster-like creature. Apart from Basic Penumbral Shapes, there are two Trails you can pick from, to enforce the shape – Arachnid Trail and Augury Trail. Arachnid is the one presented in the sample, but truth be told, the Augury seems way more intriguing to me.

If you ever dreamed of becoming a druid straight out of the nightmares, Madwalker is there for you. I’m still not sure how stacking Insanity points and timing the Penumbral Shape would work in an actual play, I’m sure for more mechanically oriented players it will be a treat.

The stunning, evocative art in the book is selling this class. Look how disgusting it is… but come on, who wouldn’t want to chase goblins as Gluttony.

Who would enjoy Dragonblade and Madwalker?

Easily these are picks for more experienced players who can juggle multiple mechanical aspects of the class and utilize them properly. Madwalker seems to pose even more challenges with the shapeshifting ability and intense role-playing context.

Both classes use 1d8 hit die, so there are not the most sturdy. It could pose some threat for Dragonblade since it seems to be the class that excels on the front lines.

Overall the additional layers of mechanical edge make those classes an interesting choice, easily adaptable to other published settings and adventures.

Wizard – Lost Magic Researcher

Lost Magic Researcher is one of two subclasses revealed in the Tanares sample. As most of the designs in the sample, it is presented only partially but it’s enough to pique my interest. This wizard subclass leaves behind the school-specific ties and focuses more on magic manipulation.

Its Magic Imbuement skill allows the wizard to modify the spell by succeeding in an Intelligence (Arcana) check. The only issue I see here is the rather high DC (starting with 17 and growing), which for level 2 wizard can pose quite a challenge. Critical successes and fails add more fun to those rolls because they further influence the effect of the modification.

One of the unrevealed abilities is called Arcane Overcharge so we can probably expect even more ways to enhance the spells and utilize them differently.

I love the underlying truth behind this wizard subclass. If magic can be studied and has almost mathematical precision to it, there are ways to change, customize and reshape the spells in unlimited variations.

Cleric – Courage Domain

Courage Domain Cleric is the second class introduced in the sample. By the way, the art represents also a brand new species in Tanares – Taii’Maku. The creators made a conscious choice to differentiate between races and species, which is also an interesting and smart move.

This domain is pushing the cleric a little bit into the paladin class but not in a way. Nonetheless, we have an intriguing approach to the cleric and an attempt to introduce a small, new subclass mechanic in form of Courage Points. By using them, this cleric empowers its abilities, make them stronger or possibly versatile. 1st level of Courage Domain looks insanely strong so it would be interesting to playtest this cleric against some threads.

I have no idea how this domain is scaling and what we could expect when progressing. The Unyielding Spirit on level 17th sounds promising thou, and I do believe that this piece of design will be one of the most popular in the book.

Support Tanares Kickstarter

The Kickstarter campaign is still going on so don’t forget to take a look at it, pick your pledge or support the product in any way you can. The product looks amazing. It is content-packed and available in many different forms. There is print, digital, VTT-ready.

If you want something new, interesting, especially as an alternative to the official 5e material, you should check out more 3rd party products, just like Tanares.

Also, follow Before You Roll blog for possibly more info on Tanares and other 3rd party products out there!

Artykuł Tanares RPG – Massive 5e Kickstarter Success You Need to Know About pochodzi z serwisu Before You Roll.

In this article you will find some useful information and ideas like:

• idea behind the subclass
• patron attitudes
• biding marks
• boons flavour
• character building
• tips for DM

Warlock The Restless Souls is available here to download.

The idea behind Warlock The Restless Souls

This new pact allows you to bind yourself with a powerful spirit or a group of spirits. In the subclass you can read

You have entered the pact with a powerful spirit or a group of restless souls. Previously mortal beings, now stuck in the realm of Material and Ethereal Planes, the spirits long to fulfill their destinies and be free at last. Now, they lend their power to anyone who is willing to release them from their bonds and lead to eternal peace. Most often the restless soul is a formerly resentful ancestor, heartbroken lovers or betrayed friends. Sometimes it might be a crowd of abandoned children or banished soldiers.

Warlock The Restless Souls

Inspiration and Influence

Initially I designed this subclass for one of my players, in preparation for a campaign in Ravnica. It was a time when MTG Ravnica Allegiance had it premier and the general vibe of this plane was very strong in our group. One of the Guilds in Ravnica is Orzhov Syndicate, a group of loan sharks who force everyone to pay their debts even after the death, by turning them into ghosts and spirits. If that’s not enough, their leaders is a powerful council of ghosts known as Obzedat, a group of entities who maintained their consciousness even after death.

Our idea for her character was a teenager Niko, who grew up on the streets of Ravnica. As an urchin, he was cunning and smart. However on top of that he possessed extraordinary magical abilities with unknown origins. Later on it was revealed that his powers came from a pact he made with spirits of the neglected, deceased children from the streets of Ravnica. It was an Oliver Twist with dark powers, proving himself among ruthless Orzhov agents. His goal – make people notice the suffering of innocent in the alleys of grant Ravnica.

Different Approach to The Patron

One of the things I wanted to explore with this warlock is a patron made of several entities. In oppose to a powerful archduke of hell (The Fiend) or unnamed horror from Far Realm (The Old One), the power comes from collaboration and multitude of lesser beings. I believe it can vastly change the dynamics between patron and the warlock and add up some tension within the patron realm itself.
I still consciously leave the option to enter the pact with one, powerful spirits so you have a choice to go either way.

Mechanics Behind Restless Souls

From mechanical perspective, this subclass has a lot to offer. In particular when it comes to warlocks I always make sure that their features enforce combat, role-playing and social encounters. With this in mind, skills like Mortal Dread can be as useful in the fighting scenerio, as outside of it. Maybe instead of persuading guards to make you pass you can scare them to death. Or make everyone run away from the part after the large painting started to speak.

In pop culture ghosts and spirits are aways connected to phenomenons like incorporeal bodies and possession. Both Grasp of Death and Spiritual Hijack capitalize on it, in order to relate well-established tropes with new game mechanics.

For the ultimate feature available on 14th level I wanted it to be something intense and vivid. I love The Fiend’s Hurl Through Hell, because it’s so evocative and straightforward in the same time. So in case of Restless Souls, the final feature had to be equally awe-inspiring. Here is where the warlock is not subtle anymore. Army of Spirits summons the souls and make them fight or protect the warlock in an instant.

Tip #1: Remember that the features and skill are not described too specifically so you can imagine it the way you want and flavor it the way you feel like it. It can sound, smell, look as weird and bizarre as you want, as long as it doesn't disrupt the mechanics too much. 

Restless Souls Attitudes

There are some great tips and tables to work on your character in Xanathar’s Guide To Everything. On page 53 you can find some inspiration on the patron attitude, special terms of the pact and binding marks, the visible representation of the pact itself. Given that, when designing, I always try to add some of my own. That way I’m sure the design has a visible unique qualities, but in the same time is also universal and approachable for different players.

Tip #2: In this case consider not only an attitude of the patron towards your character, but also an attitude it has towards itself as a group. Perhaps there is conflict between them, a hint of jealousy or maybe love and romance is dominating the restless souls. 

Restless Souls Binding Marks

Some patrons like to mark their heralds while other avoid recognition altogether. Sometimes the physical manifestation of the pact is an inevitable side-effect, beyond the control of a patron or a warlock. The binding marks can be more or less visible based on the attitude of the patron or their emotion state.

Boons Flavour

Here are some ideas of how Pact of Restless Souls can influence the boon a warlock has. It is purely a flavor, so feel free to use it as a base for your own concept or interpretation. Don’t limit yourself! Talk with your DM to work out something cool, so each time you use it, everyone at the table can feel the power of your pact. I also highly recommend to plan several levels of the visual representation, so each time you gain a new warlock feature or a higher proficiency level, the boon flavor changes slightly.

Character Building

Despite the fact this subclass deals with spirits, ghosts and restless souls, the backstory of the warlock doesn’t have to be sad or tragic. In fact this subclass has a lot of potential to build a positive, open-minded and kind character, who is willing to go a long way in order to help the patron.

Goals

This patron can give a very visible and tangible goal for the character. A specific quest or a favor that can lead the hero through the campaign. It can vary from something simple like:

Take my remains and bring them to my family's tomb. 

To something more elaborate:

We are the forgotten victims of currently ruling king. Take him off the throne. 

The fact that the restless souls in many cases are (ex)humanoid, their goals might be closer to those of the character and thus easier in role-playing. When connecting this goal and hero’s inner need (something the character need but doesn’t know about it) and desire (something the character wants but doesn’t really need), it can make an amazing character to play.

Theme of Death

Since warlock doesn’t learn nor is born with its powers, the pact can be made anytime in the lifespan of the individual. When creating Niko, we knew he would make the pact very early on in his life and keep it a secret. The theme of the Restless Souls is death, in its very physical, sudden and violent form. It was an interesting to see how a young boy would dealt with it.

In the subclass there is a short quote from Khanys, The Voice of Many. She is a fictional character, a middle-aged female dragonborn, who fulfills the will of the spirits without a question. A shaman-like figure, who believes the words spoken by the souls are sacred and should be respected no matter what. Given that, it is an amoral, lawful neutral character, who cleanse themselves from any desires of their own.

This is only a handful of ideas how the patron can be approached. Look into culture, myths and religions because they deal with this theme a lot.

Tip #3:  When creating your own character make sure to implement a conflict within. Your character may agree with the goal but reject the way to achieve it. Or perhaps the Restless Souls is so overwhelmed by emotions, that it cannot see the truth about its own fate. 

Tips for DM

There are a few things a DM can prepare to make Warlock the Restless Souls easy to role-play for a player and therefore more entertaining for everyone at the table. Here is a handful of them:

• Make sure the key locations are mapped in Ethereal Border.
  
• Think about NPC in terms of afterlife. Exaggerate one of their Personality Traits and Flaws to the extreme. Turn their Bond into their goal as a spirit.
  
• When creating the patron with the player (do that in the first place!), add some features that the player isn’t aware of.
  
• Connect the patron goals with campaign goals and put them into conflict in the breakthrough moments.
  
• Let the player interact with the patron. Mimic the level of interaction into other elements of the game.
  
• Don’t give the player a clear answer of what happens to the souls afterwards. The unknown will drive the drama.

Your Warlock Restless Souls

The subclass is available to download from DMsGuild here. If you enjoy it, please make sure to leave a review on the website.

Also, make sure to share you Warlock The Restless Souls with me and the community in the comment section below, on Twitter or Reddit.

Artykuł Warlock The Restless Souls pochodzi z serwisu Before You Roll.