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Choosing a class typically is more about its capabilities: what will it allow the character to do? But when building your character, theorycrafting on why the character, versus the player, followed that path can play a large role in creating an interesting back story. Some classes are more straightforward, while some are more open-ended. In these Class Theory features we will explore and present ideas to help illustrate the reason a character follows a class path.
Class Theory: Fighter Concepts
In this feature we will explore what separates a leveled Fighter from a common warrior.
Class Theory: Ranger Concepts
In this feature we will explore what gives the Ranger their primal powers including spells and other class features.
Class Theory: Barbarian Concepts
In this feature we will explore what gives the Barbarian primal powered rage versus just being a frenzied warrior.
Class Theory: Druid Concepts
In this feature we will explore why a character might gain the ability to call on the mystical, primal forces of nature.
Class Theory: Cleric Concepts
In this feature we will explore what makes a character a Cleric with divine powers versus a regular priest or holy warrior.
Class Theory: Paladin Concepts
In this feature we will explore what makes a paladin a paladin, not in features but by choice.
Class Theory: Warlock Concepts
In this feature we will explore why someone might make a pact with an extraplanar being in exchange for the power gained following the Warlock class.
To Play to or Skip to Subclass
The 2024 rules version of 5e changed it so that ALL classes wait to get a subclass until third level. With the standard wait for everyone, the first two levels may seem boring, for players they do not get to specialize in what really separates their character from others. In some campaigns, the group plays through the early levels, but many jump straight to third. So which is better?
Read More about making the decision.
Adding Flavor: Cleric Deities vs. Domains
In 5e, clerics that make it to 3rd level and beyond select a subclass that is a Domain. The domains represent types of clerics more so than deities and their characteristics as well as the qualities of their faith and followers. Domains can be shared between clerics of different deities. So, how can you give your character flavor through other character traits to represent the specific deity that they follow?
Read More about how you can do so.