If you’re eager to dive deep into the magical world of Druid 5e, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will unveil everything from class features and spellcasting to the intriguing Wild Shape ability.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to Dungeons & Dragons, you’ll find valuable insights to enhance your gameplay. Let’s embark on this adventure together and ensure you have all the knowledge needed to become a top-notch Druid in D&D 5e.
Exploring the Druid 5e Class
Druids in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition are powerful spellcasters who draw their strength from nature. Their deep bond with the natural world grants them access to spells that heal, summon animal allies, and control elemental forces.
One of their most distinctive abilities is Wild Shape, which allows them to transform into various animals, giving them remarkable versatility and adaptability in different combat scenarios.
In addition to their transformative powers, Druids possess a wide array of nature-based and elemental spells that make them versatile support characters.
They can provide healing, defensive buffs, and crowd control during encounters. Through summoning creatures or channeling the primal energy of nature, Druids play a crucial role in upholding balance within the game’s environment.
The Druid 5e
| Level | Proficiency Bonus | Features | Cantrips Known | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | +2 | Druidic, Spellcasting | 2 | 2 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2nd | +2 | Wild Shape, Druid 5e Circle, Wild Companion (Optional) | 2 | 3 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 3rd | +2 | – | 2 | 4 | 2 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 4th | +2 | Wild Shape improvement, Ability Score Improvement, Cantrip Versatility (Optional) | 3 | 4 | 3 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 5th | +3 | – | 3 | 4 | 3 | 2 | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 6th | +3 | Druid 5e Circle feature | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 7th | +3 | – | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 1 | – | – | – | – | – |
| 8th | +3 | Wild Shape improvement, Ability Score Improvement, Cantrip Versatility (Optional) | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | – | – | – | – | – |
| 9th | +4 | – | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 1 | – | – | – | – |
| 10th | +4 | Druid 5e Circle feature | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | – | – | – | – |
| 11th | +4 | – | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | – | – | – |
| 12th | +4 | Ability Score Improvement, Cantrip Versatility (Optional) | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | – | – | – |
| 13th | +5 | – | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | – | – |
| 14th | +5 | Druid 5e Circle feature | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | – | – |
| 15th | +5 | – | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | – |
| 16th | +5 | Ability Score Improvement, Cantrip Versatility (Optional) | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | – |
| 17th | +6 | – | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 18th | +6 | Timeless Body, Beast Spells | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 19th | +6 | Ability Score Improvement, Cantrip Versatility (Optional) | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 20th | +6 | Archdruid | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
Class Features
Druids in Dungeons & Dragons 5e are versatile spellcasters with a deep connection to nature, allowing them to cast a variety of elemental and restorative spells. They can also transform into animals, thanks to their Wild Shape ability, providing both utility and combat options.
Additionally, druids have proficiency in using herbalism kits and can communicate with plants and animals, making them unique stewards of the natural world within the game.
Also Read: Mending 5e: Master the Art of Magical Restoration in D&D
Hit Points
- Hit Dice: 1d8 per Druid 5e level
- Hit Points at 1st Level: 8 + your Constitution modifier
- Hit Points at Higher Levels: 1d8 (or 5) + your Constitution modifier per Druid level after 1st
Proficiencies
- Armor: Light armor, medium armor, shields (Druids will not wear armor or use shields made of metal)
- Weapons: Clubs, daggers, darts, javelins, maces, quarterstaffs, scimitars, sickles, slings, spears
- Tools: Herbalism kit
- Saving Throws: Intelligence, Wisdom
- Skills: Choose two from Arcana, Animal Handling, Insight, Medicine, Nature, Perception, Religion, and Survival
Equipment and Gear
When you start as a Druid 5e, you begin with the following equipment, in addition to the equipment granted by your background:
- (a) a wooden shield or (b) any simple weapon
- (a) a scimitar or (b) any simple melee weapon
- Leather armor, an explorer’s pack, and a druidic focus
The equipment you select can significantly impact your early gameplay, so choose wisely based on your intended role and playstyle. Remember, Druids are versatile, so having a mix of offensive and defensive gear can be beneficial.
Spellcasting
In the mystical realms of Dungeons and Dragons, spellcasting is an integral part of what makes druids unique.
Their ability to tap into the natural world allows them to cast a variety of spells that reflect their deep connection with nature. Let’s explore how druids harness this magical prowess to influence the world around them.
Cantrips
Druid 5e cantrips in 5e offer a range of essential, low-level spells that can be used effortlessly without depleting spell slots. These zero-level spells provide druids with useful magical abilities that mirror their connection to nature.
From combat aids like “Shillelagh” to utility spells like “Druidcraft,” these cantrips ensure druids have consistent and versatile options at their disposal.
Spellcasting Ability
The druid’s spellcasting ability is Wisdom, which determines the effectiveness and potency of their spells. Druids draw power from nature, channeling it through their Wisdom to cast spells that can heal, protect, or control elements of the natural world.
Higher Wisdom ensures more powerful spell effects and an increased ability to resist counter-spell attempts.
Preparing and Casting Spells
Druids have a unique approach to spellcasting that requires them to prepare a specific list of spells from their known spell repertoire each day.
This preparation is influenced by their wisdom modifier and druid 5e level. Once prepared, these spells can be cast using the druid’s available spell slots, allowing them flexibility in how they respond to various challenges and situations during their adventures.
Ritual Casting
druids can perform ritual casting, allowing them to cast certain spells without expending a spell slot. This capability gives druids the flexibility to conserve their resources while still performing necessary magical tasks, such as sensing nearby magic or communicating with animals.
The ritual must be marked as such in their spellbook or known spells list, and it typically takes an additional 10 minutes to cast.
Also Read: Samurai Fighter 5e: Master the Art of Battle in D&D 5e
Understanding Wild Shape
Wild Shape is a transformative ability unique to Druids in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition. It allows them to morph into various animals, gaining the physical characteristics and certain abilities of their animal form.
| Level | Max CR | Beast Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1/4 | Wolf, Cat, Giant Rat | No flying or swimming speed |
| 4 | 1/2 | Crocodile, Giant Badger | Can have swimming speed |
| 8 | 1 | Giant Eagle, Dire Wolf | Can have flying speed |
Wild Companion (Optional)
Picture this: you’re a Druid 5e in D&D 5e and you want a companion to accompany you in your adventures. Enter the Wild Companion feature.
This spirit companion can help you scout, deliver spells, or even provide some much-needed help in combat situations. Moreover, the Wild Companion’s flexibility makes it a valuable addition for any Druid 5e. Whether you need a stealthy scout like a cat or an aerial ally like an owl, your options are plentiful.
What sets this apart from the traditional Find Familiar is the ability to use Wild Shape charges, keeping the flavor and essence of a Druid 5e intact.
This feature can be especially beneficial for those who prefer a more nature-connected approach to their adventuring, allowing you to unleash the full potential of your bond with nature in innovative ways.
Ability Score Improvement
It’s crucial to note that Druid 5e characters get to improve their ability scores at certain levels. Specifically, you can increase one ability score by 2, or two ability scores by 1, at levels 4, 8, 12, 16, and 19.
This flexibility allows you to tailor your character to fit your playstyle, whether you want to focus on Wisdom for spellcasting, Dexterity for better armor class, or Constitution for more hit points. These improvements are vital for optimizing your Druid’s effectiveness in both combat and roleplaying scenarios.
Best Races for Druid Character
When creating a Druid 5e character, it’s essential to consider the best races that complement the Druid class. Here are some top-notch options:
- Wood Elf: Offers increased movement speed and proficiency in Perception.
- Firbolg: Comes with innate spellcasting and a strong connection to nature.
- Half-Elf: Provides versatility with two additional skill proficiencies and a bonus to Charisma.
- Human (Variant): Grants a bonus feat and extra skill proficiency, enhancing customization.
- Ghostwise Halfling: Features telepathy and a boost to Dexterity and Wisdom.
These races provide unique advantages that can unlock your Druid’s full potential, ensuring you have a well-rounded and captivating character.
Druid Circle
| Druid Circle | Description |
|---|---|
| Circle of the Land | Focuses on spellcasting and deep connection with a specific type of natural environment. |
| Circle of the Moon | Emphasizes shapeshifting abilities, allowing druids to transform into powerful animals. |
| Circle of Dreams | Specializes in healing and protective magics inspired by the Feywild. |
| Circle of the Shepherd | Focuses on communing with and summoning nature spirits and animals for support. |
| Circle of Spores | Harnesses the power of decay and fungal growth for both offense and defense. |
| Circle of Wildfire | Balances destruction and renewal, using the power of fire to heal and destroy. |
| Circle of Stars | Draws on the power of constellations to wield celestial magic and provide guidance. |
Armor and Weapons
Druids have a unique relationship with their equipment, as they avoid using metal armor and shields. Instead, they opt for natural materials like leather, hide, and wooden shields. They also have proficiency with slings and spears.
While this might seem restrictive compared to other classes, it’s important to note that Druids rely heavily on their spells and wild shape abilities for combat and defense. This unique equipment choice not only reinforces their thematic elements but also encourages creative problem-solving and strategic thinking in gameplay.
Also Read: Unlocking Disguise Self 5e: Shape-Shifting Adventures Await!
Conclusion
The Druid 5e class offers a dynamic and versatile experience for players who enjoy connecting with nature and wielding powerful spells. With features like spellcasting, Wild Shape, and various equipment options, Druids can adapt to any situation.
Whether you’re delving into the depths of the forest or standing toe-to-toe with formidable foes, Druids bring a breath of fresh air to any campaign. If you found this guide helpful, don’t miss out on more insightful articles. Explore our site for more tips and tricks to elevate your gameplay!
