Dungeons & Dragons: A Beginner's Guide to 5th Edition and 2024 Edition - Part 1

Our resident D&D expert - Bri, takes you through everything you need to know about Dungeons & Dragons!

Welcome to the magical world of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), a game where your imagination is the only limit! Whether you've heard of D&D from friends, seen it in shows like "Stranger Things," or are just curious about this legendary game, you're in the right place. D&D has been captivating adventurers for decades, and with the upcoming release of the 2024 edition, there's no better time to dive in. This guide will walk you through the basics of D&D, helping you understand how to get started, create your character, and embark on your own unforgettable adventures. Let’s explore the fascinating world of D&D and discover what makes it such a beloved experience for millions!

D&D, Maybe You’ve Heard of it?

D&D’s influence extends far beyond the tabletop. Its mechanics and storytelling elements have inspired countless video games, like "Baldur’s Gate" and "Divinity: Original Sin," as well as fantasy literature and cinema. Films like "Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" and shows like "Stranger Things" highlight D&D's impact on storytelling and character development. Popular media has also influenced D&D. Shows like "Stranger Things" have brought D&D back into the spotlight, introducing it to new fans. The web series "Critical Role" has shown millions how engaging D&D can be, inspiring new players to start their own adventures.

It was Baldur's Gate 3, wasn’t it?

If you've enjoyed the immersive storytelling and tactical gameplay of Baldur's Gate 3, transitioning to Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition is a natural next step. Both experiences share the same core mechanics and embrace the spirit of choice, creativity, and character development. In 5E, you have the opportunity to create your own unique character, engage in collaborative storytelling with friends, and explore expansive worlds crafted by a Dungeon Master. The freedom to shape your character's journey and decisions, much like in Baldur's Gate 3, enhances the tabletop experience, allowing you to dive deeper into your favourite aspects of the game. Whether you're familiar with the lore or eager to create your own adventures, D&D offers a rich, interactive playground that complements what you've loved in the digital realm.

Magic the Gathering: Commander Legends: Baldur’s Gate

In 2022, "Commander Legends: Baldur’s Gate" brought D&D and Magic: The Gathering together, blending D&D's storytelling with Magic’s strategic gameplay. This crossover set introduced mechanics that reflected D&D gameplay and featured artwork and lore from Baldur’s Gate, delighting fans of both franchises.

New mechanics to the game like "venture into the dungeon" simulates D&D's dungeon exploration within Magic’s card game framework. The set draws players into Baldur’s Gate, showcasing the rich history and intrigue of this iconic D&D setting. This crossover introduced Magic players to D&D and vice versa, fostering a broader appreciation for both games (yes, I own like 5 copies of Astarion). 

 

The Role of D&D

D&D is a tabletop role-playing game that invites players to step into the shoes of brave heroes and cunning rogues. With a mix of storytelling, strategy, and collaboration, players embark on adventures filled with magic, mystery, and unexpected twists. The game is led by a Dungeon Master (DM), who crafts the world and guides the story while players navigate through quests and challenges.

D&D 5th Edition (2014-2014)

Released in 2014, 5th Edition is the current iteration of the iconic tabletop role-playing game. It emphasises accessibility, storytelling, and streamlined mechanics while retaining the depth and lore that long-time players appreciate.

Core Concepts:

• Role-Playing: Players create characters and embark on adventures guided by a Dungeon Master (DM) who narrates the story and controls the game world.
• Dice Mechanics: Most actions are resolved using a variety of dice, with the d20 (20-sided die) being central to skill checks, attacks, and saving throws.

Features of 5th Edition

1. Character Creation: this is where you will choose your race and class, each with unique abilities and traits. How cool would you look being a halfling stomping through the forest with an axe double your size??
2. Simplified Rules: easy to learn mechanics and clear guidelines for actions, combat, and spellcasting.
3. Rolling to decide your actions: each roll of your dice counts and is used to decide if you pass or fail an action (aka how badass you look as you slice your way through an Orc).
4. Spellcasting: so many spells to choose from, do you feel like raising the dead, smiting a bandit, or playing ding dong ditch?
5. Narrative focus: the most important part of D&D is the emphasis on storytelling and character development. “How do you want to do this?”

That’s great! How do I make a character and get rolling?

 

Choosing a Race

1. Consider Your Character Concept

• Think about the type of character you want to play. Do you envision a stealthy rogue or a wise wizard? Your race can influence your character's abilities and traits.

2. Review Racial Traits

• Each race has unique traits that can enhance your character. Look for abilities that complement your desired class or playstyle.

3. Races and Their Traits:

• Human: Versatile and adaptable, gaining bonuses to all ability scores. Ideal for any class.
• Elf: Graceful and keen, with subraces like High Elves (magical affinity) and Wood Elves (agility and stealth).
• Dwarf: Sturdy and resilient, with subraces such as Hill Dwarves (extra hit points) and Mountain Dwarves (armour proficiency).
• Halfling: Small and nimble, known for their luck. Lightfoot Halflings are stealthy, while Stout Halflings are tougher against poison.
• Dragonborn: Proud warriors with draconic ancestry, gaining breath weapons and elemental resistances.
• Tiefling: Infernal heritage gives them darkvision and innate spellcasting abilities, often facing societal challenges.

 

Choosing a Class

1. Define Your Role

• Think about how you want to contribute to the party. Do you prefer dealing damage, supporting allies, or casting spells?

2. Explore Class Abilities

• Each class has unique features and abilities that shape your gameplay experience. Choose one that aligns with your interests and playstyle.

3. Classes and Their Features:

• Barbarian: Fierce melee warriors who can rage to gain extra damage and resilience. Great for players who enjoy frontline combat.
• Bard: Versatile spellcasters and performers who inspire allies. They can cast spells from any school of magic and excel in social interactions.
• Cleric: Divine spellcasters who heal and support. Choose a deity for domain-specific powers, making them essential for party survival.
• Druid: Nature-based spellcasters who can shapeshift into animals. They control the environment and are excellent at healing and utility.
• Fighter: Skilled combatants proficient with various weapons. They can specialize in different fighting styles, making them adaptable.
• Rogue: Stealthy and cunning characters who excel in skills and surprise attacks. Perfect for players who enjoy strategic gameplay.
• Wizard: Scholars of magic who cast a wide variety of spells. They prepare spells daily and have access to extensive spellbooks.

Hot Tips

• Synergy: Consider how your chosen race and class complement each other. For example, a Dexterity-focused class (like Rogue) pairs well with races that boost Dexterity.
• Playstyle: Reflect on your preferred playstyle. If you enjoy direct combat, a Barbarian or Fighter might be ideal. If you prefer spellcasting, look toward Wizards or Sorcerers.
• Storytelling: Think about how your race and class fit into your character’s backstory. This can enhance your role-playing experience and make your character more engaging.

 

New to D&D!

D&D 2024 Edition

Significant Changes and Additions

Coming later this year, the 2024 edition of D&D builds on the strengths of previous editions, introducing new features and enhancements that make it perfect for newcomers.

• Streamlined Core Rules: Simplified mechanics for actions, combat, and spellcasting enhance gameplay flow.
• New Character Classes and Races: Introduction of new classes like the Artificer and races such as the Astral Elf, each with unique abilities.
• Enhanced Customization Options: Greater flexibility in customising characters' traits, abilities, and spells.
• Revised Spellcasting System: New spells, clearer descriptions, and customizable features enrich magical gameplay.
• Expanded Backgrounds and Feats: New backgrounds and revised feats provide narrative depth and mechanical benefits.

Existing Material Integrating with the 2024 Edition

One of the standout features of the 2024 edition is its seamless integration with existing materials from previous editions, particularly the popular Fifth Edition. Players who have invested in rulebooks, adventures, and supplementary guides from earlier editions will find that their beloved content is still relevant and usable. The 2024 edition has been designed with backward compatibility in mind, ensuring that character sheets, campaigns, and even homebrew content can transition smoothly into the new framework. This approach not only respects the investments of long-time players but also makes the upgrade to the new edition more appealing. Whether you are continuing an epic campaign or starting fresh, the integration of existing material ensures that your D&D experience remains rich and uninterrupted.

 

What do you need to get started?

The Player’s Handbook (2024 Edition)

The Player’s Handbook 2024 is the upcoming update to D&D and will be the NEW cornerstone of any D&D game, the Player’s Handbook contains the updated core rules, character creation guidelines, and spells. The 2024 edition features updated rules and new content, making it an essential purchase for new and veteran players alike. Keep an eye out for the release date coming later this year!

Starter Set and Essentials Kit

Perfect for beginners, these sets include everything you need to start playing, including dice, pre-generated characters, and an introductory adventure.

WizKids Miniatures

One of the most exciting aspects of Dungeons & Dragons is the ability to visualise the fantastic worlds and characters you create. WizKids miniatures are finely detailed, pre-painted and unpainted figures representing the various characters, monsters, and terrains found in Dungeons & Dragons. These miniatures are designed to match the descriptions in the rulebooks, providing a tangible way to bring your imagination to the tabletop.

Dice Sets

Dice are the heart and soul of D&D, shaping the fate of your characters and the outcomes of your adventures. Each type of die serves a specific purpose, making them essential for gameplay:

• d20: Used for attack rolls, skill checks, and saving throws.
• d12, d10, d8, d6, d4: Each serves various functions from damage rolls to spell effects.

Many players enjoy collecting dice, leading to the assent (or descent) of becoming a "dice goblin." This playful term refers to those who revel in amassing beautiful, unique dice sets, adding another layer of enjoyment to the game. What set will roll you natural 20s this week, surely it will be the sparkly one??

Dungeons & Dragons is more than just a game; it’s an invitation to explore, imagine, and create unforgettable stories with friends. With the 2024 edition, there’s never been a better time to start your journey. Whether you’re drawn to the strategic depth of the rules, the creative storytelling, or the thrill of rolling dice, D&D has something for everyone. So gather your friends, create your characters, and embark on an adventure that will be remembered for years to come. Welcome to the world of Dungeons & Dragons!

 

Stay tuned for Part 2!

Bri Leahy

Executive Assistant