Dungeons and Dragons recently unveiled its largest Unearthed Arcana playtest packet ever. This extensive document encompasses revisions for various classes, subclasses, spells, feats, and other rules within the Dungeons and Dragons game.
Wizards of the Coast is currently working on revamping the 5th Edition of Dungeons and Dragons to establish it as an enduring system. Known as One D&D, this endeavor entails thorough playtesting through Unearthed Arcana materials that feature revised rules and fresh content.
The latest Unearthed Arcana packet is the largest one to date, spanning 77 pages. This extensive document contains numerous revisions that further enhance the game, drawing from previous playtests and surveys. There have been significant adjustments made to various spell lists, spells, and feats in order to improve gameplay. Furthermore, Weapon Mastery, previously introduced in the last Dungeons and Dragons playtest, has undergone refinement and expansion, now available to other classes as well. Notably, the document introduces seven complete classes, with the exception of the Monk, which has not yet been published in an Unearthed Arcana. Here are the key changes made to each Dungeons and Dragons class:
Bards now have the option to utilize spell slots when they exhaust their Bardic Inspiration, enjoy greater flexibility in selecting spells they learn, and possess a formidable ultimate ability named Words of Creation.
Clerics now constantly have the Commune spell ready for use, possess the ability to inflict damage with Turn Undead, and are capable of casting the Wish spell through the employment of Greater Divine Intervention.
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Druid Wildshape alterations have undergone partial reversal, enabling all Druids to conveniently shape-shift as a bonus action. As an added benefit, they can enhance their Wildshape attacks or cantrips by harnessing Elemental Fury.
The Monk's Martial Arts dice have been upgraded, progressing from a d6 to a d12 in terms of scale. Nevertheless, these improvements solely apply to unarmed strikes. Furthermore, a number of Monk abilities have been given new names and undergone significant reworking. Additionally, an exciting new pinnacle ability called Defy Death has been introduced.
Paladins can now utilize Lay on Hands as a bonus action, while Divine Smite has been transformed into a collection of exclusives spells designed solely for Paladins.
Rangers receive popular Dungeons and Dragons spells such as Hunter’s Mark and Conjure Barrage at no cost, in addition to an upgraded version of Foe Slayer serving as their ultimate ability.
Rogues have the ability to reduce their sneak attack damage while inflicting conditions and maneuvering through the battlefield using Cunning Strike and Devious Strikes.
Furthermore, two new subclasses have been introduced for these two classes: the College of Dance Bard and the Circle of the Sea Druid. The College of Dance Bard offers powerful support abilities similar to a Monk, while the Circle of the Sea Druid grants Druids the ability to navigate the skies and oceans and control cold, lightning, and thunder damage on the battlefield. If these subclasses are included, players can anticipate finding them in the revised 5th Edition Dungeons and Dragons Players Handbook, which is scheduled for release in 2024.
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