The Strongest Build with No Magic Items in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition
Introduction
In the world of Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition (DD 5E), the choice of a character's class and feats can often determine their strength and effectiveness in combat. Among the myriad of possibilities, one question frequently resonates with players: what is the strongest build with no magic items? This article delves into the dynamics of early and late-game play, considering the potential of Paladins and Wizards to provide the answer to this enigma.
Early Game: The Paladin
In the early stages of the game, Paladins tend to dominate the leaderboard. This is primarily due to their exceptional Strength, Dexterity, and Wisdom scores, alongside their heightened proficiency bonus and high hit points. Additionally, Paladins possess the ability to take oaths, which grant them various bonuses and features, further enhancing their early game performance.
Another critical advantage of Paladins in the initial stages is their Divine Smite feature. This feature allows them to deal an extra 1d8 radiant damage on a hit with a melee weapon attack, which grows with their level. Combined with their ability to increase their Attack Bonus, Paladins can deal significant damage early on. Furthermore, their Divine Sense feature is incredibly useful for detecting invisible or undead foes, which can be a game-changer in combat.
Mid and Late Game: The Wizard with Wish
As the game progresses, the rules of the game begin to play a significant role in character builds. The late-game single-class Wizard emerges as the unbeatable force, often surpassing other classes even without the aid of magic items. This phenomenon is primarily due to the Wish spell, which can be cast on any object or creature made of physical material, as well as the Read Magic spell if the caster can read mystical inscriptions, or memorize magical writing.
The Wish spell is the ultimate game-breaker for several reasons. Firstly, it provides nearly unfathomable power, allowing the caster to restore the health of a creature to its original state, bring back creatures (with up to 10,000 hit points), or reify objects. Secondly, it can be used to replace items and can even remove curses. The spell’s flexibility makes it highly valuable in late-game scenarios, where overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges can greatly impact the narrative and success of the campaign.
The Role of Multiclassing and Feats
While Paladins and Wizards are the standout classes, it is important to note that multiclassing and feats can further enhance a character's effectiveness, even in a no-magic-items scenario. For instance, a Paladin who has taken the from Cornered Beast or Top-Botched Boots feats from the Unearthed Arcanas takes a significant leap in early-game combat prowess. Similarly, a Wizard can benefit from Infernal Legacy or Breath of Challenges for resiliency in late-game scenarios, or Aeros Dynamic or Tough feats to enhance their survivability.
Conclusion
The strong build in DD 5E with no magic items is a subject of much debate and experimentation. While Paladins shine in the early stages, it is the late-game single-class Wizard who truly excels. The Wish spell provides unparalleled power, making it the ultimate game-breaker. However, the magic of multiclassing and feats cannot be overlooked, as they offer immense potential for character growth and versatility.
Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer to the DD world, understanding the strength of different classes and their capabilities can greatly enhance your gameplay experience. Experiment with different build ideas, and remember that the power of your character is in your hands!