DND Basic Rules

Version 0.
Credits
D&D Lead Designers: Mike Mearls, Jeremy Crawford
Based on the original game created by
Rules Development: Rodney Thompson, Peter Lee

Writing: James Wyatt, Robert J. Schwalb, Bruce R. Cordell
Editing: Michele Carter, Chris Sims, Scott Fitzgerald Gray,
Christopher Perkins
Producer: Greg Bilsland
with Brian Blume, Rob Kuntz, James Ward, and Don Kaye
Drawing from further development by
Art Directors: Kate Irwin, Dan Gelon, Jon Schindehette,

Mari Kolkowsky, Melissa Rapier, Shauna Narciso
Graphic Designers: Bree Heiss, Emi Tanji, Barry Craig
Cover Illustrator: Tyler Jacobson
Interior Illustrator: Jaime Jones
Additional Contributors: Kim Mohan, Matt Sernett,
Chris Dupuis, Tom LaPille, Richard Baker, Miranda Horner,
Jennifer Clarke Wilkes, Steve Winter, Nina Hess,
Steve Townshend, Chris Youngs, Ben Petrisor, Tom Olsen
Project Management: Neil Shinkle, Kim Graham, John Hay
Production Services: Cynda Callaway, Brian Dumas,
Brand and Marketing: Nathan Stewart, Liz Schuh,
Chris Lindsay, Shelly Mazzanoble, Hilary Ross,
Laura Tommervik, Kim Lundstrom, Trevor Kidd
Harold Johnson, Roger E. Moore, David Zeb Cook, Ed

Greenwood, Tracy Hickman, Margaret Weis, Douglas Niles,
Playtesting provided by
Additional consultation provided by
S. John Ross, the RPGPundit, Vincent Venturella, and Zak S.
Disclaimer: Wizards of the Coast is not responsible for the consequences of splitting up the
party, sticking appendages in the mouth of a leering green devil face, accepting a dinner
invitation from bugbears, storming the feast hall of a hill giant steading, angering a dragon
of any variety, or saying yes when the DM asks, Are you really sure?
Release: July 3, 2014

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Introduction
T

storytelling in worlds of swords and sorcery. It shares
elements with childhood games of make-believe. Like
to the challenges that scene presents.

Dungeon Master (DM):
craggy peaks, the road takes a sudden turn to the east
and Castle Ravenloft towers before you. Crumbling
towers of stone keep a silent watch over the approach.
They look like abandoned guardhouses. Beyond these, a
Ravenloft, and the players decide what they want their
wide chasm gapes, disappearing into the deep fog below.

arched entrance to the castle courtyard. The chains of
the drawbridge gives way? Or cast a spell to carry them

over the chasm?
straining with the weight. From atop the high strong

walls, stone gargoyles stare at you from hollow sockets
with growth, hangs in the entry tunnel. Beyond this, the
main doors of Castle Ravenloft stand open, a rich warm
light spilling into the courtyard.
Phillip (playing Gareth): I want to look at the gargoyles. I
have a feeling theyre not just statues.
Amy (playing Riva): The drawbridge looks precarious? I
story called a campaign. Many people who play the

game keep their campaigns going for months or years,
meeting with their friends every week or so to pick
want to see how sturdy it is. Do I think we can cross it, or

is it going to collapse under our weight?
gameat least, not the way those terms are

whether their attacks hit or miss or whether their
Dungeon Master (DM): OK, one at a time. Phillip,
or the player might choose to create a new character to
youre looking at the gargoyles?

Phillip: Yeah. Is there any hint they might be creatures
and not decorations?
DM: Make an Intelligence check.
Phillip: Does my Investigation skill apply?
DM:
a memorable story, they all win.
Worlds of Adventure
game
are places of magic and monsters, of brave warriors and
Phillip (rolling a d20): Ugh. Seven.

DM:
is checking out the drawbridge?
within a vast cosmos called the multiverse, connected

In the
game, each player
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Introduction
2. The players describe what they want to do.

Sometimes one player speaks for the whole party,
and decides how to resolve those actions.

wants to walk across a room and open a door, the DM
distinctive monsters and races, fantastic geography,
cannibals, and the elves are desert nomads. Some
a task. In those cases, the DM decides what happens,
by one great story, like the War of the Lance that plays
of an action.
3. The DM narrates the results of the adventurers
actions.
back to step 1.
create a character and play in any one of them.

or locked in mortal combat against a mighty dragon.
Using These Rules
verbal descriptions to set the scene. Some DMs like to
three parts.
Part 1
characters they play in the game. Sometimes, a DM
the players keep track of where everyone is.

Part 2
Game Dice
in many bookstores.
and describes the three broad categories of activity in

Part 3
How to Play
according to this basic pattern.
1. The DM describes the environment.
many dice to roll of a certain type, as well as what
to the total.
the roll of 1d2, roll any die and assign a 1 or 2 to the roll
Specific Beats General

The D20
abilities, and other game elements break the general
the
game relies on rolls of a
ability scores
Round Down
and the
derived from them, are the
fraction is one-half or greater.
Adventures
2. Apply circumstantial bonuses and penalties.
3. Compare the total to a target number. If the total
complement each other and cover the weaknesses of
throw is called a
Armor Class
created and played by the other players at the table, as
Advantage and Disadvantage

Sometimes an ability check, attack roll, or saving
The Wonders of Magic
In the worlds of
, practitioners
of magic are rare, set apart from the masses of people
it might take no more than a single game session to
minora fantastic monster, a visibly answered prayer,
combats, interactions, and other challenges, and take
bards and clerics, warriors might be overwhelmed by
Magic is also a favored tool of villains. Many
The Three Pillars of Adventure
interaction, and combat.

Exploration
is the give-and-take of the players describing what they
scale, that might involve the characters spending a day
room to see what happens.

Social interaction
a talkative magic mirror to show a distant location to the
Combat
to defeat their opponents, whether that means killing
might prevail!
Part 1: Creating a Character

Chapter 1: Step-by-Step Characters
Y
game is to imagine and
combination of game statistics, roleplaying hooks, and
also invent the personality, appearance, and backstory

increases and remember to apply them later.
in the
world.
Building Bruenor, Step 1

who likes hand-to-hand combat, or a sharpshooter who
2. Choose a Class
or she possesses, and the tactics he or she is most likely
class
character
features
sheet
weapons, skills, saving throws, and sometimes tools.
weapons to telling a convincing lie.
Building Bruenor
Level
experience points
1. Choose a Race
most common player character races are dwarves,
subraces
identity in an important way, by establishing a general

starting at a higher level, record the additional elements
sometimes dovetail with the capabilities of certain
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Chapter 1: Step-by-Step Characters
Hit Points and Hit Dice
3. Determine Ability Scores

Strength, Dexterity,
Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma.
hit point maximum.
which abilities, and what classes consider each ability

ability scores
the highest three dice on a piece of scratch paper. Do
Proficiency Bonus
Quick Build
Each class description in chapter 3 includes a section
class, including how to assign your highest ability scores,
a background suitable to the class, and starting spells.
character sheet.
Variant: Customizing Ability Scores
Ability Score Summary

Strength
Measures: Natural athleticism, bodily power
Important for: Fighter
Racial Increases:
Mountain dwarf (+2)
Human (+1)
Dexterity
Measures:
Important for: Rogue
Racial Increases:
Elf (+2)
Human (+1)
Constitution
Measures: Health, stamina, vital force
Important for: Everyone
Racial Increases:
Dwarf (+2)
alignment
ideals.
character holds most dear, called bonds, and the
background describes where he or
character concept.
information, along with the personality information
Your Characters Abilities
Human (+1)
Intelligence
Measures: Mental acuity, information recall, analytical skill
Important for: Wizard
Racial Increases:
High elf (+1)
Human (+1)
Wisdom
Measures:
Important for: Cleric
Racial Increases:
Hill dwarf (+1)
Wood elf (+1)
Human (+1)
from a very smart character with low Strength.
Intelligence might speak simply or easily forget details.
Charisma
Measures:
Important for: Leaders and diplomatic characters
Racial Increases:
Human (+1)
4. Describe Your Character

has a heroic destinyto reclaim his homelandso
behaves in general terms.
Ability Scores and Modifiers

Score
1
23
Score
1617
2021
2223
67
believes that no one is above the law.

1011
1213
show mercy even when it might not be warranted.
+0
+1
+2
5. Choose Equipment
starting equipment
For attacks with melee weapons

gold pieces
For attacks with ranged weapons
Armor Class
Armor Class
characters wear armor or carry shields, however.
damage when it hits.
6. Come Together
plays a role within a party
Ability Score Point Cost

Score
10
11
Cost
0
1
2
3
Score
12
13
14
Cost
4
7
+6
+7
2627
Weapons
+3
+4
30
+10
Beyond 1st Level
threats to whole regions and continents.
advancement is called gaining a level.
Character Advancement
Experience Points
0
300
2,700
Level
1
2
3
4
14,000
23,000
34,000
6
7
64,000
10
11
12
13
14
100,000
120,000
140,000
16
17
at each level.
20
+2
+2
+2
+2
+3
+3
+3
+3
+4
+4
+4
+4
+6
+6
+6
+6
Tiers of Play
local farmsteads or villages.
spells at the start of this tier, crossing a new threshold of

and
characters have become important, facing dangers that

threaten cities and kingdoms.
reached a level of power that sets them high above
to make more attacks or do more impressive things with
10
Chapter 2: Races
A
Racial Traits
entries appear among the traits of most races.
Ability Score Increase

inhabitants.
ability scores.
Age
Scattered among the members of these more common
for a high Intelligence or Wisdom.
Alignment
Most races have tendencies toward certain alignments,
the Underdark, trying to make his way in a world

has more
Choosing a Race
Size
character belongs to one of these peoples.
Speed
Languages
When making this decision, keep in mind the kind of
Subraces
have the traits of the parent race in addition to the
world to world. In the Dragonlance campaign setting,
the Forgotten Realms, they live far apart in separate

kingdoms and call themselves shield dwarves and
gold dwarves, respectively.
11
D&D Basic Rules v1.0 | Chapter 2: Races
Dwarf
Y , !
voice. Bruenor Battlehammer walked up the back of his
dead foe, disregarding the fact that the heavy monster lay
on top of his elven friend. In spite of the added discomfort,
the dwarfs long, pointed, often-broken nose and graystreaked though still-fiery red beard came as a welcome
sight to Drizzt. Knew Id find ye in trouble if I came out
an looked for ye!
R. A. Salvatore, The Crystal Shard
Clans and Kingdoms
dwarves this love festers into avarice. Whatever wealth
who live far from their own kingdoms cherish their clan
Short and Stout
Dwarves in other lands are typically artisans,

especially weaponsmiths, armorers, and jewelers. Some
Bold and hardy, dwarves are known as skilled warriors,
Gods, Gold, and Clan

also easily a match for any of the larger folk.
Dwarven skin ranges from deep brown to a paler
help others. Other dwarves are driven by the command

or inspiration of a deity, a direct calling or simply a
light brown or deep tan, like certain tones of earth.
Long Memory, Long Grudges

Slow to Trust
Dwarves get along passably well with most other races. The
hundred years, is a dwarf saying that might be hyperbole,
Elves. Its not wise to depend on the elves. No telling what
an elf will do next; when the hammer meets the orcs head,
theyre as apt to start singing as to pull out a sword. Theyre
They dont have many smiths, but the ones they have do very
of their clans, tracing their ancestry back to the
labor, skill in battle, and devotion to the forge.

their word and decisive in action, sometimes to the point
out of the mountains, an elf s good to have at your back. Not

as good as a dwarf, maybe, but no doubt they hate the orcs
as much as we do.
Sure, theyre pleasant folk. But show me a
take them seriously?
You take the time to get to know a human, and
by then the humans on her deathbed. If youre lucky, shes
got kina daughter or granddaughter, maybewhos got
hands and heart as good as hers. Thats when you can make
something, theyll get it, whether its a dragons hoard or an
empires throne. You have to admire that kind of dedication,
even if it gets them in trouble more often than not.
12
Dwarf Names
Subrace.
Hill Dwarf
dwarven name in its place.
Male Names:
Female Names:
the Dragonlance setting.

Ability Score Increase.
increases by 1.
Dwarven Toughness.
gain a level.
Clan Names: Balderk, Battlehammer, Brawnanvil,
Mountain Dwarf
Dwarf Traits
increases by 2.
Age.

increases by 2.
Dwarven Armor Training.
Duergar
Alignment.
toward good as well, with a strong sense of fair play and
Size.
Speed.
Darkvision.
Dwarven Resilience.
Dwarven Combat Training.

and warhammer.
Stonecunning.
Languages.
13
In cities deep in the Underdark live the duergar, or gray

dwarves. These vicious, stealthy slave traders raid the surface
world for captives, then sell their prey to the other races of
the Underdark. They have innate magical abilities to become
invisible and to temporarily grow to giant size.
Elf
I ,
Goldmoon said softly. The days march had been difficult,
but the reward at the end was beyond their dreams.
The companions stood on a high cliff over the fabled
city of Qualinost.
Four slender spires rose from the citys corners like glistening spindles, their brilliant white stone marbled with shining
silver. Graceful arches, swooping from spire to spire, soared
through the air. Crafted by ancient dwarven metalsmiths,
they were strong enough to hold the weight of an army, yet
they appeared so delicate that a bird lighting on them might
overthrow the balance. These glistening arches were the
citys only boundaries; there was no wall around Qualinost.
The elven city opened its arms lovingly to the wilderness.
Margaret Weis & Tracy Hickman,
Dragons of Autumn Twilight
or in silvery spires glittering with faerie light, where
Haughty but Gracious

even to those who fall short of their high expectations
of the world.
Slender and Graceful
about anyone.
Dwarves. Dwarves are dull, clumsy oafs. But what they
lack in humor, sophistication, and manners, they make up in
approaches elven quality.
that is not a quality to scorn. Theyre good folk, they care
for each other and tend their gardens, and they have proven
themselves tougher than they seem when the need arises.
marginally heavier than females.
accomplish something before their brief lives pass away

human endeavors seem so futile sometimes. But then
you look at what they have accomplished, and you have to
appreciate their achievements. If only they could slow down
Exploration and Adventure

bright colors, and they enjoy simple yet lovely jewelry.
A Timeless Perspective
oppression, and others might become champions of
make friends and enemies, and even slower to forget
Elf Names
birthday, and before this period they are called by
child names.
the need arises, elves reveal a stern martial side,

demonstrating skill with sword, bow, and strategy.
Hidden Woodland Realms
only general tendencies. In addition, every elf bears a
Most elves dwell in small forest villages hidden among

vegetables, and their skill and magic allow them to
Child Names:
Male Adult Names:
teach swordplay or magic to their children.
Female Adult Names:
14
Subrace.
Family Names (Common Translations):
Elf Traits
High Elf
at least the basics of magic. In many of the worlds of

increases by 2.
Age.
Alignment.
and other races.
freedom as well as their own, and they are more often

good than not.
Size.
Speed.
Darkvision.
were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light.

Keen Senses.
Fey Ancestry.
Trance.

increases by 1.
Elf Weapon Training.
longsword, shortsword, shortbow, and longbow.
Cantrip.
ability for it.
Extra Language.
Wood Elf
Languages.
Dragonlance, as well as the races called wood elves in
The Darkness of the Drow

Were it not for one renowned exception, the race of drow
would be universally reviled. Their depraved society is
sanctions murder and the extermination of entire families as
noble houses vie for position. Drow grow up believing that
Yet one drow, at least, broke the mold. In the world of the
Forgotten Realms, Drizzt DoUrden, ranger of the North, has
and innocent.
15

increases by 1.
Elf Weapon Training.
longsword, shortsword, shortbow, and longbow.
Fleet of Foot.
Mask of the Wild.
Halfling
R ,
hundreds of miles in any direction, locked his fingers behind his head and leaned back against the mossy blanket
of the tree trunk. Regis was short, even by the standards
of his diminutive race, with the fluff of his curly brown
locks barely cresting the three-foot mark, but his belly was
amply thickened by his love of a good meal, or several, as
the opportunities presented themselves. The crooked stick
that served as his fishing pole rose up above him, clenched
between two of his toes, and hung out over the quiet lake,
mirrored perfectly in the glassy surface of Maer Dualdon.
R.A. Salvatore, The Crystal Shard
what they have even in lean times.
Blend into the Crowd
display remarkable ferocity when their friends, families,
Pastoral Pleasantries
traditional ways despite the rise and fall of empires.
Small and Practical
permanent home.
Exploring Opportunities
in the shadow of empires and on the edges of wars and
sometimes a necessity.
Halfling Names
a nickname. Family names are often nicknames that
simple, comfortable, and practical clothes, favoring
bright colors.
Male Names:
Finnan, Garret, Lindal, Lyle, Merric, Milo, Osborn,
Female Names:
to a problem, and have little patience for dithering.
Family Names:
Kind and Curious

cherish the bonds of family and friendship as well
as the comforts of hearth and home, harboring few
16
Halfling Traits
increases by 2.
Age.
Alignment.
they are good-hearted and kind, hate to see others in
make sweeping generalizationsespecially negative ones.

Dwarves. Dwarves make loyal friends, and you can count
on them to keep their word. But would it hurt them to smile
once in a while?
Elves.
grace and all. Its like they stepped out of a wonderful dream.
But theres no telling whats going on behind their smiling
facessurely more than they ever let on.
of them are. Step out of the castles and keeps, go talk to the
also very orderly and traditional, leaning heavily on

theres anything wrong with the barons and soldiersyou
their old ways.

Size.
Speed.
Lucky.
lands, they protect us as well.
Stout Resilience.
against poison damage.
Brave.
being frightened.
Languages.
are traveling.
Subrace.
Human
T
long ago took to the seas and rivers in longboats, first to
pillage and terrorize, then to settle. Yet there was an energy,
a love of adventure, that sang from every page. Long into
the night Liriel read, lighting candle after precious candle.
Shed never given much thought to humans, but these
stories fascinated her. In these yellowed pages were tales of
bold heroes, strange and fierce animals, mighty primitive gods,
and a magic that was part and fabric of that distant land.
Elaine Cunningham, Daughter of the Drow
Lightfoot
world scene and short-lived in comparison to dwarves,
the years they are given. Or maybe they feel they have

increases by 1.
are the innovators, the achievers, and the pioneers

of the worlds.
A Broad Spectrum
Stout
from nearly black to very pale, and hair colors from

increases by 1.
17
Variety in All Things
Everyones Second-Best Friends

Just as readily as they mix with each other, humans mingle
with members of other races. They get along with almost
everyone, though they might not be close to many. Humans
serve as ambassadors, diplomats, magistrates, merchants,
and functionaries of all kinds.
Dwarves. Theyre stout folk, stalwart friends, and true to
their word. Their greed for gold is their downfall, though.
Elves. Its best not to wander into elven woods. They dont
like intruders, and youll as likely be bewitched as peppered
with arrows. Still, if an elf can get past that damned racial
pride and actually treat you like an equal, you can learn a
lot from them.
long as you dont crack your head on the ceilinggood food
they stay alert to changing political and social dynamics.
Lasting Institutions
a shred of ambition, they might really amount to something.
Where a single elf or dwarf might take on the
Calishite
Calishite Names:
they will be remembered when they are gone.
Exemplars of Ambition
Chondathan
brown hair that ranges from almost blond to almost
black. Most are tall and have green or brown eyes,
by amassing power, wealth, and fame. More than

Chondathan Names:
Human Names and Ethnicities
Damaran
their ancestors.
is most common.
Damaran Names:
in the northwestern lands of the Silver Marches than
of the Silver Marches have every possible variation of
18
Illuskan
Turami Names:
light brown hair.

Illuskan Names:
Mulan
Human Traits
increase by 1.
Age.
Alignment.
Size.
Mulan Names:
Speed.
Languages.
Rashemi
military phrases, and so on.
Variant Human Traits

eyes, and thick black hair.
Rashemi Names:
If your campaign uses the optional feat rules from the

Players Handbook, your Dungeon Master might allow these
Increase trait.
choice increase by 1.
Stayanoga, Ulmokina
Shou
the given name.

Shou Names:
Tethyrian
Turami
19
You gain one feat of your choice.
Chapter 3: Classes
A ,
thirst
Cleric
dark places of the world and take on the challenges that
on his lips, an elf begins to glow with an inner light that
they serve, clerics strive to embody the handiwork of

divine magic.
Healers and Warriors
devotees who share his faith.
inspiring their allies with spells that harm and hinder
the
.
their combat training to let them wade into melee with
the power of the gods on their side.
for
Divine Agents
cleric. Some priests are called to a simple life of temple
are rare in most hierarchies.
Classes
Class
Cleric
Description
Hit
Die
Primary
Ability
Wisdom
magic in service of a higher power

Fighter
d10
a variety of weapons and armor
Rogue
Strength
or Dexterity
Dexterity
and trickery to overcome

obstacles and enemies
Wizard
d6
manipulating the structures of reality
Saving Throw
Armor and Weapon

Light and medium armor, shields,
simple weapons
martial weapons
Light armor, simple weapons,
hand crossbows, longswords,
rapiers, shortswords
Intelligence
light crossbows
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Chapter 3: Classes
20
Quick Build
of the gods often involves braving dangers beyond the
rampaging orcs, negotiating peace between warring
Class Features
prince to enter the world.
Hit Points
position to demand it.
Hit Dice:
Hit Points at 1st Level:
Hit Points at Higher Levels:
Creating a Cleric
Proficiencies
Armor:
Weapons:
Tools:
Saving Throws:
Skills:
Equipment
The Cleric
Level
1st
2nd
Bonus
+2
+2
3rd
4th
+2
+2
+3
+3
6th
7th
10th
11th
12th
13th
14th
21
+3
+3
+4
+4
+4
+4
Features
Spellcasting, Divine Domain
Channel Divinity (1/rest),
Divine Domain feature
Destroy Undead (CR 1/2)

Channel Divinity (2/rest),
(CR 1), Divine Domain feature
Divine Intervention
Destroy Undead (CR 2)
Destroy Undead (CR 3)
16th
17th
+6
20th
+6
+6
+6
Destroy Undead (CR 4),

Channel Divinity (3/rest)
Divine Intervention improvement
Spell Slots per Spell Level
Cantrips
Known
3
3
1st
2
3
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
6th
7th
8th
9th
3
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
2
3
3
3
2
3
4
4
4
4
3
3
3
3
1
2
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
4
4
4
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
Divine Domain
simple weapon
Spellcasting
domain is detailed at the end of the class description

the
for details on all the domains.
chapter 11 for a selection of cleric spells.
Cantrips
Domain Spells
Preparing and Casting Spells
Channel Divinity
spell slots.
levels, as noted in the domain description.
1st-level and two 2nd-level spell slots. With a Wisdom
the 1st-level spell
Spellcasting Ability
Channel Divinity: Turn Undead
attack roll with one.

Spell save DC
your Wisdom modifier
= your proficiency bonus +
your Wisdom modifier
Ritual Casting
the Dodge action.
Ability Score Improvement
Spellcasting Focus
22
Destroy Undead
caring for those in need, and driving away the forces of
instantly destroyed if its challenge rating is at or below a

certain threshold, as shown in the Destroy Undead table.
Destroy Undead
Cleric Level
11th
14th
17th
Destroys Undead of CR . . .
1/2 or lower
1 or lower
2 or lower
3 or lower
4 or lower
Divine Intervention
Life Domain Spells

Cleric Level Spells
1st
bless, cure wounds
3rd
lesser restoration, spiritual weapon
beacon of hope, revivify
7th
death ward, guardian of faith
mass cure wounds, raise dead
Bonus Proficiency
Disciple of Life
Channel Divinity: Preserve Life
Divine Domains
Blessed Healer
Divine Strike
matter of personal preference, the aspect of the deity
from the worlds of the Forgotten Realms, Greyhawk,
Supreme Healing
Life Domain
23
Fighter
Creating a Fighter
best advantage.
swings two scimitars in a blinding whirl as she circles

the ogre, looking for a blind spot in its defenses.
academy, learning strategy, tactics, and military history.
his trident and net, skilled at toppling foes and moving
forth to smite him.

diverse class of characters in the worlds of
most important possessionsthe only things that stand
champions, elite foot soldiers, hardened mercenaries,
Quick Build
Well-Rounded Specialists
Class Features
adept with shields and every form of armor. Beyond that
certain style of combat. Some concentrate on archery,
Hit Points
Hit Dice:
Proficiencies
Trained for Danger
Armor:
Weapons: Simple weapons, martial weapons
Tools:
Saving Throws:
Skills:
Equipment
martial weapons
24
Fighting Style
Martial Archetype
get to choose again.
for information
Archery
ranged weapons.
Defense
Dueling
with that weapon.
Great Weapon Fighting
Extra Attack
Indomitable
Protection
a long rest.
Two-Weapon Fighting
The Fighter
Second Wind
Action Surge
Level
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
6th
7th
10th
11th
12th
13th
14th
Bonus
+2
+2
+2
+2
+3
+3
+3
+3
+4
+4
+4
+4
Features
Fighting Style, Second Wind
Indomitable (one use)
Indomitable (two uses)
16th
17th
+6
20th
+6
+6
+6
(three uses)
25
Martial Archetypes
Rogue
Champion
the door open.
of raw physical power honed to deadly perfection.
devastating blows.
Improved Critical
Remarkable Athlete
Additional Fighting Style
In a moment, the keys are in her hand, the cell door is

open, and she and her companions are free to make
their escape.
Skill and Precision

a variety of skills as they do to perfecting their combat
Superior Critical
Survivor
disarming traps, and opening locks.
A Shady Living
Some are hardened criminals who decide to seek their
26
Expertise
Creating a Rogue
or some other desire or ideal?
Sneak Attack
new possibilities for earning a living and employing

attack roll.
Quick Build
Thieves Cant
hide messages in seemingly normal conversation. Only
Class Features
a message than it does to speak the same idea plainly.
Hit Points
Hit Dice:
people in an area are easy marks or will provide a safe
Proficiencies
Cunning Action
Armor: Light armor

Weapons: Simple weapons, hand crossbows,
longswords, rapiers, shortswords
Tools:
Saving Throws:
Skills:
Deception, Insight, Intimidation, Investigation,
Roguish Archetype
Equipment

a shortsword
c
27
Stroke of Luck
The Rogue
Level
1st
Bonus
+2
2nd
3rd
4th
+2
+2
+2
+3
+3
+3
+3
+4
+4
+4
+4
Sneak
Attack
1d6
Features
Thieves Cant
6th
7th
10th
11th
12th
13th
14th
16th
17th
20th
+6
+6
+6
+6
1d6
2d6
2d6
3d6
3d6
4d6
4d6
6d6
6d6
7d6
7d6
Uncanny Dodge
Expertise
Evasion
Roguish Archetypes
emphasis on perfecting their skills, their precise and
Reliable Talent
Blindsense
Slippery Mind
Thief
Elusive
10d6
10d6
Stroke of Luck
Uncanny Dodge
Fast Hands
Evasion
breath or an
disarm a trap or open a lock, or take the Use an

Object action.
Second-Story Work
Reliable Talent
Supreme Sneak
Blindsense
Use Magic Device
Slippery Mind
of magic items.
Thiefs Reflexes
Elusive
incapacitated.
28
Wizard
Scholars of the Arcane

its mysteries. Some aspire to become like the gods,
an intricate magic circle in chalk on the bare stone
plane beyond.
steeped in magic.
The Lure of Knowledge

he nods slowly, then opens his eyes and points down the
passage to his left.
their services as diviners, serve in military forces, or
down from the sky, or open portals to other worlds.

been lost to the ages, and discovering those secrets
available in the present age.
The Wizard
Level
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
6th
7th
10th
11th
12th
13th
14th
Bonus
+2
+2
+2
+2
+3
+3
+3
+3
+4
+4
+4
+4
Features
16th
17th
20th
29
+6
+6
+6
+6
Spell Mastery
Signature Spell
Cantrips
Known
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
4
Spell Slots per Spell Level

1st
2
3
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
2nd
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3rd
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
4th
1
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
5th
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
3
3
3
6th
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
7th
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
8th
1
1
1
1
1
1
9th
1
1
1
1
Creating a Wizard
Cantrips
Spellbook
basics of magic?
Preparing and Casting Spells
magical skills to the test in the face of danger.
Quick Build
, and
,
, and
cantrips, along with
Class Features
spell
Hit Points
Hit Dice:
Proficiencies
Armor:
Weapons:
light crossbows
Tools:
Saving Throws: Intelligence, Wisdom
Skills:
Investigation, Medicine, and Religion
Equipment
and when making an attack roll with one.

Spell save DC =
your Intelligence modifier
= your proficiency bonus +
your Intelligence modifier
Ritual Casting
Spellcasting
Spellcasting Focus
30
Learning Spells of 1st Level and Higher
Arcane Recovery
Arcane Traditions
them into eight categories called schools, as described
into schools as a learning device, since the spells of
a 2nd-level spell slot or two 1st-level spell slots.
School of Evocation
Arcane Tradition
serving as artillery to blast enemy armies from afar.
or aspiring tyrants.
for information on the other schools.
Evocation Savant

Sculpt Spells
Spell Mastery
Potent Cantrip
same levels.
Signature Spells
31
Empowered Evocation
Overchannel
Your Spellbook
The spells that you add to your spellbook as you gain levels
as intellectual breakthroughs you have had about the nature
of the multiverse. You might find other spells during your
adventures. You could discover a spell recorded on a scroll in
an evil wizards chest, for example, or in a dusty tome in an
ancient library.
When you find a wizard spell
of 1st level or higher, you can add it to your spellbook if it is
of a level for which you have spell slots and if you can spare
the time to decipher and copy it.
Copying a spell into your spellbook involves reproducing
the basic form of the spell, then deciphering the unique
system of notation used by the wizard who wrote it. You
must practice the spell until you understand the sounds
or gestures required, then transcribe it into your spellbook
using your own notation.
For each level of the spell, the process takes 2 hours and
expend as you experiment with the spell to master it, as well
as the fine inks you need to record it. Once you have spent
this time and money, you can prepare the spell just like your
other spells.
You can copy a spell from your own
spellbook into another bookfor example, if you want
to make a backup copy of your spellbook. This is just like
copying a new spell into your spellbook, but faster and easier,
since you understand your own notation and already know
how to cast the spell. You need spend only 1 hour and 10 gp
for each level of the copied spell.
If you lose your spellbook, you can use the same procedure
to transcribe the spells that you have prepared into a new
spellbook. Filling out the remainder of your spellbook
requires you to find new spells to do so, as normal. For this
reason, many wizards keep backup spellbooks in a safe place.
Your spellbook is a unique
margin notes. It might be a plain, functional leather volume
that you received as a gift from your master, a finely bound
loose collection of notes scrounged together after you lost
your previous spellbook in a mishap.
32
Chapter 4: Personality and Background

interests, connections, and capabilities beyond those
presents herself as a man, a man who feels trapped in a

female body, or a bearded female dwarf who hates being
points of personality and alignment.
Character Details
Height and Weight
Name
Sex
Random Height and Weight
Tika and Artemis: Contrasting Characters

your character apart from every other character. Consider the
Hailing from the Dragonlance setting, Tika Waylan was a
brash teenager who had a rough childhood. The daughter of
a thief, she ran away from home and practiced her fathers
trade on the streets of Solace. When she tried to rob the
proprietor of the Inn of the Last Home, he caught her and
took her under his wing, giving her a job as a barmaid. But
when the dragonarmies laid waste to the town of Solace
and destroyed the inn, necessity forced Tika into adventure
alongside the friends shed known from her childhood. Her
weapons) combined with her history on the streets gave her
skills invaluable in her adventuring career.
Forgotten Realms. He used his wits, strength, and agility
to carve out his own territory in one of the citys hundreds
Race
Human
Base
Height
Height
+2d10
Dwarf, hill
Dwarf, mountain 4'
Elf, high
Elf, wood
+2d4
+2d4
+2d10
+2d10
+2d4
Base
Weight
110 lb.
130 lb.
100 lb.
Weight
(2d4) lb.
(2d6) lb.
(2d6) lb.
(1d4) lb.
(1d4) lb.
1 lb.
Other Physical Characteristics
notice of one of the most powerful thieves guilds in the city,

and he ascended the ranks of the guild quickly despite his
as a scar, a limp, or a tattoo.

some stolen gems. Hes a professional killer, constantly
challenging himself to improve his skills.
some experience as rogues), possessing similarly high
Strength and Dexterity scores, but there the similarity ends.
33
D&D Basic Rules v1.0 | Chapter 4: Personality and Background
Alignment
has an alignment, which broadly describes
Tika and Artemis: Alignment

combinations.
that typical behavior, and few people are perfectly and

Lawful good
evil, unconcerned with the value of sentient life but at least

professional in his approach to murder.
began his career as a villain, and only cooperates with heroes
when he mustand when its in his own best interests. In
most games, evil adventurers cause problems in groups
alongside others who dont share their interests and objectives.
Generally, evil alignments are for villains and monsters.
Neutral good
others according to their needs. Many celestials, some
unaligned.
Chaotic good
Lawful neutral
with law, tradition, or personal codes. Many monks and
Languages
Neutral
Chaotic neutral
holding their personal freedom above all else.
Lawful evil
want, within the limits of a code of tradition, loyalty, or
Neutral evil
Standard Languages
Chaotic evil
Demons, red dragons, and orcs are chaotic evil.
Alignment in the Multiverse

races can choose whether to follow the paths of good or
gods who created these races gave them free will to
free will is slavery.
Language
Common
Dwarvish
Elvish
Giant
Gnomish
Goblin
Typical Speakers
Humans
Dwarves
Elves
Ogres, giants
Gnomes
Goblinoids
Orc
Orcs
Script
Common
Dwarvish
Elvish
Dwarvish
Dwarvish
Dwarvish
Common
Dwarvish
Exotic Languages
Language
Script
Infernal
Celestial
Draconic
Deep Speech
Typical Speakers
Demons
Celestials
Dragons,
dragonborn
Mind
Infernal
Primordial
Sylvan
Undercommon
Devils
Elementals
Fey creatures
Underdark traders
Infernal
Dwarvish
Elvish
Elvish
Celestial
Draconic
34
Personal Characteristics
Flaws
Personality Traits
Inspiration
character likes, his or her past accomplishments, things
ability scores.
Gaining Inspiration
Ideals
Using Inspiration
an attack roll, saving throw, or ability check. Spending
Tika and Artemis: Character Details

personalities. Tika is a young woman determined to prove
that shes not just a kid any more, and her name makes her
with moral or ethical perspectives.
Bonds
exotic land and carries a more mysterious name.

Tika is nineteen years old at the start of her adventuring
career and has auburn hair, green eyes, fair skin with freckles,
and all wiry muscle. He has angular features and high
cheekbones, and he always seems in need of a shave. His
lifelessbetraying the emptiness of his life and soul.
35
Tika and Artemis: Personal Characteristics

dislikes boastfulness and has a fear of heights resulting
is always prepared for the worst and moves with a quick,
Consider their ideals. Tika Waylan is innocent, almost
childlike, believing in the value of life and the importance of
appreciating everyone. Neutral good in alignment, she cleaves
his emotions to master him, and he constantly challenges
himself to improve his skills. His lawful evil alignment gives
him ideals of impartiality and a lust for power.
Tika Waylans bond is to the Inn of the Last Home. The
inns proprietor gave her a new chance at life, and her
friendship with her adventuring companions was forged
during her time working there. Its destruction by the
marauding dragonarmies gives Tika a very personal reason to
Proficiencies
Languages
as I will do whatever it takes to punish the dragonarmies for

the destruction of the Inn of the Last Home.
relationship with Drizzt DoUrden, his equal in swordplay
Equipment
might have led a life more like the heroic drows. From that
antihero, driven by his rivalry with Drizzt. His bond might be
phrased as I will not rest until I have proved myself better
than Drizzt DoUrden.
Suggested Characteristics
Tika Waylan is naive and emotionally vulnerable, younger

than her companions and annoyed that they still think
of her as the kid they knew years ago. She might even be
tempted to act against her principles if shes convinced that
a particular achievement would demonstrate her maturity.
characteristics, roll dice to determine them randomly, or
Customizing a Background
relationship and just wants to be left alone.
another player for good roleplaying, clever thinking, or

another player character does something that really
inspiration.
Backgrounds
Tika and Artemis: Backgrounds
as street urchins. Tikas later career as a barmaid didnt really
change her, so she might choose the urchin background,
thievery and poison.
have
36
Acolyte
d8
1
intermediary between the realm of the holy and the
clericperforming sacred rites is not the same thing as

channeling divine power.
Personality Trait
I idolize a particular hero of my faith, and constantly
refer to that persons deeds and example.
enemies, empathizing with them and always working

toward peace.
I see omens in every event and action. The gods try to
speak to us, we just need to listen
Nothing can shake my optimistic attitude.
I quote (or misquote) sacred texts and proverbs in
almost every situation.
I am tolerant (or intolerant) of other faiths and respect
(or condemn) the worship of other gods.
7
my temples elite. Rough living grates on me.
Ive spent so long in the temple that I have little
practical experience dealing with people in the
outside world.
Insight, Religion
Languages:
Equipment:
Feature: Shelter of the Faithful
d6
1
Ideal
Tradition. The ancient traditions of worship and
Charity. I always try to help those in need, no matter

what the personal cost. (Good)
Change. We must help bring about the changes the
gods are constantly working in the world. (Chaotic)
Power. I hope to one day rise to the top of my faiths
religious hierarchy. (Lawful)
Faith. I trust that my deity will guide my actions. I have
faith that if I work hard, things will go well. (Lawful)
Aspiration. I seek to prove myself worthy of my gods
favor by matching my actions against his or her
3
4
care at a temple, shrine, or other established presence

6
modest lifestyle.
d6
1
2
3
4
6
and tenets of their faith and their relationships to
hypocrisy or heretical idea, or an ideal or bond taken
d6
1
2
3
Bond
I would die to recover an ancient relic of my faith that
was lost long ago.
I will someday get revenge on the corrupt temple
hierarchy who branded me a heretic.
I owe my life to the priest who took me in when my
parents died.
Everything I do is for the common people.
I will do anything to protect the temple where I served.
I seek to preserve a sacred text that my enemies
consider heretical and seek to destroy.
Flaw
I judge others harshly, and myself even more severely.
I put too much trust in those who wield power within
my temples hierarchy.
My piety sometimes leads me to blindly trust those
that profess faith in my god.
37
I am suspicious of strangers and expect the

worst of them.
Once I pick a goal, I become obsessed with it to the
detriment of everything else in my life.
Criminal
d8
1
other criminals and still have contacts within the
Personality Trait
I always have a plan for what to do when
things go wrong.
I am always calm, no matter what the situation. I never
raise my voice or let my emotions control me.
Deception, Stealth
One type of gaming set,
Equipment:
Criminal Specialty
preferences for certain kinds of crimes over others.
d6
1
2
on the table below.

d8
1
2
3
4
Specialty
Blackmailer
Burglar
Enforcer
Fence
d8
6
7
Specialty
Highway robber
Hired killer
Pickpocket
Smuggler
Feature: Criminal Contact
3
4
d6
1
of everything valuableor where such things

could be hidden.
I would rather make a new friend than a new enemy.
I am incredibly slow to trust. Those who seem the
fairest often have the most to hide.
I dont pay attention to the risks in a situation. Never
tell me the odds.
The best way to get me to do something is to tell me I
cant do it.
I blow up at the slightest insult.
Ideal
Honor. I dont steal from others in the trade. (Lawful)
Freedom. Chains are meant to be broken, as are those
who would forge them. (Chaotic)
Charity. I steal from the wealthy so that I can help
people in need. (Good)
Greed. I will do whatever it takes to become
wealthy. (Evil)
People. Im loyal to my friends, not to any ideals, and
everyone else can take a trip down the Styx for all I
care. (Neutral)
Redemption. Theres a spark of good in
everyone. (Good)
Bond
generous benefactor.
2
3
4
Variant Criminal: Spy
d6
1
2
3
4
Something important was taken from me, and I aim to

steal it back.
I will become the greatest thief that ever lived.
Im guilty of a terrible crime. I hope I can redeem
myself for it.
Someone I loved died because of I mistake I made.
That will never happen again.
Flaw
When I see something valuable, I cant think about
anything but how to steal it.
When faced with a choice between money and my
friends, I usually choose the money.
If theres a plan, Ill forget it. If I dont forget it,
Ill ignore it.
I have a tell that reveals when Im lying.
I turn tail and run when things look bad.
6
committed. Im okay with that.
38
Folk Hero
monsters that threaten the common folk everywhere.
d8
1
2
3
Personality Trait
I judge people by their actions, not their words.
If someone is in trouble, Im always ready to lend help.
When I set my mind to something, I follow through no
matter what gets in my way.
4
the most equitable solution to arguments.
Equipment:
a shovel, an iron pot, a set of common clothes, and a
6
7
Thinking is for other people. I prefer action.

I misuse long words in an attempt to sound smarter.
I get bored easily. When am I going to get on
with my destiny?
d6
1
Ideal
Respect. People deserve to be treated with dignity and
respect. (Good)
Fairness. No one should get preferential treatment
before the law, and no one is above the law. (Lawful)
Freedom. Tyrants must not be allowed to oppress the
people. (Chaotic)
Might. If I become strong, I can take what I want
what I deserve. (Evil)
Sincerity. Theres no good in pretending to be
something Im not. (Neutral)
Destiny. Nothing and no one can steer me away from
Defining Event
the peasantry, perhaps as a farmer, miner, servant,
2
3
d10
1
2
3
4
I stood up to a tyrants agents.

I saved people during a natural disaster.
I stood alone against a terrible monster.
I stole from a corrupt merchant to help the poor.
6
6
7
10
I broke into a tyrants castle and stole weapons to

arm the people.
I trained the peasantry to use farm implements as
weapons against a tyrants soldiers.
d6
1
symbolic act of protest against it.
or revealed my secret origin.

Recruited into a lords army, I rose to leadership and
was commended for my heroism.
3
4
Feature: Rustic Hospitality

6
d6
1
will take my revenge on any bully I encounter.

My tools are symbols of my past life, and I carry them
so that I will never forget my roots.
I protect those who cannot protect themselves.
I wish my childhood sweetheart had come with me to
pursue my destiny.
Flaw
The tyrant who rules my land will stop at nothing to
see me killed.
2
3
39
Bond
I have a family, but I have no idea where they are. One
day, I hope to see them again.
I worked the land, I love the land, and I will
protect the land.
blind to my shortcomings and the risk of failure.

The people who knew me when I was young know my
shameful secret, so I can never go home again.
I have a weakness for the vices of the city,
especially hard drink.
Secretly, I believe that things would be better if I were a
tyrant lording over the land.
I have trouble trusting in my allies.
Sage
d8
1
2
3
Languages:
Equipment:
4
have not yet been able to answer, a set of common

6
Specialty
7
d8
1
2
3
4
Specialty
Discredited
academic
Librarian
d8
6
7
Specialty
Professor
Researcher
Wizards apprentice
Scribe
Feature: Researcher
d6
1
2
3
4
almost inaccessible place, or that it simply cannot be
sometimes in its own right, sometimes as a means

toward other ideals.
d6
1
2
3
Personality Trait
I use polysyllabic words that convey the impression of
great erudition.
Ive read every book in the worlds greatest libraries
or I like to boast that I have.
Im used to helping out those who arent as smart
as I am, and I patiently explain anything and
everything to others.
Theres nothing I like more than a good mystery.
Im willing to listen to every side of an argument before
I make my own judgment.
I . . . speak . . . slowly . . . when talking . . . to idiots, . . .
which . . . almost . . . everyone . . . is . . . compared . . .
to me.
I am horribly, horribly awkward in social situations.
Im convinced that people are always trying to
steal my secrets.
Ideal
Knowledge.
is through knowledge. (Neutral)
Beauty. What is beautiful points us beyond itself
toward what is true. (Good)
Logic. Emotions must not cloud our logical
thinking. (Lawful)
No Limits.
inherent in all existence. (Chaotic)
Power. Knowledge is the path to power and
domination. (Evil)
Self-Improvement. The goal of a life of study is the
Bond
It is my duty to protect my students.
I have an ancient text that holds terrible secrets that
must not fall into the wrong hands.
I work to preserve a library, university, scriptorium,
or monastery.
d6
1
2
3
4
Ive been searching my whole life for the answer to a

certain question.
I sold my soul for knowledge. I hope to do great deeds
and win it back.
Flaw
I am easily distracted by the promise of information.
Most people scream and run when they see a demon. I
stop and take notes on its anatomy.
Unlocking an ancient mystery is worth the price of a
civilization.
I overlook obvious solutions in favor of
complicated ones.
I speak without really thinking through my words,
invariably insulting others.
I cant keep a secret to save my life, or anyone elses.
40
Soldier
d8
1
2
3
might have been part of a standing national army or a

mercenary company, or perhaps a member of a local
6
7
d6
1
Equipment:
2
3
Specialty
6
d8
1
2
3
4
Specialty
Scout
Infantry
Cavalry
Healer
d8
6
7
Specialty
Quartermaster
Standard bearer
(cook, blacksmith,
or the like)
Feature: Military Rank
I enjoy being strong and like breaking things.

I have a crude sense of humor.
the best path to success.
private army, or a mercenary company.

One type of gaming set,
Personality Trait
Im always polite and respectful.
Im haunted by memories of war. I cant get the images
of violence out of my mind.
Ive lost too many friends, and Im slow to
make new ones.
Im full of inspiring and cautionary tales from
my military experience relevant to almost every
combat situation.
d6
1
Ideal
Greater Good. Our lot is to lay down our lives in
defense of others. (Good)
Responsibility. I do what I must and obey just
authority. (Lawful)
Independence. When people follow orders blindly, they
embrace a kind of tyranny. (Chaotic)
Might. In life as in war, the stronger force wins. (Evil)
Live and Let Live. Ideals arent worth killing over or
going to war for. (Neutral)
Nation. My city, nation, or people are all that
Bond
I would still lay down my life for the people I
served with.
2
3
4
will never leave a friend behind.

My honor is my life.
Ill never forget the crushing defeat my company
6
d6
1
2
3
military service leave their mark on all soldiers, shaping

their ideals, creating strong bonds, and often leaving
4
6
41
Flaw
The monstrous enemy we faced in battle still leaves
me quivering with fear.
I have little respect for anyone who is not a
proven warrior.
I made a terrible mistake in battle that cost many
livesand I would do anything to keep that
mistake secret.
My hatred of my enemies is blind and unreasoning.
I obey the law, even if the law causes misery.
Id rather eat my armor than admit when Im wrong.
Chapter 5: Equipment

Coinage
based on the relative worth of the metal from which they
and practical swords.
Starting Equipment
One gold piece is worth ten silver pieces, the most
in a poor inn.
One silver piece is worth ten copper pieces, which are
from fallen empires and lost kingdoms, and they
Starting Wealth by Class

Class
Cleric
Fighter
Rogue
Wizard
Standard Exchange Rates

Funds
4d4 10 gp
4d4 10 gp
Wealth
Coin
Copper (cp)
Silver (sp)
Electrum (ep)
Gold (gp)
Platinum (pp)
cp
1
10
sp
1/10
1
100
1,000
10
100
ep
1
2
20
gp
1/100
1/10
1/2
1
10
pp
1/1,000
1/100
1/20
1/10
1
Selling Treasure
gemstones, trade goods, art objects, animals, and

Members of the peasantry trade in goods, bartering for
Arms, Armor, and Other Equipment.
as the rights to a mine, a port, or farmland, or in gold
fetch half their cost when sold in a market. Weapons
professional services for hire commonly deal in coins.
condition to sell.
Magic Items. Selling magic items is problematic.
wealthiest nobles. Likewise, aside from a few common
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Chapter 5: Equipment
42
Leather.
Gems, Jewelry, and Art Objects.
Studded Leather.
rivets or spikes.
Trade Goods. On the borderlands, many people
Medium Armor
objects, trade goodsbars of iron, bags of salt, livestock,
Armor and Shields

of armor types, ranging from leather armor to chain
mail to costly plate armor, with several other kinds of
Hide.
pelts. It is commonly worn by barbarian tribes, evil
and materials needed to create better armor.
Chain Shirt. Made of interlocking metal rings, a chain
Scale Mail.
properties of the common types of armor worn in the

Breastplate.
Half Plate.
leg protection beyond simple greaves that are attached
with leather straps.
Armor Class (AC).
Heavy Armor
Heavy Armor.
and are designed to stop a wide range of attacks. Only
Stealth.
Ring Mail.
Shields.
is carried in one hand. Wielding a shield increases
Chain Mail. Made of interlocking metal rings, chain
shield at a time.
Light Armor
Splint.
of metal riveted to a backing of leather that is worn over
Plate.
Padded.
cloth and batting.
43
Getting Into and Out of Armor
Variant: Equipment Sizes

In most campaigns, you can use or wear any equipment that
Don.
leather armor, and a gnome would be swallowed up in a

cloud giants elegant robe.
The DM can impose more realism. For example, a suit
Donning and Doffing Armor

Category
Shield
Don
1 minute
10 minutes
1 action
as a disguise.
1 minute
1 minute
1 action
and similar items that are made to be worn, they might need
to visit an armorsmith, tailor, leatherworker, or similar expert
to make the item wearable. The cost for such work varies
from 10 to 40 percent of the market price of the item. The
DM can either roll 1d4 10 or determine the increase in cost
based on the extent of the alterations required.
Weapons
the damage they deal when they hit, and any special
Weapon Properties
melee weapon
ranged
weapon
as shown in the Weapons table.

Ammunition.
Weapon Proficiency
categories are simple and martial. Most people can
Armor
Armor
Light Armor
Padded
Leather
Studded leather
Medium Armor
Hide
Chain shirt
Scale mail
Breastplate
Half plate
Heavy Armor
Ring mail
Chain mail
Splint
Plate
Shield
Shield
Cost
Armor Class (AC)
Strength
Stealth
Disadvantage
Disadvantage
Disadvantage
Str 13
200 gp
14
16
17
Disadvantage
Disadvantage
Disadvantage
Disadvantage
10 gp
+2
10 gp
10 gp
400 gp
30 gp
Weight
10 lb.
13 lb.
12 lb.
20 lb.
20 lb.
40 lb.
40 lb.
60 lb.
6 lb.
44
Weapons
Name
Simple Melee Weapons
Club
Dagger
Greatclub
Handaxe
Javelin
Light hammer
Mace
Sickle
Spear
Unarmed strike
Simple Ranged Weapons
Crossbow, light
Dart
Shortbow
Sling
Martial Melee Weapons
Battleaxe
Flail
Glaive
Greataxe
Greatsword
Halberd
Lance
Longsword
Maul
Morningstar
Pike
Rapier
Scimitar
Shortsword
Trident
War pick
Warhammer
Whip
Martial Ranged Weapons
Blowgun
Crossbow, hand
Crossbow, heavy
Longbow
Net
Cost
Damage
1 sp
2 gp
2 sp
1d4 bludgeoning
1d4 piercing
Weight
2 sp
1 gp
1 gp
1d6 slashing
1d6 piercing
1d4 bludgeoning
1d6 bludgeoning
1d6 bludgeoning
1d4 slashing
1d6 piercing
1 bludgeoning
2 lb.
1 lb.
10 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
4 lb.
4 lb.
2 lb.
3 lb.
1 sp
1d4 piercing
1d6 piercing
1d4 bludgeoning
1/4 lb.
2 lb.
2 gp
10 gp
10 gp
20 gp
30 gp
20 gp
10 gp
1d10 slashing
1d12 slashing
2d6 slashing
1d10 slashing
1d12 piercing
10 gp
2d6 bludgeoning
4 lb.
2 lb.
6 lb.
7 lb.
6 lb.
6 lb.
6 lb.
3 lb.
10 lb.
4 lb.
Properties
Light
Finesse, light, thrown (range 20/60)
Light, thrown (range 20/60)
Thrown (range 30/120)
Light, thrown (range 20/60)
Light
Finesse, thrown (range 20/60)
Versatile (1d10)
Reach, special
Versatile (1d10)
1d10 piercing
10 gp
1d6 slashing
1d6 piercing
1d6 piercing
2 gp
1d4 slashing
10 gp
1 piercing
1d6 piercing
1d10 piercing
1 gp
2 lb.
3 lb.
2 lb.
4 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
3 lb.
Finesse
Finesse, light
Finesse, light
Versatile (1d10)
Finesse, reach
1 lb.
3 lb.
2 lb.
3 lb.
Light.
Finesse.
Heavy.
45
Loading.
normally make.
Range.
attack has a range shown in parentheses after the
Reach.
Special.
normally make.
Thrown.
can throw the weapon to make a ranged attack. If the
Adventuring Gear
Acid.
Two-Handed.
Versatile.
treating the acid as an improvised weapon. On a hit, the

Alchemists Fire.
two hands to make a melee attack.
Improvised Weapons
frying pan, a wagon wheel, or a dead goblin.

In many cases, an improvised weapon is similar
Equipment Packs
weapon to make a melee attack, or throws a melee

weapon that does not have the thrown property, it also
feet of hempen rope strapped to the side of it.

Includes a chest, 2 cases for maps
Silvered Weapons
The starting equipment you get from your class includes a

collection of useful adventuring gear, put together in a pack.
The contents of these packs are listed here. If you are buying
your starting equipment, you can purchase a pack for the
price shown, which might be cheaper than buying the items
individually.
Includes a backpack, a bag of 1,000
sealing wax, and soap.

Includes a backpack, a crowbar,
a hammer, 10 pitons, 10 torches, a tinderbox, 10 days
hempen rope strapped to the side of it.
Includes a backpack, a bedroll,
disguise kit.
Includes a backpack, a bedroll,
a mess kit, a tinderbox, 10 torches, 10 days of rations, and
Special Weapons
Lance.
strapped to the side of it.

Includes a backpack, a blanket, 10
candles, a tinderbox, an alms box, 2 blocks of incense, a
censer, vestments, 2 days of rations, and a waterskin.
Includes a backpack, a book of lore,
a bottle of ink, an ink pen, 10 sheets of parchment, a little
bag of sand, and a small knife.
46
Adventuring Gear
Item
Cost
2 gp
Weight
2 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
Item
Holy symbol
Cost
1 lb.
2 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
Emblem
Reliquary
Ammunition
Crossbow bolts (20)

Sling bullets (20)
Arcane focus
Crystal
Orb
Rod
Wand
Backpack
Ball bearings (bag of 1,000)
Barrel
Basket
Bedroll
Bell
Blanket
Block and tackle
Book
Bottle, glass
Bucket
Caltrops (bag of 20)
Candle
Case, crossbow bolt
Case, map or scroll
Chain (10 feet)
Chalk (1 piece)
Chest
Climbers kit
Clothes, common
Clothes, costume
Clothes, travelers
Component pouch
Crowbar
Druidic focus
Sprig of mistletoe
Totem
Yew wand
Fishing tackle
Flask or tankard
Grappling hook
Hammer
Hammer, sledge
Healers kit
47
1 gp
1 gp
1 gp
4 cp
1 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
10 gp
20 gp
10 gp
1 lb.
3 lb.
2 lb.
4 lb.
1 lb.
10 gp
2 gp
1 gp
2 gp
4 sp
1 gp
1 gp
2 lb.
70 lb.
2 lb.
7 lb.
3 lb.
1 gp
2 gp
1 gp
1 cp
1 gp
1 gp
1 cp
2 gp
2 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
10 lb.
12 lb.
3 lb.
4 lb.
6 lb.
4 lb.
2 lb.
2 gp
1 gp
1 gp
10 gp
1 gp
2 cp
2 gp
1 gp
2 gp
4 lb.
1 lb.
4 lb.
1 lb.
4 lb.
3 lb.
10 lb.
3 lb.
Hourglass
Hunting trap
Ink (1 ounce bottle)
Ink pen
Jug or pitcher
Lamp
Lantern, bullseye
Lantern, hooded
Lock
Magnifying glass
Manacles
Mess kit
Mirror, steel
Paper (one sheet)
Parchment (one sheet)
Perfume (vial)
Pick, miners
Piton
Poison, basic (vial)
Pot, iron
Potion of healing
Pouch
Quiver
Ram, portable
Rations (1 day)
Robes
Sack
Scale, merchants
Sealing wax
Shovel
Signal whistle
Signet ring
Soap
Spellbook
Spikes, iron (10)
Spyglass
Tinderbox
Torch
Vial
Waterskin
Whetstone
Weight
10 gp
2 cp
2 cp
1 sp
10 gp
10 gp
100 gp
2 gp
2 sp
1 sp
2 sp
1 sp
2 gp
100 gp
2 gp
1 gp
4 gp
1 gp
1 gp
10 gp
1 cp
4 lb.
1 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
1 lb.
6 lb.
1 lb.
1/2 lb.
1 lb.
10 lb.
1/4 lb.
7 lb.
10 lb.
1/2 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
2 lb.
4 lb.
10 lb.
1/2 lb.
3 lb.
2 gp
2 cp
1 gp
1,000 gp
2 gp
1 cp
1 gp
2 sp
1 cp
3 lb.
1 lb.
20 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
Antitoxin.
gains advantage on saving throws against poison for 1
Arcane Focus.
a wand-like length of wood, or some similar item
of the
Fishing Tackle.
line, corkwood bobbers, steel hooks, lead sinkers, velvet
Healers Kit.
Ball Bearings.
Holy Symbol.
engraved or inlaid as an emblem on a shield, or a tiny

Block and Tackle.
Book.
in hand, wear it visibly, or bear it on a shield.

Holy Water.
of lore, diagrams and notes on gnomish contraptions,
the holy water as an improvised weapon. If the target is

Caltrops.
saving throw or stop moving and take 1 piercing

Hunting Trap.
make the saving throw.
Candle.
Case, Crossbow Bolt.
to twenty crossbow bolts.
Case, Map or Scroll.
free of the trap, its movement is limited by the length
sheets of parchment.
Chain.
Climbers Kit.
Lamp.
Lantern, Bullseye.
Component Pouch.
to hold all the material components and other special
Lantern, Hooded.
Crowbar. Using a crowbar grants advantage

Lock.
can be applied.
Druidic Focus.
mistletoe or holly, a wand or scepter made of yew or
for higher prices.
Magnifying Glass.
48
Spellbook.
Spyglass.
ability check made to appraise or inspect an item that is
small or highly detailed.
Manacles.
Tent.
tent sleeps two.
Tinderbox.
Torch.
Mess Kit.
shallow bowl.
Oil.
an improvised weapon. On a hit, the target is covered
Poison, Basic.
Container Capacity
Container
Backpack*
Barrel
Basket
Bottle
Bucket
Chest
Flask or tankard
Jug or pitcher
Pot, iron
Pouch
Sack
Vial
Waterskin
Capacity
1 cubic foot/30 pounds of gear
40 gallons liquid, 4 cubic feet solid
2 cubic feet/40 pounds of gear
1 pints liquid
3 gallons liquid, 1/2 cubic foot solid
12 cubic feet/300 pounds of gear
1 pint liquid
1 gallon liquid
1 gallon liquid
1 cubic foot/30 pounds of gear
4 ounces liquid
4 pints liquid
* You can also strap items, such as a bedroll or a coil of rope,

to the outside of a backpack.
Tools
Potion of Healing.
or administering a potion takes an action.
Pouch.
Quiver.
Ram, Portable.
Rations.
Rope. Rope, whether made of hemp or silk, has 2 hit

Scale, Merchants.
goods, to help determine their worth.
49
Tools
Item
Artisans tools
Brewers supplies
Calligrapher's supplies
Carpenters tools
Cartographers tools
Cobblers tools
Cooks utensils
Glassblowers tools
Jewelers tools
Leatherworkers tools
Masons tools
Painters supplies
Potters tools
Smiths tools
Tinkers tools
Weavers tools
Woodcarvers tools
Disguise kit
Forgery kit
Gaming set
Dice set
Dragonchess set
Playing card set
Cost
Shawm
Viol
Navigators tools
Poisoners kit
Thieves tools
Vehicles (land or water)
Forgery Kit.
papers and parchments, pens and inks, seals and
necessary to create convincing forgeries of physical
20 gp
10 gp
6 lb.
6 lb.
Gaming Set.
1 gp
30 gp
2 lb.
10 gp
10 gp
10 gp
20 gp
Herbalism Kit.
3 lb.
10 lb.
1 gp
1 gp
3 lb.
1 sp
1 gp
1 gp
Herbalism kit
Musical instrument
Bagpipes
Drum
Dulcimer
Flute
Lute
Lyre
Horn
Weight
30 gp
6 gp
2 gp
30 gp
3 gp
12 gp
2 gp
30 gp
* See the Mounts and Vehicles section.
Musical Instrument. Several of the most common
1/2 lb.
3 lb.
6 lb.
3 lb.
10 lb.
1 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
1 lb.
1 lb.
2 lb.
2 lb.
1 lb.
*
lost at sea.
Poisoners Kit.
Thieves Tools.
handle, a set of narrow-bladed scissors, and a pair of
disarm traps or open locks.
Mounts and Vehicles
Artisans Tools.
base carrying capacity.
Disguise Kit.
their carrying capacity together.
50
Waterborne Vehicles
Barding. Barding is armor designed to protect an
Item
Galley
Keelboat
Longship
Rowboat
Sailing ship
Warship
Cost
30,000 gp
3,000 gp
10,000 gp
10,000 gp
Speed
4 mph
1 mph
3 mph
1 mph
2 mph
2 mph
Trade Goods
Saddles.
Rowed Vessels.
lakes and rivers. If going downstream, add the speed of
the goods or services that they control, and determine
Trade Goods
Mounts and Other Animals
Item
Camel
Donkey or mule
Elephant
Horse, draft
Horse, riding
Pony
Warhorse
Cost
200 gp
30 gp
400 gp
Speed
40 ft.
40 ft.
40 ft.
60 ft.
40 ft.
40 ft.
60 ft.
Carrying
Capacity
420 lb.
1,320 lb.
51
Cost
4
2 gp
100 gp
Weight
2
1 lb.
600 lb.
200 lb.
100 lb.
10 lb.
60 gp
20 gp
10 gp
4 gp
20 gp
1 sp
1 gp
2 gp
3 gp
10 gp
Tack, Harness, and Drawn Vehicles

Item
Barding
Bit and bridle
Carriage
Cart
Chariot
Feed (per day)
Saddle
Exotic
Military
Pack
Riding
Saddlebags
Sled
Stabling (per day)
Wagon
Cost
1 cp
2 cp
40 lb.
30 lb.
Goods
1 lb. of wheat
1 lb. of salt
1 lb. of iron or 1 sq. yd. of canvas
1 lb. of copper or 1 sq. yd. of cotton cloth
1 lb. of ginger or one goat
1 lb. of cinnamon or pepper, or one sheep
1 lb. of cloves or one pig
1 lb. of silver or 1 sq. yd. of linen
1 sq. yd. of silk or one cow
1 lb. of gold
1 lb. of platinum
Expenses
When not descending into the depths of the earth,
lifestyles cost more than others.
Lifestyle Expenses
300 lb.
400 lb.
and the like.

Comfortable.
in a middle-class neighborhood or in a private room
Wealthy.
Lifestyle Expenses
Lifestyle
Wretched
Squalid
Poor
Modest
Comfortable
Wealthy
Price/Day
1 sp
2 sp
1 gp
2 gp
4 gp
10 gp minimum
Aristocratic.
most skilled and fashionable tailor, and have servants
Wretched.
contend with the highest levels of deceit and treachery.
Food, Drink, and Lodging

Squalid.
The expenses and lifestyles described in this chapter assume
that you are spending your time between adventures in town,
from disease.
Poor.
for food and shelter, paying townspeople to sharpen your

sword and repair your armor, and so on. Some characters,
though, might prefer to spend their time away from
civilization, sustaining themselves in the wild by hunting,
foraging, and repairing their own gear.
Maintaining this kind of lifestyle doesnt require you to
your time between adventures practicing a profession, as
the equivalent of a comfortable lifestyle.
Modest.
52
Food, Drink, and Lodging

Item
Ale
Gallon
Mug
Banquet (per person)
Bread, loaf
Cheese, hunk
Inn stay (per day)
Squalid
Poor
Modest
Comfortable
Wealthy
Meals (per day)
Squalid
Poor
Modest
Comfortable
Wealthy
Meat, chunk
Wine
Common (pitcher)
Fine (bottle)
Services
Cost
2 sp
4 cp
10 gp
2 cp
1 sp
7 cp
1 sp
Service
Coach cab
Between towns
Within a city
Hireling
Skilled
Untrained
Messenger
Road or gate toll
Ships passage
Pay
3 cp per mile
1 cp
2 gp per day
2 sp per day
2 cp per mile
1 cp
1 sp per mile
2 gp
4 gp
3 cp
6 cp
3 sp
2 gp
3 sp
Spellcasting Services
category of ordinary hirelings. It might be possible to
2 sp
10 gp
and the more it costs.
Services
or
, is
cast a higher-level spell might involve traveling to a

Some of the most basic types of hirelings appear on
service instead of paymentthe kind of service that
any of the wide variety of people who inhabit a typical
infested wilderness to deliver something important to
a distant settlement.
services. Mercenary soldiers paid to help the

are sages hired to research ancient or esoteric lore. If a
a place to live within the stronghold as part of the
53
Trinkets
d100
37
Trinket
perfume when opened

40
Trinkets
d100
01
02
03
04
Trinket
examined by anyone but you

41
42
43
44
on the bottom
46
47
06
07
(your choice)
on the side that would normally show six pips

gives you unsettling dreams when you sleep near it
10
The deed for a parcel of land in a realm

unknown to you
Two toy soldiers, one with a missing head
11
12
13
14
16
17
20
21
music box that plays a song

you dimly remember from your childhood
22
23
24
60
61
62
63
64
pleasant dreams
66
67
26
of which is rotten
27
to the touch
leather necklace
70
71
notes on two pieces of parchment
72
73
The shell of an egg painted with scenes of human

misery in disturbing detail
74
30
graphite, or any other substance or marking
31
32
33
34
76
manners and etiquette
77
mechanical contraption
on one end that throws sparks when wet
found so far
36
54
d100
Trinket
in its center
a powerful archmage
other structure
a stylish cap
the surface that says dreams
and fall, with the last chapter missing
says, The Wizard of Wines Winery, Red Dragon
and crossbones
when its not being observed
living worm with a head on each end of its body

100
55
Chapter 6: Customization Options

T , , ,
Hit Points and Hit Dice
track of them separately.
Proficiency Bonus
available in a campaign.
Multiclassing
Proficiencies
for more
information.
Class Features
for more information.
Feats
gives a character special capabilities. It embodies
Prerequisites
for
more information.
table in the
Experience Points
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Chapter 6: Customization Options
56
Part 2: Playing the Game
Chapter 7: Using Ability Scores

S
Strength
Dexterity,
Constitution
Intelligence
and memory
Wisdom
Charisma
Advantage and
Disadvantage
have advantage or disadvantage on an ability check,
a saving throw, or an attack roll. When that happens,
as weaknesses.
Ability Scores and

Modifiers
neither advantage nor disadvantage.
activities related to that ability.
reroll the 1.
score and ranging from
Ability Scores and Modifiers

Score
1
23
Score
1617
2021
2223
67
1011
1213
57
+0
+1
+2
Proficiency Bonus
+3
+4
level, as detailed in chapter 1. Monsters also have this
+6
+7
throws, and attack rolls.
2627
30
+10
D&D Basic Rules v1.0 | Chapter 7: Using Ability Scores
is determined by a special form of ability check,

called a contest.
Both participants in a contest make ability checks
grabs it. In a contest between a monster trying to open
Ability Checks
Skills
Typical Difficulty Classes

DC
Very easy
Easy
Medium
Hard
Very hard
Nearly impossible
10
20
with an ability.
30
Strength
Wisdom
Dexterity
Insight
Medicine
Stealth
Intelligence
character or monster makes no progress toward the
objective or makes progress combined with a setback
determined by the DM.
Contests
Charisma
Deception
Intimidation
Investigation
Religion
Sometimes, the DM might ask for an ability check
of them are trying to do the same thing and only one
applies when one of them is trying to prevent the other
58
character in that task. Moreover, a character can help
threading a needle, are no easier with help.

to the Strength check. If the character lacks that
Group Checks
Variant: Skills with Different Abilities
Using Each Ability

Passive Checks
Strength
searching for secret doors over and over again, or can
Strength Checks
Strength checks.
Athletics.
check total as a score.
Working Together
rents, storm-tossed waves, or areas of thick seaweed.

Other Strength Checks.
Break free of bonds
59
Hiding
Attack Rolls and Damage
melee weapons to make melee attacks in hand-to-hand

combat, and some of them can be thrown to make a
ranged attack.
Lifting and Carrying

lift or carry.
Carrying Capacity.
Push, Drag, or Lift.
When you try to hide, make a Dexterity (Stealth) check. Until

you are discovered or you stop hiding, that checks total is
contested by the Wisdom (Perception) check of any creature
that actively searches for signs of your presence.
You cant hide from a creature that can see you, and if you
make noise (such as shouting a warning or knocking over a
be seen, so it can always try to hide. Signs of its passage
might still be noticed, however, and it still has to stay quiet.
In combat, most creatures stay alert for signs of danger
all around, so if you come out of hiding and approach
a creature, it usually sees you. However, under certain
circumstances, the Dungeon Master might allow you to stay
hidden as you approach a creature that is distracted, allowing
you to gain advantage on an attack before you are seen.
When you hide, theres a chance
someone will notice you even if they arent searching. To
determine whether such a creature notices you, the DM
compares your Dexterity (Stealth) check with that creatures
passive Wisdom (Perception) score, which equals 10 + the
Size and Strength.

(Perception) of 14.
One of the main factors in determining
Variant: Encumbrance
you can see in an area, which might be lightly or heavily

obscured
Sleight of Hand.
something on someone else or concealing an object on
encumbered
Stealth.
heavily encumbered
Other Dexterity Checks.
Dexterity
Dexterity Checks
Disable a trap
Wriggle free of bonds
Acrobatics.
Attack Rolls and Damage
roll when attacking with a melee weapon that has the
60
Armor Class
Investigation.
Initiative
location of a hidden object, discern from the appearance
a hidden fragment of knowledge might also call for an
Constitution
Constitution Checks
Religion.
ability represents is largely passive rather than involving

Other Intelligence Checks.
beyond normal limits, however.
Win a game of skill
Hit Points
spells they cast.
Wisdom
Wisdom Checks
Wisdom checks.
Animal Handling.
Intelligence
and the ability to reason.
Intelligence Checks
Intelligence checks.
Arcana.
eldritch symbols, magical traditions, the planes of
History.
61
Finding a Hidden Object

When your character searches for a hidden object such as
a secret door or a trap, the DM typically asks you to make a
hidden details or other information and clues that you might
otherwise overlook.
In most cases, you need to describe where you are looking
in order for the DM to determine your chance of success. For
example, a key is hidden beneath a set of folded clothes in
the top drawer of a bureau. If you tell the DM that you pace
around the room, looking at the walls and furniture for clues,
Wisdom (Perception) check result. You would have to specify
that you were opening the drawers or searching the bureau
in order to have any chance of success.
Intimidation.
Insight.
reconsider a decision.
Performance.
Medicine.
Perception.
entertainment.
Persuasion.
acting in good faith, to foster friendships, make cordial
warring tribes, or inspiring a crowd of townsfolk.

Other Charisma Checks.
Survival.
Find the best person to talk to for news,
that owlbears live nearby, predict the weather, or avoid
Other Wisdom Checks.
Blend into a crowd to get the sense of key topics

of conversation
Discern whether a seemingly dead or living crea-
spells they cast.
Charisma
as their spellcasting ability, which helps determine the
Saving Throws
attempt to resist a spell, a trap, a poison, a disease, or
character or monster is at risk of harm.
commanding personality.
Charisma Checks
and disadvantage, as determined by the DM.
Deception.
deception can encompass everything from misleading
saving throw allowed by a spell is determined by the
blatant lie.
62
Chapter 8: Adventuring
D T H,
Movement
these are the things that
it takes to get from one spot to another, whether the
Speed
the distance in feet that the character or monster
actions determine what happens, so the DM might
Travel Pace
instead of a map.
Time
time is important, the DM determines the time a task
fast pace makes characters less perceptive, while a slow
happens on a scale of minutes

Forced March.
to check for traps on the door at the end of the hall, and
In a city or wilderness, a scale of hours is often more
days works best.

Mounts and Vehicles.
relies on rounds
miles, characters can cover larger distances at this pace,
63
D&D Basic Rules v1.0 | Chapter 8: Adventuring
waterborne vessel are limited to the speed of the vessel
High Jump.
contains more information on special methods of travel.
Travel Pace
Distance Traveled per . . .
Pace
Fast
Minute
Hour
Day
400 feet 4 miles 30 miles
Normal
Slow
passive Wisdom
(Perception) scores
300 feet 3 miles 24 miles
200 feet 2 miles
normally can.
Activity While Traveling
Difficult Terrain
wilderness, they need to remain alert for danger, and
some characters might perform other tasks to help
Marching Order
hidden enemies, and which ones are the closest to those
Special Types of Movement

side with others in their rank. When space is too tight,
areas often involves more than simply walking.
to get where they need to go.
Climbing, Swimming, and Crawling
characters to a middle rank.

Fewer Than Three Ranks.
arranges its marching order with only two ranks, they
While climbing or swimming, each foot of movement
Stealth
While traveling at a slow pace, the characters can move
Jumping
Splitting Up the Party

Sometimes, it makes sense to split an adventuring party,
especially if you want one or more characters to scout ahead.
Long Jump.
Each group has its own front, middle, and back ranks.
The drawback to this approach is that the party will be split
into several smaller groups in the event of an attack. The
advantage is that a small group of stealthy characters moving
slowly might be able to sneak past enemies that clumsier
pace are much harder to detect when they leave their dwarf
64
Noticing Threats
damage from the fall.
Suffocating
characters in the back rank have a chance to hear or
characters in the front and middle ranks cannot.
to notice hidden threats.

Encountering Creatures. If the DM determines
Vision and Light

Surprising Foes.
Other Activities
a lightly obscured
heavily obscured
danger can do one of the following activities instead, or
Draw a Map.
Track.
light, and darkness.

Bright light
gloomy days provide bright light, as do torches, lanterns,
Dim light, also called shadows, creates a lightly
Forage.
in dim light.
Darkness
The Environment
Blindsight
Falling
65
Darkvision
darkness as if the darkness were dim light, so areas
hit points, and might decide that certain objects have
discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
Truesight
see in normal and magical darkness, see invisible
and perceive the original form of a shapechanger or a
Social Interaction
Food and Water
characters who are participating in the interaction that
Food
character is called a nonplayer character
roleplaying and ability checks.
Roleplaying
Water
character thinks, acts, and talks.
Roleplaying is a part of every aspect of the game,
If the character already has one or more levels of
Interacting with Objects
Descriptive Approach to Roleplaying

and actions to the DM and the other players. Drawing on
the DM that his or her character is doing something,

anything happens.
call for a Strength check to see whether the character
on a stool and glares at the minstrel before ordering
and actions.
66
might perceive it.

comfortable with.
Active Approach to Roleplaying

roleplaying
Resting
and spirits for spellcasting, and brace themselves for
them.
Short Rest
Results of Roleplaying
Long Rest
threaten them with something they fear, or play on their
to convince or deceive will fall short.
Ability Checks
In addition to roleplaying, ability checks are key in
reactions. Other checks might be appropriate in certain
67
Between Adventures
arms and armor, performing research, or spending
their hard-earned gold.
In some cases, the passage of time is something that
Practicing a Profession
Lifestyle Expenses
of life and pay the cost of maintaining that lifestyle, as
lifestyle instead.
live in poverty.
Downtime Activities
Recuperating
ing hit points.

of time, or switch to a new downtime activity.
Downtime activities other than the ones presented
his or her downtime performing an activity not covered
Researching
Crafting
perform research, gaining insight into mysteries
special materials or locations necessary to create it. For
whether the information is available, how many days of
information if it is available.
the crafting of a single item, provided that the characters
Training
allow additional training options.
the new tool.
68
Chapter 9: Combat
T .
Initiative
characters and monsters to engage in combat, whether
When combat starts, every participant makes a
nonplayer characters involved in combat, and each other
the same time.
The Order of Combat

round
decide the order if the tie is between a monster and a

player character. Optionally, the DM can have the tied
turn
Your Turn
Surprise
move
and take one action
over the other.
Combat Step by Step
Bonus Actions
1. Determine surprise. The DM determines whether anyone

involved in the combat encounter is surprised.
2. Establish positions. The DM decides where all the
characters and monsters are located. Given the
adventurers marching order or their stated positions in
adversaries arehow far away and in what direction.
3. Roll initiative. Everyone involved in the combat encounter
rolls initiative, determining the order of combatants turns.
4. Take turns. Each participant in the battle takes a turn in
initiative order.
5. Begin the next round. When everyone involved in the
combat has had a turn, the round ends. Repeat step 4 until
69
D&D Basic Rules v1.0 | Chapter 9: Combat
have more than one available.
Other Activity on Your Turn
and swimming.
in their descriptions.
Breaking Up Your Move
of these activities when it needs special care or when it
Reactions
Moving between Attacks
is an instant response to a trigger of some kind, which
most common type of reaction.
attack again.
Using Different Speeds
Movement and Position

In combat, characters and monsters are in constant
Interacting with Objects Around You

Here are a few examples of the sorts of thing you can do in
tandem with your movement and action:
draw or sheathe a sword
open or close a door
withdraw a potion from your backpack
pick up a dropped axe
take a bauble from a table
Difficult Terrain
plant a banner in the ground

throw a lever or a switch
pull a torch from a sconce
take a book from a shelf you can reach
don a mask
pull the hood of your cloak up and over your head
put your ear to a door
kick a small stone
turn a key in a lock
hand an item to another character
Being Prone
throw themselves down. In the game, they are prone,
drop prone
speed. Standing up
70
room for anyone else. In contrast, as many as twenty
crawl
Moving Around Other

Creatures
Squeezing into a Smaller Space
moves there, and it has disadvantage on attack rolls
Actions in Combat
their own in their stat blocks.
later in the chapter.
Flying Movement
Attack
spell.
Creature Size
that govern attacks.
with this action.
Size Categories
Size
Tiny
Small
Medium
Large
Huge
Gargantuan
Space
2 by 2 ft.
Variant: Playing on a Grid

If you play out a combat using a square grid and miniatures
or other tokens, follow these rules.
Rather than moving foot by foot, move square by
10 by 10 ft.
20 by 20 ft. or larger
Space
segments. This is particularly easy if you translate your speed

of 30 feet translates into a speed of 6 squares.
If you use a grid often, consider writing your speed in
squares on your character sheet.
To enter a square, you must have
at least 1 square of movement left, even if the square is
diagonally adjacent to the square youre in. (The rule for
play. The Dungeon Masters Guide provides guidance on using
a more realistic approach.)
hobgoblin lets them.
terrain does, you must have enough movement left to pay for
entering it. For example, you must have at least 2 squares of
Diagonal movement cant cross the corner of a
To determine the range on a grid between two
thingswhether creatures or objectsstart counting squares
from a square adjacent to one of them and stop counting in
the space of the other one. Count by the shortest route.
71
Cast a Spell
Ready
action. Most spells do have a casting time of 1 action,
on spellcasting.
Dash
have a casting time of 1 action, and holding onto the
Disengage
concentrating on the
spell and ready
concentration might be broken.
Dodge
Search
Use an Object
Help
provided that it makes the check before the start of
Improvising an Action
roll is made with advantage.
Hide
Your character can do things not covered by the actions in

this chapter, such as breaking down doors, intimidating
enemies, sensing weaknesses in magical defenses, or calling
for a parley with a foe. The only limits to the actions you can
attempt are your imagination and your characters ability
scores. See the descriptions of the ability scores in chapter 7
for inspiration as you improvise.
When you describe an action not detailed elsewhere in
the rules, the DM tells you whether that action is possible
and what kind of roll you need to make, if any, to determine
success or failure.
72
Making an Attack
Unseen Attackers and Targets
weapon at range, or making an attack roll as part of a
by hiding, casting the

in darkness.
1. Choose a target.
or disadvantage against the target. In addition, spells,
3. Resolve the attack.
attack rolls against it.
the attack hits or misses.
Ranged Attacks
Attack Rolls
spines from its tail. Many spells also involve making a
ranged attack.
Range
character is determined at character creation, whereas
Modifiers to the Roll

When a character makes an attack roll, the two most
provided in its stat block.
a target beyond the long range.
Ranged Attacks in Close Combat
incapacitated.
Melee Attacks
Used in hand-to-hand combat, a melee attack allows
with a spell.
Rolling 1 or 20
melee attack when it strikes with its claws, horns, teeth,
the novice to hit and the veteran to miss.
making a melee attack.
reach
in this chapter.
unarmed
73
Opportunity Attacks
Contests in Combat
Battle often involves pitting your prowess against that of
your foe. Such a challenge is represented by a contest. This
section includes the most common contests that require an
action in combat: grappling and shoving a creature. The DM
can use these contests as models for improvising others.
to make one melee attack against the provoking
Cover
Two-Weapon Fighting
of the cover.
half cover
can throw the weapon, instead of making a melee
attack with it.
Grappling
enemy or a friend.
three-quarters cover
total cover
target has total cover if it is completely concealed by

an obstacle.
Damage and Healing

Escaping a Grapple.
spell all have the potential to damage, or even
Moving a Grappled Creature.
Hit Points
Shoving a Creature
with fewer hit points are more fragile.
one of them.
74
Psychic.
psionic blast deal psychic damage.
Radiant.
Damage Rolls
Slashing.
slashing damage.
Thunder.
When attacking with a weapon

When your current hit point total is half or more of your hit
point maximum, you typically show no signs of injury. When
you drop below half your hit point maximum, you show signs
spell
more than
one target at the same time, roll the damage once for
to 0 hit points strikes you directly, leaving a bleeding injury or

other trauma, or it simply knocks you unconscious.
or
a cleric casts
Damage Resistance and

Vulnerability
Critical Hits
resistance to a damage
type, damage of that type is halved against it. If a
vulnerability to a damage
Damage Types
damage resistance, rely on the types.

as well as resistance to all nonmagical damage, the
Acid.
Healing
deal acid damage.

Bludgeoning.
Cold.
deal cold damage.
Fire.
spell or
can remove damage in an instant.
Force.
and
Lightning.
breath deal lightning damage.
Piercing.
Poison.
75
spell has restored it to life.
Dropping to 0 Hit Points
Monsters and Death

Most DMs have a monster die the instant it drops to
Instant Death
make death saving throws.

Mighty villains and special nonplayer characters
player characters.
Knocking a Creature Out

Sometimes an attacker wants to incapacitate a foe,
rather than deal a killing blow. When an attacker
can make this choice the instant the damage is dealt.
Falling Unconscious
Temporary Hit Points

Some spells and special abilities confer temporary hit
Death Saving Throws
or hang onto life. Unlike other saving throws, this one
take 2 damage.
points and receive temporary hit points.
become stable.
Rolling 1 or 20.
Damage at 0 Hit Points.
Stabilizing a Creature
Mounted Combat
saving throw.
stable
start making death saving throws again, if it takes any
76
Mounting and Dismounting
Controlling a Mount
act independently.
to accept a rider. Domesticated horses, donkeys, and
Underwater Combat
When making a melee weapon attack
spear, or trident.
ranged weapon attack
against a target within normal range, the attack roll has
77
Part 3: The Rules of Magic

Chapter 10: Spellcasting
M D&D
appears in the form of a spell.
Spell Slots
Regardless of how many spells a caster knows or
learning and preparing their spells, and monsters

magic and channeling its energy into even a simple
What Is a Spell?
many spell slots of each spell level a character can
2nd-level slots.
most cases, all in the span of seconds.

Spells can be versatile tools, weapons, or protective
slot. So when Umara casts
away, and restore life to the dead.
a 1st-level
three remaining.
them are long forgotten. Some might yet lie recorded in

in the minds of dead gods. Or they might someday be
Some characters and monsters have special abilities
Casting a Spell at a Higher Level
power and wisdom to do so.
Spell Level
level for that casting. For instance, if Umara casts
at 1st level and

and
the incredible
Cantrips
Known and Prepared Spells
to the spell in a magic item. Members of a few classes
have a limited list of spells they know that are always
Rituals
descriptions.
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Chapter 10: Spellcasting
78
also have the spell prepared or on his or her list of spells
Casting a Spell
Components
cast the spell.
Casting Time
Verbal (V)
time to cast.
Bonus Action
cast a spell with a verbal component.
Somatic (S)
Reactions
Material (M)
in response to some event. If a spell can be cast as a
component pouch or a
spellcasting focus
Longer Casting Times

If a spell states that a material component is
cast a spell with a casting time longer than a single
component for each casting of the spell.
Duration
Range
For a spell like
For a spell like
, the target is the point in space
Instantaneous
for an instant.
Casting in Armor
Because of the mental focus and precise gestures required
are wearing to cast a spell. You are otherwise too distracted
and physically hampered by your armor for spellcasting.
79
Concentration
The Schools of Magic

schools of magic. Scholars, particularly wizards, apply these
categories to all spells, believing that all magic functions in
essentially the same way, whether it derives from rigorous
study or is bestowed by a deity.
The schools of magic help describe spells; they have no
rules of their own, although some rules refer to the schools.
Abjuration spells are protective in nature, though some
of them have aggressive uses. They create magical barriers,
Casting another spell that requires concentration.

trate on two spells at once.
Taking damage.
-
to other planes of existence.

Conjuration spells involve the transportation of objects
and creatures from one location to another. Some spells
summon creatures or objects to the casters side, whereas
others allow the caster to teleport to another location. Some
Divination spells reveal information, whether in the form of
secrets long forgotten, glimpses of the future, the locations
of hidden things, the truth behind illusions, or visions of
distant people or places.
Enchantment
or controlling their behavior. Such spells can make enemies
see the caster as a friend, force creatures to take a course of
action, or even control another creature like a puppet.
Evocation spells manipulate magical energy to produce a
Being incapacitated or killed.
channel positive energy to heal wounds.

Illusion spells deceive the senses or minds of others. They
cause people to see things that are not there, to miss things
that are there, to hear phantom noises, or to remember
things that never happened. Some illusions create phantom
images that any creature can see, but the most insidious
illusions plant an image directly in the mind of a creature.
Necromancy spells manipulate the energies of life and
death. Such spells can grant an extra reserve of life force,
drain the life energy from another creature, create the
undead, or even bring the dead back to life.
Creating the undead through the use of necromancy spells
such as animate dead is not a good act, and only evil casters
use such spells frequently.
Transmutation spells change the properties of a creature,
object, or environment. They might turn an enemy into a
harmless creature, bolster the strength of an ally, make an
object move at the casters command, or enhance a creatures
innate healing abilities to rapidly recover from injury.
concentration on a spell.
Targets
A Clear Path to the Target
and that point, the point of origin comes into being on
Targeting Yourself
Cone
Areas of Effect
and
cover an
a point of origin
80
Cube
Combining Magical Effects
as the length of each side.
Cylinder
on the same
straight lines from the point of origin to the perimeter of
The Weave of Magic

energy lies untapped in every rock, stream, and living
Line
Sphere
Saving Throws
Many spells specify that a target can make a saving
creation, the mute and mindless will of existence, permeating

every bit of matter and present in every manifestation of
energy throughout the multiverse.
Mortals cant directly shape this raw magic. Instead, they
make use of a fabric of magic, a kind of interface between
spellcasters of the Forgotten Realms call it the Weave and
recognize its essence as the goddess Mystra, but casters
have varied ways of naming and visualizing this interface.
By any name, without the Weave, raw magic is locked away
and inaccessible; the most powerful archmage cant light
a candle with magic in an area where the Weave has been
torn. But surrounded by the Weave, a spellcaster can shape
lightning to blast foes, transport hundreds of miles in the
blink of an eye, or even reverse death itself.
of magic access it in a variety of ways. The spells of wizards,
warlocks, sorcerers, and bards are commonly called arcane
magic. These spells rely on an understandinglearned or
intuitiveof the workings of the Weave. The caster plucks
directly at the strands of the Weave to create the desired
magic. The spells of clerics, druids, paladins, and rangers are
called divine magic. These spellcasters access to the Weave
is mediated by divine powergods, the divine forces of
nature, or the sacred weight of a paladins oath.
Attack Rolls
When characters use divination spells such as detect magic or

identify
dispel magic
smooths the Weave. Spells such as
rearrange
is damaged or torn, magic works in unpredictable ways
or not at all.
81
Chapter 11: Spells

T
worlds of
with lists of selected spell lists for the most common
descriptions, presented in alphabetical order by the
name of the spell.
Cleric Spells
Cantrips (0 Level)
Guidance
Light
Resistance
Sacred Flame
Spare the Dying
Thaumaturgy
1st Level
Bless
Command
Cure Wounds
Detect Magic
Guiding Bolt
Healing Word
Sanctuary
Shield of Faith
2nd Level
Greater Restoration
Mass Cure Wounds
Raise Dead
6th Level
Blade Barrier
Find the Path
Harm
Heal
Heroes Feast
True Seeing
7th Level
Etherealness
Fire Storm
Regenerate
Resurrection
8th Level
Earthquake
9th Level
Gate
Mass Heal
True Resurrection
Wizard Spells
Cantrips (0 Level)
Hold Person
Lesser Restoration
Prayer of Healing
Silence
Spiritual Weapon
Warding Bond
3rd Level
Beacon of Hope
Dispel Magic
Mass Healing Word
Protection from Energy
Remove Curse
Revivify
Speak with Dead
Spirit Guardians
4th Level
Death Ward
Divination
Freedom of Movement
Guardian of Faith
Locate Creature
5th Level
Commune
Flame Strike
Dancing Lights
Fire Bolt
Light
Mage Hand
Minor Illusion
Prestidigitation
Ray of Frost
Shocking Grasp
1st Level
Burning Hands
Charm Person
Comprehend Languages
Detect Magic
Identify
Magic Missile
Shield
Silent Image
Sleep
Thunderwave
2nd Level
Blur
Darkness
Flaming Sphere
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Chapter 11: Spells
82
Hold Person
Invisibility
Knock
Levitate
Magic Weapon
Misty Step
Spider Climb
Suggestion
Web
3rd Level
Dispel Magic
Fireball
Fly
Haste
Lightning Bolt
Major Image
Spell Descriptions
Aid
Casting Time: 1 action
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
4th Level
Antimagic Field
Dimension Door
Greater Invisibility
Ice Storm
Stoneskin

Range:
Components:
5th Level
Duration:
Cone of Cold
Dominate Person
Dream
Passwall
Wall of Stone
6th Level
Chain Lightning
Disintegrate
Globe of Invulnerability
Mass Suggestion
Ottos Irresistible Dance
True Seeing
7th Level
Delayed Blast Fireball
Finger of Death
Mordenkainens Sword
Teleport
and
that target.
Areas of Magic.
If the sphere overlaps an area of magic, the part of
8th Level
83
are
Dominate Monster
Maze
Power Word Stun
Sunburst
Spells.
9th Level
Magic Items.
Foresight
Imprisonment
Meteor Swarm
Power Word Kill
Time Stop
, that target
nonmagical longsword.
wielded by an attacker in the sphere. If a magic weapon
Astral Projection
Magical Travel.
fail to work in the sphere, whether the sphere is the
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
spell,
temporarily closes while in the sphere.
Creatures and Objects.
Duration: Special
longer within the sphere.

Dispel Magic.
Arcane Eye
Range:
Components:
Duration:
possessions are transported along the silver cord, allowing
in diameter.
Arcane Lock
Range:
Components:
and it awakens.
against an astral or physical body ends the spell for that
Duration: Until dispelled
Augury
Casting Time:
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
By casting gem-inlaid sticks, rolling dragon bones,
84
At Higher Levels.
Blur
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
as the casting of additional spells or the loss or gain of
a companion.
Beacon of Hope
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Burning Hands
Range:
Components:
Duration:
each target has advantage on Wisdom saving throws
Blade Barrier
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the damage increases by
Chain Lightning
Range:
Components:
Duration:
then leap from that target to as many as three other
Bless
Range:
Components:
Duration:
range. Whenever a target makes an attack roll or a
saving throw before the spell ends, the target can roll
saving throw.
85
be targeted by only one of the bolts.
At Higher Levels.
Charm Person
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
target them.
Command
Comprehend Languages
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Cone of Cold
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Approach.
Drop.
Flee.
Grovel.
Halt.
distance needed to remain in the air.

At Higher Levels.
At Higher Levels.
Cure Wounds
Range:
Components:
Duration:
target them.
Commune
Casting Time:
Range: Self
Components:
At Higher Levels.
spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the healing increases by
Duration:
86
Dancing Lights
Delayed Blast Fireball

Range:
Components:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Duration:
making them appear as torches, lanterns, or glowing
then condenses to linger at a chosen point within range
Darkness
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
Detect Magic
Death Ward

Range: Self
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
learn its school of magic, if any.
created by a spell of 2nd level or lower, the spell that

created the light is dispelled.
protection from death.
by 1 foot of stone, 1 inch of common metal, a thin sheet
Dimension Door
point, and the spell ends.
the target, and the spell ends.
87

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Divination
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
Disintegrate
might be a short phrase, a cryptic rhyme, or an omen.
Range:
Components:
Duration:
as the casting of additional spells or the loss or gain of

a companion.
as the wall created by
Dominate Monster
Range:
Components:
Duration:
only by means of a
or a
spell.
smaller nonmagical object or a creation of magical

advantage on the saving throw.
At Higher Levels.
Dispel Magic
Range:
Components:
Duration:
and preserves itself to the best of its ability.
the spell ends.

At Higher Levels.
Wisdom saving throw against the spell. If the saving

At Higher Levels.
88
Dominate Person
the target to fall asleep, at which point the messenger
Range:
Components:
Duration:
can deliver a message of no more than ten words and

a failed save, echoes of the phantasmal monstrosity
advantage on the saving throw.
makes its saving throw with disadvantage.
Earthquake
Range:
Components:
preserves itself to the best of its ability.
Duration:
Wisdom saving throw against the spell. If the saving
in that area.
At Higher Levels.
Dream
Casting Time:
Range: Special
Components:
the terrain in the area, as determined by the DM.

Fissures.
Duration:
edge as it opens.
Structures.
While in the trance, the messenger is aware of his or
If the target is asleep, the messenger appears in the
points, it collapses and potentially damages nearby
of the dream, creating landscapes, objects, and other
89
Etherealness
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
Faerie Fire
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Finger of Death
has given them the ability to do so.

Range:
Components:
Duration:
of its ability.
At Higher Levels.
Fireball
Range:
Components:
Find the Path
Duration:
Casting Time:
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
Fire Bolt
Range:
Components:
Duration:
90
range. Make a ranged spell attack against the
worn or carried.
being worn or carried, and it sheds bright light in a
Fire Storm
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
Fly
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
Foresight
by this spell.
Flame Strike
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Freedom of Movement
At Higher Levels.
Range:
Components:
Flaming Sphere
Duration:

Range:
Components:
or restrained.
Duration:
movement or attacks.
91
Gate
Greater Restoration

Range:
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
instantly transported to the other plane, appearing in
Guardian of Faith
created by this spell from opening in their presence or
anywhere within their domains.

Range:
Components:
Duration:
and it is free to act as the DM deems appropriate. It
Globe of Invulnerability
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Guidance
Range:
Components:
Duration:
to one ability check of its choice. It can roll the die before
At Higher Levels.
Guiding Bolt
Greater Invisibility

Range:
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
within range. Make a ranged spell attack against the
92
At Higher Levels.
Harm
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the healing increases by
Heroes Feast
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
hit points below 1. If the target fails the saving throw,
Haste
Range:
Components:
Duration:
frightened, and makes all Wisdom saving throws with
Hold Person
saving throws, and it gains an additional action on each
or Use an Object action.

Range:
Components:
Duration:
sweeps over it.
Heal
At Higher Levels.
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Holy Aura
At Higher Levels.
Healing Word
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
93

Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
following forms of imprisonment.

Burial.
the spell ends.
Ice Storm
Range:
Components:
small mithral orb.

Chaining.
Duration:
Hedged Prison.
tiny demiplane that is warded against teleportation and
At Higher Levels.
Minimus Containment.
of 1 inch and is imprisoned inside a gemstone or similar
Identify
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Slumber.
the casting of the spell. If it is a magic item or some

Ending the Spell.
spell created it.
Imprisonment
level, class, or hit points.

spell can end the spell only if it is cast
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
component that varies according to the version of the
is immediately freed from its binding.
Duration: Until dispelled
Inflict Wounds
Range:
Components:
Duration:
94
At Higher Levels.
Invisibility
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Light
ends for a target that attacks or casts a spell.
At Higher Levels.
Knock
Range:
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
dimension. Until the spell ends, the object sheds bright
as an action.
magical means that prevents access.
saving throw to avoid the spell.
Lightning Bolt
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Lesser Restoration
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
Levitate
Range:
Components:
Duration:
95
Locate Creature
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
Magic Weapon
spell,
Mage Armor
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
to attack rolls and damage rolls.

At Higher Levels.
Major Image
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Mage Hand
other visible phenomenon that is no larger than a

Range:
Components:
Duration:
spell again.
door or container, stow or retrieve an item from an open
Magic Missile
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
Mass Cure Wounds

At Higher Levels.
spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the spell creates one
more dart for each slot level above 1st.

Range:
Components:
Duration:
96
At Higher Levels.
Mass Heal
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels
year and a day.
Maze
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Mass Healing Word

Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
When the spell ends, the target reappears in the
Meteor Swarm
At Higher Levels.

Range: 1 mile
Components:
Duration:
Mass Suggestion
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Minor Illusion
itself, throw itself onto a spear, immolate itself, or do
activity can be completed in a shorter time, the spell
97

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Passwall
Range:
Components:
Duration:
objects still in the passage created by the spell are safely
Misty Step
Casting Time:
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
Power Word Kill

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Mordenkainens Sword
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Ottos Irresistible Dance

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Power Word Stun

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Prayer of Healing
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
the spell ends.
98
Prestidigitation
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Ray of Frost
Range:
Components:
Duration:
-
cal notes, or an odd odor.
Regenerate
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Remove Curse
Raise Dead
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
the object so it can be removed or discarded.
Resistance
Range:
Components:
Duration:
rolled to one saving throw of its choice. It can roll

spell then ends.
99
Resurrection
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
make a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the
Duration:
Shield
Casting Time:
hit by an attack or targeted by the
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
spell
missing body parts.
Shield of Faith
and saving throws.
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Revivify
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Shocking Grasp
Duration:
old age, nor can it restore any missing body parts.

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Sacred Flame
Range:
Components:
Duration:
if the target is wearing armor made of metal. On a hit,
Silence
Sanctuary

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
100
Spare the Dying

impossible there.
Silent Image
Range:
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
Speak with Dead

Range:
Components:
Duration:
image so that it appears to be walking.
Sleep
Range:
Components:
Spider Climb
Duration:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Spirit Guardians
Range:
Components:
Duration:
At Higher Levels.
each slot level above 1st.
101
At Higher Levels.
activity can be completed in a shorter time, the spell
Spiritual Weapon
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
the spell ends.
Sunburst
Range:
Components:
Duration:
that weapon.
At Higher Levels.
Stoneskin
Range:
Components:
Duration:
created by a spell.
Teleport
Range:
Components:
Duration:
as hard as stone. Until the spell ends, the target has

slashing damage.
Suggestion
Range:
Components:
Duration:
Familiarity
Permanent circle
Very familiar
Seen casually
Viewed once
Description
False destination
Mishap
0133
0143
0143
Similar
Area
0613
3443
Target
1424
On
Target
01100
01100
74100
74100
102
Familiarity.
Thunderwave
On Target.

Range:
Components:
Duration:
appear a random distance away from the destination
Similar Area.
At Higher Levels.
Time Stop
Range: Self
Components:
Duration:
anywhere on the plane.
Mishap.
actions and move as normal.
Thaumaturgy
Range:
Components:
Duration:
True Resurrection
Casting Time:
Range:
Components:
Duration:
103
the spell ends.
Warding Bond
missing organs and limbs.

Range:
Components:
True Seeing
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
It also ends if the spell is cast again on either of the
as an action.
Web
Wall of Stone
Range:
Components:
Duration:

Range:
Components:
Duration:
that it is no longer enclosed by the wall.
to bridge a chasm or create a ramp.
battlements, and so on.
104
Appendix: Conditions

Paralyzed
-
Petrified
the condition.
nonmagical object it is wearing or carrying, into a

increases by a factor of ten, and it ceases aging.
Blinded
Charmed
Poisoned
and ability checks.
Prone
Deafened
Frightened
the attack roll has disadvantage.

within line of sight.
Restrained
of its fear.
Grappled
saving throws.
Stunned
away by the
spell.
Incapacitated
Unconscious
or reactions.
Invisible
or any tracks it leaves.
105
D&D Basic Rules v1.0 | Appendix: Conditions
falls prone.
Exhaustion
Some special abilities and environmental hazards, such as
temperatures, can lead to a special condition called
can give a creature one or more levels of exhaustion, as
1
2
3
4
Disadvantage on ability checks

Speed halved
Disadvantage on attack rolls and saving throws
Hit point maximum halved
Death
causes exhaustion, its current level of exhaustion increases

exhaustion as well as all lower levels. For example, a creature
disadvantage on ability checks.
reduced below 1.
Finishing a long rest reduces a creatures exhaustion level
by 1, provided that the creature has also ingested some
food and drink.
D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Appendix: Conditions
106
character Name
class & level
BackgrouNd
Player Name
race
aligNmeNt
exPerieNce PoiNts
inspiratiOn
strEngth
armOr
class
prOficiEncy bOnus
initiativE
spEEd
PersoNality traits
hit Point maximum
strength
dExtErity
dexterity
constitution
intelligence
currEnt hit pOints
ideals
tEmpOrary hit pOints
BoNds
Wisdom
charisma
cOnstitutiOn
saving thrOws
total
acrobatics (dex)
successes
animal handling (Wis)
Failures
arcana (int)
intElligEncE
hit dice
death saves
FlaWs
athletics (str)
deception (cha)
Name
history (int)
atk BoNus damage/tyPe
insight (Wis)
intimidation (cha)
wisdOm
investigation (int)
medicine (Wis)
Nature (int)
Perception (Wis)
Performance (cha)
charisma
Persuasion (cha)
religion (int)
sleight of hand (dex)
stealth (dex)
survival (Wis)
skills
attacks & spEllcasting
Passive Wisdom (PercePtioN)

cP
sP
eP
gP
PP
OthEr prOficiEnciEs & languagEs
EquipmEnt
TM & 2014 Wizards of the Coast LLC. Permission is granted to photocopy this document for personal use.
fEaturEs & traits
character name
aGe
heIGht
WeIGht
eYeS
SKIn
haIr
name
symbol
character appearance
allies & organizations
additional features & traits
character backstory
treasure
spellcasting
ability
spellcasting
class
spell
level
cantrips
slots total
ed
pr
slots expended
1
epar
spell save dc
7
spell name
spells known
5
9
spell attack
bonus
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What is the purpose of the Player's Handbook?

What is the purpose of the Player's Handbook?

What does the Monster Manual contain?

What does the Monster Manual contain?

Version 0.

Based on the original game created by

Rules Development: Rodney Thompson, Peter Lee

Art Directors: Kate Irwin, Dan Gelon, Jon Schindehette,

Harold Johnson, Roger E. Moore, David Zeb Cook, Ed

Release: July 3, 2014

Available for download at

Represented by Hasbro Europe, 4 The Square, Stockley Park,

to the challenges that scene presents.

Ravenloft, and the players decide what they want their

wide chasm gapes, disappearing into the deep fog below.

the drawbridge gives way? Or cast a spell to carry them

straining with the weight. From atop the high strong

story called a campaign. Many people who play the

want to see how sturdy it is. Do I think we can cross it, or

gameat least, not the way those terms are

Dungeon Master (DM): OK, one at a time. Phillip,

or the player might choose to create a new character to

youre looking at the gargoyles?

a memorable story, they all win.

Phillip (rolling a d20): Ugh. Seven.

within a vast cosmos called the multiverse, connected

game, each player

D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Introduction

2. The players describe what they want to do.

and decides how to resolve those actions.

cannibals, and the elves are desert nomads. Some

a task. In those cases, the DM decides what happens,

create a character and play in any one of them.

Using These Rules

verbal descriptions to set the scene. Some DMs like to

the players keep track of where everyone is.

and describes the three broad categories of activity in

many dice to roll of a certain type, as well as what

D&D Basic Rules v1.0 | Introduction

Specific Beats General

game relies on rolls of a

derived from them, are the

fraction is one-half or greater.

2. Apply circumstantial bonuses and penalties.

3. Compare the total to a target number. If the total

complement each other and cover the weaknesses of

created and played by the other players at the table, as

Advantage and Disadvantage

D&D Basic Rules v0.1 | Introduction

The Wonders of Magic

bards and clerics, warriors might be overwhelmed by

Magic is also a favored tool of villains. Many

The Three Pillars of Adventure

interaction, and combat.

is the give-and-take of the players describing what they

scale, that might involve the characters spending a day

room to see what happens.

a talkative magic mirror to show a distant location to the

to defeat their opponents, whether that means killing