Show Notes
In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we breakdown the changes to the Ranger class in the 2024 rules of Dungeons and Dragons. We go through each class feature and highlight the differences from previous versions.
Summary
We discuss the improvements to spellcasting, the changes to Favored Enemy and Favored Foe, the addition of more expertise, and the new subclass features. We were disappointed with the capstone feature, Foe Slayer. Overall, we acknowledge that while the Ranger class has seen some improvements, it still has its flaws and is considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules.
We dig into the subclasses of the Ranger class in D&D 5e. We talk about the Beastmaster, Feywanderer, Gloomstalker, and Hunter subclasses. We highlight the changes and improvements made to the subclasses in the 2024 rules, but also point out some issues and frustrations. We discuss the balance between using Hunter’s Mark and other class features, and the impact of concentration on the Ranger’s gameplay. We were unenthusiastic with the changes made to the Gloomstalker subclass and the nerfs to the Hunter subclass. Overall, we feel that the Ranger class still has some design flaws and missed opportunities.
Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the changes made to some signature ranger spells, including the removal of concentration requirements. We were concerned about the heavy dependence on Hunter’s Mark and the lack of flavor in the ranger class. We suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, allowing for more diverse and flavorful gameplay. Despite the criticisms, they acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version.
Materials Referenced in This Episode
- Player’s Handbook (affiliate link)
- Content from RPGBOT.net
- Previous RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
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Tyler Kamstra
Ash Ely
- Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
- Twitter: @GravenAshes
- YouTube @ashravenmedia
Nobody gonna mention how divine favor doesn’t have concentration nor repeated bonus action use? Is +1 point of damage on average and a low chance of a longer duration and tracking features that won’t come up really worth concentration and a bonus action every 1-2 turns?