Not sure which D&D class to start with? We break down the best and worst picks for new DnD players—featuring confused Wizards, exploding Artificers, and the ever-reliable Barbarian.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, the hosts explore which Dungeons & Dragons classes are best suited for new players. With humor, experience, and a healthy dose of debate, they walk through the ins and outs of each class—from the accessible Fighter to the complicated Wizard—highlighting which choices provide a smooth introduction to tabletop RPGs and which might send new players reaching for the Player’s Handbook (and aspirin).

The discussion ranges from the brute-force appeal of the Barbarian to the arcane intricacies of spellcasters like the Sorcerer and Warlock. Along the way, the hosts consider how party composition, game length, and mechanical complexity should influence character selection, and they sprinkle in some banter about drink preferences to keep things lively. Whether you're a first-time adventurer or helping someone roll their first character, this episode provides a thoughtful—and often funny—guide to starting strong.

Links

• Content from RPGBOT.net
  • Practical Guide to Character Selection
  • Class and Subclass Guides

Key Takeaways:

General Advice for New Players:

• Class complexity varies dramatically and should be a key consideration for beginners.
• New players benefit greatly from having experienced players at the table.
• It’s okay to change classes as players get more comfortable with the game.
• Simpler classes help players stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

Class-by-Class Breakdown:

Artificer

• Highly versatile, but too complex for most beginners.
• Heavy reliance on magic items and systems mastery.

Barbarian

• Excellent starting class due to simplicity and durability.
• High hit points make them forgiving for mistakes.

Bard

• Complex with many strategic spell choices.
• Spell traps can confuse new players.

Cleric

• Highly versatile with a strong role in the party.
• Forgiving due to the ability to change prepared spells easily.

Druid

• Mechanically rich but overwhelming for new players.
• Requires understanding Wild Shape and extensive spellcasting.

Fighter

• The most beginner-friendly class.
• Few pitfalls and highly customizable.

Monk

• Fun but mechanically challenging.
• Not recommended for brand new players.

Paladin

• Durable and straightforward in combat.
• Introduces both martial and spellcasting elements in a manageable way.

Ranger

• Offers utility and moderate complexity.
• Flexible due to spell-switching mechanics.

Rogue

• Stealthy and skillful with few mechanical traps.
• A solid choice for new players who want to be clever.

Sorcerer

• Straightforward focus on damage, but can suffer from decision overload.
• Can be beginner-friendly if spells are chosen carefully.

Warlock

• Simple core mechanics, but pact and spell choices can create analysis paralysis.
• Very dependent on the build and playstyle.

Wizard

• One of the most complex classes due to extensive spell lists.
• Power spike at level 5 (Fireball) can feel rewarding.
• Requires patience and careful spell management.

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Tyler Kamstra

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Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
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Randall James

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Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati