Dungeons & Dragons is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in popularity. From the influence of Stranger Things to the success of Honor Among Thieves, and the explosion of D&D podcasts and YouTube channels, not to mention the massive popularity of Baldur's Gate 3, it's a fantastic time to join the game.
However, navigating the wealth of 5th Edition (5e) content, especially the vast offerings from third-party creators, can be daunting for newcomers. This guide focuses primarily on official Wizards of the Coast publications, excluding the essential Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual (updated in 2024), assuming you've already acquired these core rulebooks. If not, obtain them first! You can find the latest editions linked below.
First-Party Content Recommendations:
Player’s Handbook Core Rulebook
Dungeon Master’s Guide Core Rulebook
Monster Manual Core Rulebook
Xanathar’s Guide to Everything (Sourcebook)
10See it at Amazon A crucial sourcebook (2017) expanding player options with subclasses, feats, spells, and DM tools. Essential for diverse character builds.
Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)
5See it at Amazon Similar to Xanathar's, offering expanded player options, new spells, and DM rules for sidekicks and environments.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)
3See it at Amazon A roleplaying-focused adventure emphasizing intrigue and social encounters, offering multiple antagonists for replayability. Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage provides a sequel.
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)
4See it at Amazon A superb exploration of the Planescape setting, including a setting book, monster manual, and adventure.
Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)
3See it at Amazon A significant expansion to The Lost Mine of Phandelver, introducing cosmic horror elements and a compelling conspiracy.
Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)
9See it at Amazon A unique setting with airships and floating castles, including new Dragonmark species options.
Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)
1See it at Amazon Introduces the Dragonlance setting, featuring large-scale combat encounters and dragons.
Curse of Strahd (Adventure)
5See it at Amazon A classic gothic horror adventure with vampires and creepy elements. Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft offers a supplement.
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight: A Feywild Adventure
0See it at Amazon A Feywild adventure with a carnival setting, emphasizing roleplaying and multiple solution options.
Brief Mention of Notable Third-Party Content:
- Strongholds and Followers (MCDM Productions): Rules for player bases and NPCs.
- Flee, Mortals! and Where Evil Lives (MCDM Productions): Monster redesigns and a dungeon.
- Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex (Kobold Press): Extensive monster manuals.
- Grim Hollow (Ghostfire Gaming): A dark fantasy setting.
These recommendations offer a solid starting point for your D&D journey. Let us know your thoughts and favorite books in the comments!
