is going to reach a new audience in 2023 with the release of on the big screen; a production that hardcore lovers of the property are hoping will live up to expectations. The popularity of the movie release might also lead to new fans joining the world of tabletop gaming that expert players have mastered so brilliantly. If that is the case, then it's vital to know about the breakdown of various classes and their subclasses, for newcomers to get to grips with ahead of their own D&D experience.
Among the Dungeons & Dragons classes is that of the Artificer, a character that many gamers love to choose because of its unique ability to make, invent and take advantage of the magic in every object. The imaginative figure was introduced in 3.5e and has been perfected for 5e, giving users a lot of creative freedom. Artificers are limited in their subclasses, but each player has a very difficult choice to make as to what path they could choose. Making the wrong choice of which subclass to utilize in a campaign can make a genuine difference as to how useful the Artificer might be to the party embarking on the adventure.
4 Alchemist
An Alchemist is certainly a useful member to have on any team, even if it is perhaps the weakest of the Artificer subclasses. The Artificer after all is incredibly capable when it comes to constructing and building useful items, so it's no wonder that they are also perfect for brewing potions and other such alchemy products, that can help survive in some of the most dangerous planes of existence. While choosing to become an Alchemist plays into the main style of the Artificer, it's perfect for those who like to support players on their campaign and enjoy helping to heal fallen allies.
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The Alchemist role thus comes equipped with a range of skills, including Tool Proficiency which compliments the Artificer's position in general, and the ability to cast Alchemist Spells, many of which fall into that healing category. An Alchemist can be equipped with Experimental Elixirs of their own creation, which can do anything from adding resiliency to gifting flight. But there are limits to the Alchemist, especially in combat despite the Chemical Mastery boost.
3 Artillerist
While the Alchemist is best placed on the side of the battle providing support from a slightly safer space, the Artillerist is suited for the edge of the combat field for a different reason. The name certainly hints towards their key skill, but the Artillerist is an excellent long-range attacker that boasts a full variety of artillery; many of which are extremely inventive, matching the Artificer theme. What shouldn't be overlooked about the character is that they aren't exactly a defensive choice and are more reliable in combat than they are in general campaign space.
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The Artillerist is gifted with Tool Proficiency once more and unique Artillerist Spells which are more varied compared to traditional Artificer play. The player is also accompanied by the Eldritch Cannon which can further be adapted with Flamethrower, Force Ballister, and Protector changes. Arcane Firearm and Explosive Cannon help to boost the stats of the Artillerist, but the one defensive maneuver worth investigating is that of Fortified Position, which helps to give the remaining party significant cover, perhaps to escape with. The must-have spell list and weapon choices definitely help the Artillerist ultimately do what it does best: blow stuff up.
2 Armorer
There is sure to be debate as to what role might fit with the vibe of the Artificer the best, but one of the most notable examples of subclass is that of the Armorer. It's easy to see how an Artificer, which is often very capable with their hands and use of magical items, would also make brilliant armor and suits to wear into battle. Choosing this subclass allows the player to be a little more versatile throughout the campaign, with the abilities giving plenty of options to tabletop gamers that enjoy taking on a variety of useful roles within a team.
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Whether it's defensive or offensive, the Armorer contains some kind of perk that gives them an edge over other subclasses. Tool Proficiency remains a consistent, while the slow build of the Armorer Spells is definitely worth the wait long-term, especially when it gets to fiery shields and big saves. Arcane Armor is a huge bonus when using the Armorer and removes many of the costume-based challenges that might usually plague a player. But Armor Modifications and even Armor Classes all become more relevant as a Dungeon Master's narrative continues, with Guardian and Infiltrator models both worth fully exploring.
1 Battlesmith
The Battlesmith is the quintessential Artificer subclass in the eyes of many, as it combines many of the most notable traits of the character class while also adding a few unique inventions to the handbook. Although the name very much sums up the melee potential of the Battlesmith, that isn't to say that they don't have their uses elsewhere in a campaign, where other creative methods of use might become more apparent.
, players are going to want a Battlesmith on the team. Their Tool Proficiency meets the needs of an Artificer, while the Battlesmith Spell list has a lot of desirable inclusions, that boost the defense and even rely somewhat on intelligence at later levels. Battle Ready and Steel Defender perfectly demonstrate the range of the Battlesmith in action, and Arcane Jolt is an excellent addition to help keep players in the field via healing. The Battlesmith's weapon usage is emboldened by an Extra Attack, helping to round out a character that perfectly blends in with a unit and gets stuck into the action in a way some other Artificers can't. Plus, a mechanical pet known as the Steel Defender really helps the overall campaign come to life.
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