Debunking the myth that Hunter's Mark is a "must take" spell... AKA The Ranger's Guide to Concentration Spells.
The Hunter’s Mark Shibboleth
Category: DM Tips
Tattoos (Unearthed Arcana)
A chart summarizing the rarity, persistent effects, and activated effects of new D&D tattoos from the March 26, 2019 Unearthed Arcana playtest material.
De-Magnify Gravity
I was checking out the new Explorer's Guide to Wildemount when I came across an absolute gem: Magnify Gravity. This spell is awesome! Super flavorful, must-take spell. Anytime I start thinking "must take" a red flag goes up. Let's check out the balance and see what knobs we can turn to tune it.
That Broken GWM/SS “Fix”
The most notorious feats in 5th Edition D&D are Sharpshooter (SS) and Great Weapon Master (GWM). These feats are considered the most powerful because of a mechanic they share in common. Yet, a common "fix" to nerf them does not have the intended result! Let's run the numbers.
Old School Fireball Backdraft
What happens when we apply the fireball backdraft rule from Original Dungeons & Dragons to 5th Edition? Learn how to turn Death House into Nakatomi Plaza.
AoE Spells vs. Hordes
Casting big area effect damage spells is great fun. Taking forever to resolve them is not. Let's reverse engineer the saving throw math so we can get to the narrative resolution quicker.
The Hotel California Rule
The Eagles masterfully set the scene in the first few lines of Hotel California. Learn how we can employ that lesson as Dungeon Masters.
Starting Gold Dice
Recalculating starting gold dice based on the standard equipment options for each class.
How Does Shapechanger Work?
Today we're exploring a rules clarification with the new Eberron Changeling. The Changeling gets a racial feature called "Shapechange" which allows it to change form. Here's the relevant part we'll be examining: The language of the feature says that you can change your appearance as an action. It also says you stay in this form … Continue reading How Does Shapechanger Work?
Casting a Bonus Action and Reaction Spell on Your Turn
The bonus action spellcasting restriction in 5th Edition D&D can keep you from casting a reaction spell on your own turn. Why is this? Was it intended? And how can we rewrite the rule to alleviate this quirk?
