My Dungeons Dragons Character Build: A Comprehensive Guide

Over the years, I have experimented with various character builds in my Dungeons Dragons (DD) games. This guide will delve into my current character build, which is a dynamic mix of different classes and abilities that allow me to deal substantial damage, especially in the crucial first round of combat. My current character is a Gloom Stalker Ranger 5/Assassin Rogue 3/Arcane Archer Fighter 4/Moon Druid 2/Artificer 2, with plans to progress into Artillerist. I'll explain the various aspects of my build, from the background to the character's proficiency and abilities.

Character Background

I am an Aerenal Wood Elf with the Criminal background. However, my character's background is much more intricate than this simple description. The story of my character is rich and involves various elements from the DD world. My current background is particularly significant as it sets the stage for my character's abilities and the magical items I carry.

Class and Ability Traits

Gloom Stalker Ranger

'I start with the Gloom Stalker Ranger, which gives me additional attacks in the first round of combat. This is a game-changer, as it maximizes my efficiency in combat and my ability to deal extensive damage in a short period. The Gloom Stalker’s Defensive Tactics and Camouflage techniques are also invaluable for setting up ambushes and stealthy attacks.'

Assassin Rogue

"My Assassin Rogue levels provide me with an additional layer of damage. The ability to impose disadvantage on attack rolls against a target who hasn't taken their turn yet is extremely useful, especially in surprise situations."

Arcane Archer Fighter

"Arcane Archer Fighter is a perfect mix of magical and combat prowess. I can use spells to enhance my archery, and my additional attacks in the first round are a boon for dealing damage."

Moon Druid

"Moon Druid brings a mystical element to my character, allowing me to shapechange into various animals, granting me unique abilities such as night vision and camouflage. The Moon Druid’s connection to nature also enhances my Arcane Archer Fighter and other combat capabilities."

Artificer

"Artificer is a class that combines magic and mechanical prowess, providing me with unique tool-based abilities and spellcasting. I have plans to delve into the Artillerist specialization, which will further bolster my combat and magical capabilities."

Proficiencies and Abilities

My character has several skill proficiencies and abilities, including:

Acrobatics - For dodging and maneuvering in combat. Arcana - For my spellcasting and understanding of arcane forces. Arcane Archer - Specialization in using spells to enhance my archery. Insight - Helps me understand others and their intentions. Investigation - Essential for uncovering secrets and solving mysteries. Medicine - Allows me to heal myself and others. Sleight of Hand - For stealth and intricate tasks involving small objects. Stealth and Perception (Expertise from Rogue background) - For sneaking and being vigilant. Nature (Aerenal Wood Elf heritage) - For better understanding of natural environments.

Magical Items and Features

My magical items and features are a significant part of my build, enhancing my combat and survival capabilities.

Cloak of Elvenkind - Grants invisibility within forests, a valuable asset for stealth. Cloak of Displacement - Provides partial concealment, crucial for dodging attacks. Staff of the Woodlands - Grants the Pass Without Trace ability, allowing me to move silently and unseen. 1 Longbow and various magical arrows - My primary weapon, enhanced with various effects. Vials of Viper Venom - Venom harvested from my wildshape transformations, providing an additional layer of damage. Broom of Flying - Contains the soul of my dead adopted son, granting flight and a magical bond.

Combat Strategy

My build is geared towards dealing maximum damage in the first round of combat. The synergy between the Gloom Stalker’s additional attacks, Assassin’s advantage, and my high initiative bonus (boosted by the Tome of Swift Action) ensures a devastating start to the fight.

Approaching targets from a hidden position, I can use my Sneak Attack against unready opponents, often resulting in critical hits. Adding the effects of Hunter's Mark, poisoned arrows, and the Dread Ambusher ability, I maximize my attacks in the first round. By action surging, I can repeat the process, dealing stringently high damage in a short period.

My background in criminal activities has also allowed me to learn various feats through downtime, enhancing my Defensive Tactics and archery skills. This, combined with my magic items and spells, ensures that I am a versatile and deadly battlefield presence.