WRau1 wrote:I've played RPGs and dungeon crawler board games almost my entire life but have never even attempted to play D&D. I have no issues with it, just that no one in my circle was into it so I never tried. Well, my wife was interested in it and signed up for a local group so it looks like I'll be joining. Bought a bunch of 5th Edition stuff to start studying. I tend to play healing classes whenever possible as well as druids so I think I'll roll a healing Druid. Not sure of the race yet, though. Anyone got any overall tips for a beginner?
I’ve been playing for like five years, can give as much advice as you want.
Overall, I’d say play what speaks to you. There’s definitely optimization you can do if making something strong is your cup of tea, but overall theory crafting doesn’t always translate to the table in the same way it would in a video game. Everything is viable in real play and there is a lot of flexibility based on your DM and players.
Druid
might be a complicated start as you’ll have a lot going on (though I definitely like the class). You’ll have to manage spells, your ability to shape shift, a moderate hit die (D8 is in the squishier range compared to a D10 fighter/ranger/paladin or a D12 Barbarian), and some armor restrictions (no metal because Druid). You’re maybe the ultimate Swiss Army knife that can fill a bunch of roles, but Druids tend toward being a support/utility class. Your spells are usually crowd control focused and require concentration (so you can only hold one effect at a time), so you won’t be flashy like a wizard throwing fireballs or calling down a meteor storm.
Personally, I like clerics. They get better armor, some more melee options, and the best healing spells (though Druid and other odd options like a Divine Sorcerer are equally good and sometimes better).
I hope that helps some at a face value focused on classes, but can give you more in-depth info or suggestions for the game at large beyond mechanics. Hope you enjoy your first time playing!!
