So we can be a fighter AND a wizard. Or we can be a barbarian AND a bard. Why can't we dip into multiple subclasses for the same class? From a "realistic" standpoint it makes more sense. It is far easier to explain why a College of Lore bard would want to dip into College of Swords than it is to explain why a Battlemaster fighter decides he wants to become a warlock.
I agree, but I imagine that the reason for this is due to contradictions, as well as overpowered builds. For example, a rogue could dip into multiple subclasses to gain a huge number of ways to use sneak attack. Or a wizard taking subclass dips into all the schools, reducing spellbooks costs around the board, as well as gaining very powerful abilities that could overload the game a bit. These early level abilities are often quite versatile, so having several would be a bit OP.
The other issue is with some classes that have contradicting subclasses. Clerics and warlocks, for example, have contrasting domains and patrons.
On the other hand, if you want to multi-subclass, there are lots of home brew sources for it. I’ve seen one where you take additional subclasses as a way of progressing beyond level 20. The thing to bear in mind would be to perhaps slow progression for additional subclasses, or maybe have players use the same “charges” for certain abilities (e.g a wizards level 3 ability) to prevent spamming of abilities.
Of course I agree that this could make way for several awesome character concepts, so it is definitely worth trying if you want. Hopefully we’ll see an official mechanic one day. Maybe OneD&D?
Mechanically, 5e (and almost certainly 1D&D/ isn't capable of dealing with it. Do you have to repeat level 1 and 2 to get the subclass again? If so, you get some redundant class features. If not, then that's a very easy way to game the system.
In terms of flavour and lore, it does make sense. An Evocation Wizard is far more likely to diversify into being a Transmutation Wizard than, say, a Battlemaster Fighter, and yet, the former is impossible while the latter is somewhat plausible. Still, the mechanics don't really match up. We'd need to pick subclasses at level 1 for it to really work in the current framework. Even then, you'll have issues as you progress. It's just not an easy fix.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
If you're not willing or able to to discuss in good faith, then don't be surprised if I don't respond, there are better things in life for me to do than humour you. This signature is that response.
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
So we can be a fighter AND a wizard. Or we can be a barbarian AND a bard. Why can't we dip into multiple subclasses for the same class? From a "realistic" standpoint it makes more sense. It is far easier to explain why a College of Lore bard would want to dip into College of Swords than it is to explain why a Battlemaster fighter decides he wants to become a warlock.
I agree, but I imagine that the reason for this is due to contradictions, as well as overpowered builds. For example, a rogue could dip into multiple subclasses to gain a huge number of ways to use sneak attack. Or a wizard taking subclass dips into all the schools, reducing spellbooks costs around the board, as well as gaining very powerful abilities that could overload the game a bit. These early level abilities are often quite versatile, so having several would be a bit OP.
The other issue is with some classes that have contradicting subclasses. Clerics and warlocks, for example, have contrasting domains and patrons.
On the other hand, if you want to multi-subclass, there are lots of home brew sources for it. I’ve seen one where you take additional subclasses as a way of progressing beyond level 20. The thing to bear in mind would be to perhaps slow progression for additional subclasses, or maybe have players use the same “charges” for certain abilities (e.g a wizards level 3 ability) to prevent spamming of abilities.
Of course I agree that this could make way for several awesome character concepts, so it is definitely worth trying if you want. Hopefully we’ll see an official mechanic one day. Maybe OneD&D?
Mechanically, 5e (and almost certainly 1D&D/ isn't capable of dealing with it. Do you have to repeat level 1 and 2 to get the subclass again? If so, you get some redundant class features. If not, then that's a very easy way to game the system.
In terms of flavour and lore, it does make sense. An Evocation Wizard is far more likely to diversify into being a Transmutation Wizard than, say, a Battlemaster Fighter, and yet, the former is impossible while the latter is somewhat plausible. Still, the mechanics don't really match up. We'd need to pick subclasses at level 1 for it to really work in the current framework. Even then, you'll have issues as you progress. It's just not an easy fix.
If you're not willing or able to to discuss in good faith, then don't be surprised if I don't respond, there are better things in life for me to do than humour you. This signature is that response.