The top 3 are Spores, Stars, and Moon. Stars is the easiest while still being powerful, as it gives you a damage boost, kind of like Barbarians. Spores gives something similar, but it’s more based around being in range of melee attacks. Moon is still by far the best, but it is also the most complicated, as it revolves around knowing your wild shape forms. 

If you put the work in, I would think you could learn how to use spores effectively. You certainly seem capable of your own research while at the same time are open to learning. Truthfully, I have never played one though, so I can’t say for sure how easy or not it will go for you. I’m happy to provide more information though!

Just note that it is complicated and requires the right build. There’s no shame in starting with Stars to dip your feet in if you should change your mind.

Thanks for breaking down the subclasses! It sounds like each has its own strengths and playstyle. I appreciate the insights on Spores being manageable with some research, and I’m definitely eager to learn. The Stars subclass seems like a great balance for a beginner, while Moon sounds like an exciting challenge!

Since you mentioned you haven’t played one, do you know anyone who has? I’d love to hear about their experiences! Any tips or resources you’d recommend for diving deeper into these subclasses?

Unfortunately no. Only one person I know plays a druid and he is from what I have gathered a skilled veteran with copies of all the books ready. I’m pretty sure he’s a moon druid. Most of my knowledge is limited to research. To be honest, I’m still not very good myself and have stuck mostly with Warlock for its’ simple reliance on eldritch blasts with the situational options to cast spells as needed. I can ask him for any advice though if you are interested, but it may help more to have specific questions. 

My go to stop for research is RPGbot.com with ArcaneEye.com being a distant second that just helps me decide on spells better than the former sometimes.

Thanks for sharing! It’s great to know about your resources; I’ll definitely check out RPGbot.com for more in-depth info on druids. I appreciate you offering to ask your friend for advice too!

As for specific questions, I’m curious about how to balance using Wild Shape effectively, especially with the different subclasses. If you do reach out to him, I’d love to know what tips he has for a new player starting with Druid. Any insights on common mistakes to avoid would also be super helpful!

Edit: For some reason I can't get RPGbot.com to work. But I will try ArcaneEye.com.

Alright, got ArcaneEye.com to work.

Honestly according to my research, wild shape is more of a utility option most of the time for scouting like in the air, underwater, tight spaces or disguised as something harmless. There are still some spells you can cast though in these forms should you enter combat. The big exception is the moon druid, as its abilities revolve around it. Spores can do this to a smaller extent, but it’s more common just to stay in your true form.

I’ll try asking him for sure though!

Thanks for sharing that insight! It makes sense that Wild Shape is often used for utility, especially for scouting and sneaking around. I appreciate you taking the time to ask your friend for advice—no rush on that! I’m just excited to learn as much as I can. Looking forward to hearing back from you!

My friend just got back to me:

”First, decide if you want to focus more on spell casting or wild shape (i think he means for determining your subclass/playstyle). That will influence the build. Spell selection isn't a huge deal because druids change spells after a long rest. Wisdom is primary stat. Constitution is important for concentration.”

Thanks for sharing your friend's insights! That makes a lot of sense—focusing on either spellcasting or wild shape seems crucial for shaping my character. I’m leaning towards the Circle of Spores, which seems to offer a nice balance of both. I appreciate the reminder about Wisdom being the primary stat and the importance of Constitution for concentration. If you have any more tips or specific spells to consider, I’d love to hear them!

There is one, but it’s…more work. One thing they recommend to help balance the Spore Druid’s weak defenses is to take a level in Monk. This would mean learning about part of another class though, and it’s possible some Dungeon Masters won’t allow this anyway. So just something to keep in mind if you end up having trouble or close calls with your build to consider doing this and focusing on dexterity more than wisdom because of it.

Thanks for the suggestion! I appreciate the insight into balancing the Spore Druid's defenses. I hadn't considered multiclassing into Monk, but it sounds like an interesting option to explore. I’ll keep that in mind as I continue to learn about the class. Have you had any experience with a Spore Druid or multiclassing in general? I’d love to hear more about your thoughts on that!