Designer Insights from Unearthed Arcana: Mystic Subclasses

This playtest introduces four subclasses that explore new ways to wield, counter, steal, and bargain with magic:  the Warrior of the Mystic Arts (Monk), Oath of the Spellguard (Paladin), Magic Stealer (Rogue), and Vestige Patron (Warlock).

You can read the full playtest packet yourself or click below for highlights from each subclass, which include designer insights from Jason Tondro.

• Mystic Subclasses
• Warrior of the Mystic Arts (Monk)
• Oath of the Spellguard (Paladin)
• Magic Stealer (Rogue)
• Vestige Patron (Warlock)

• Download the Mystic Subclasses PDF
• The survey is closed.

Mystic Subclasses

BRYAN SOLA

This Unearthed Arcana features four new subclasses that share an interest in magic. They combine magic and martial prowess, prey on or protect spellcasters, and commune with eldritch beings that seek to return from death.

Warrior of the Mystic Arts (Monk)

A Warrior of the Mystic Arts combines spellcasting with martial arts in several ways. For example, the character can expend Focus Points to regain spell slots or vice versa, expending spell slots to regain Focus Points. As they advance in level, the Warrior of the Mystic arts can combine attacks and spellcasting in a single action.

This subclass uses Wisdom as its spellcasting ability and its spells come from the Sorcerer spell list.

Oath of the Spellguard (Paladin)

This new subclass—named for the Spellguard Shield in the Dungeon Master’s Guide—protects their allies while wielding specialized abilities to defeat spellcasting enemies. When a nearby enemy begins to cast a spell, the Paladin responds with the iconic Spellguard Strike, not only inflicting damage but also potentially negating the spell as it is being cast.

The Oath of the Spellguard grants access to all the spells that most bedevil spellcasters, like Dispel Magic, See Invisibility, and Silence. The Paladin’s Aura of Protection simultaneously helps allies maintain their spells while, at higher levels, defending them against spells and spell attacks.

Magic Stealer (Rogue)

This subclass is inspired by magic-stealing Rogues from previous versions of the game. The Magic Stealer absorbs spells to empower Sneak Attack, and can even redirect magical power to an ally, allowing that ally to recover spell slots. As the Magic Stealer advances in level, they gain new uses of Cunning Strike that steal Resistance, disrupt spells, or make the target vulnerable to spells. And, because the Magic Stealer is bound to have many spellcasting enemies, this Rogue can cast Nondetection to slip past divinations and magical wards.

Vestige Patron (Warlock)

The Vestige Patron is inspired by the Binder, a class from a previous edition of D&D that influenced the Warlock class. A vestige is all that remains of a dying or forgotten god who lends power to the Warlock in exchange for a chance to grow in power and live again. The vestige accompanies the Warlock on their adventures, and as the Warlock advances in level, the vestige grows in power, protecting the Warlock and their allies and eventually adopting a mighty, terrifying shape.

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Once you’ve read or played with these playtest materials, be sure to fill out the survey on D&D Beyond, coming on January 22, and let us know what you think.