Daggerheart class
Bard
Bard is a class in Daggerheart: Performers and storytellers who channel magic through art.
Last reviewed
Key facts
- Primary Trait
- presence
- Domains
- Codex, Grace
Overview
Bards are artists, performers, and storytellers who weave magic through their craft. Whether through song, spoken word, dance, or visual art, a Bard's creativity fuels their supernatural abilities. They inspire allies, confound enemies, and shape the narrative of battle through the power of their presence. Bard characters in Daggerheart draw from the Codex and Grace domains, giving them access to knowledge-based abilities and fluid, movement-oriented powers. Their primary trait is Presence, making them natural leaders and social powerhouses who can turn the tide of an encounter with a well-timed performance.
How it works
Primary Trait: Presence Domains: Codex, Grace Role: Support, social, and utility. Bards excel at empowering allies, controlling situations through narrative influence, and providing versatile solutions to problems. Key Features: Bards gain domain cards from Codex (knowledge, language, and lore-based abilities) and Grace (movement, agility, and performance-based abilities). Their abilities often generate or spend Hope to benefit the party. HP and Stress: Moderate HP slots with standard stress slots. Bards are not front-line fighters but can hold their own when needed. Evasion: Moderate evasion, benefiting from Grace domain mobility options.
Tips and playstyle
Character Concepts: Wandering minstrel, court poet, war chanter, street performer, lorekeeper, revolutionary propagandist, traveling playwright. Playstyle: Bards shine brightest when supporting the party. Use your Presence to inspire allies and generate Hope. Codex domain cards give you access to knowledge and utility, while Grace cards enhance your mobility and defensive options. You are the party's social linchpin. Synergies: High Presence benefits all your social interactions and many domain card abilities. Pair with Knowledge for a lore-focused Bard, or with Agility for a more acrobatic performer. Experiences related to performance and social situations amplify your strengths.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Bard compare to D&D's Bard?
Daggerheart's Bard shares the performative theme but uses a completely different mechanical framework. Instead of spell slots and Bardic Inspiration dice, you use domain cards from Codex and Grace, and your power is fueled by the Hope and Fear economy. The flavor is similar but the mechanics are unique to Daggerheart.
What traits should I prioritize as a Bard?
Presence is your primary trait and should be your highest score. After that, Knowledge pairs well with your Codex domain cards, and Agility complements your Grace domain mobility. Instinct is also useful for perception and reading situations.
Can Bards fight effectively in combat?
Bards are not primarily damage dealers, but they can contribute meaningfully to combat through domain card abilities, supporting allies with Hope expenditure, and using Grace domain movement to stay safe while assisting the party.