Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition class
Druid
Druid is a class in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition: Nature spellcasters who shapeshift into animal forms.
Last reviewed
Key facts
- Hit Die
- d8
- Primary Ability
- WIS
- Saving Throws
- INT, WIS
Overview
Druids revere nature above all, drawing their magical power from the force of nature itself. They gain the ability to take on animal forms through Wild Shape, making them uniquely versatile. Druids refuse to wear metal armor, connecting them deeply to the natural world. Druid characters excel at battlefield control, healing, and utility. Wild Shape provides scouting capability and emergency HP through beast forms. The Circle of the Land (SRD) emphasizes spellcasting, granting additional prepared spells based on chosen terrain and recovering spell slots on short rest.
How it works
Hit Die: d8 Primary Ability: Wisdom Saving Throws: Intelligence, Wisdom Spellcasting: Full caster using Wisdom. Prepares spells from entire Druid list. Up to 9th level slots. Wild Shape: Transform into beasts you've seen. Duration scales with level. Uses: 2 per short rest. Circle of the Land (SRD): Natural Recovery (recover spell slots on short rest, up to half your level rounded up in slot levels), bonus Circle Spells based on terrain (Arctic, Coast, Desert, Forest, Grassland, Mountain, Swamp, Underdark).
Tips and playstyle
Character Concepts: Forest hermit, tribal shaman, eco-warrior, beastmaster, elemental guardian, travelling naturalist. Playstyle: Circle of the Land Druids are spell-focused. Natural Recovery lets you compete with short-rest casters. Use Wild Shape for scouting and utility rather than combat. Conjure Animals and Call Lightning are standout spells. Synergies: High WIS benefits casting and Perception. The Resilient (CON) feat helps maintain concentration. Combine utility spells with Wild Shape scouting for unmatched exploration capability.
Frequently asked questions
Can Druids wear metal armor?
The rules state Druids 'will not wear armor or use shields made of metal.' This is a class restriction, not a mechanical impossibility. Talk to your DM about alternatives like ironwood or dragonscale.
How does Wild Shape work in combat?
You gain the beast's HP as temporary HP. When that HP reaches 0, you revert to your normal form with your previous HP. You keep your mental stats but use the beast's physical stats and natural attacks.