The Obojima campaign setting supplement for Dungeons & Dragons introduces an array of exciting subclass options, including the College of Masks bard. This bardic tradition emphasizes theatrical performance, drawing inspiration from the rich culture of Kabuki theater. If you enjoy role-playing and want a subclass that provides a fun and dynamic challenge, the College of Masks might be the perfect choice for your next bard character.
If you’re eager to add something distinctive to your D&D gameplay or delve into the Obojima setting, think about creating a College of Masks bard. Here’s a guide on how to build one.
Overview of the College of Masks
The College of Masks bard is defined by a fascinating tradition that blends performance and storytelling with Obojima’s folklore. The core feature of this subclass involves using various masks, each of which offers magical enhancements to both your abilities and those of your allies during combat and role-play scenarios.
Subclass Features
| Subclass Feature | Character Level | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tools of Performance | 3 | You can craft magical masks that grant you special abilities when worn. At level 3, you can craft two types of masks, gaining an additional choice at levels 7, 11, and 15. |
| Copycat | 3 | By expending one Bardic Inspiration, you may cast Alter Self without needing concentration, along with gaining five temporary hit points and equipment associated with your target. |
| Many-Masked Performance | 6 | For one minute, you can perform for creatures within 60 feet, charming, frightening, or putting them to sleep. They must make a Wisdom saving throw against your spell save DC when the performance concludes. |
| Gift of Theater | 14 | You can give one of your masks to an ally within melee range, usable once per short or long rest. |
These abilities not only enhance your character but also allow for custom gameplay strategies depending on the masks you choose.
Ideal Ability Scores for a College of Masks Bard
Bards shine in performance and charisma, making Charisma your top priority for ability scores alongside a few key physical attributes.
| Ability Score | Details |
|---|---|
| Charisma | As the primary stat for spellcasting and skills like Deception and Persuasion, make Charisma your highest ability score. |
| Dexterity | Essential for Armor Class, Dexterity also benefits from proficiency in Dexterity saving throws, so it should be your second-highest stat. |
| Intelligence | Useful for arcane casting and certain role-playing situations, especially in a roleplay-heavy campaign like Obojima. |
| Constitution | Affects your Hit Points, so ensure you have a solid score here to avoid being too fragile in battle. |
| Wisdom | Less critical but can help with some spell saves, rank Wisdom as your next highest stat. |
| Strength | Generally the least concern for a bard, particularly in the College of Masks, so you can place your lowest stat here. |
Recommended Species for a College of Masks Bard
While you can choose species from the standard 2024 Player’s Handbook, there are two unique species in Obojima that fit the College of Masks bard well:
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Dara: They can increase any Ability Score by two and another by one, allowing you to optimize Charisma and Dexterity. Their extra skill proficiencies are also beneficial for bard expertise.
- Elves: In Obojima, elves gain additional cantrips, which are particularly useful for diversifying your bard’s spell list while also allowing a boost to a chosen Ability Score.
Best Backgrounds for a College of Masks Bard
Many of the backgrounds in the Obojima setting differ from those in the 2024 Player’s Handbook. While any background can add flavor, here are some strong options to consider:
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Apprentice of AHA: This Obojima-specific background grants proficiency in History and Investigation, aligning well with the College of Masks bard’s storytelling focus.
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Merchant: Offering boosts to Charisma, Intelligence, and Constitution, plus the Lucky feat, this background adds depth to a bard’s roleplay opportunities.
- Wayfarer: This background allows increases to Dexterity, Wisdom, and Charisma, offering significant enhancements for bards, along with proficiency in Thieves’ Tools, which adds unique flavor.
Final Thoughts
Using the Obojima backgrounds can create interesting contrasts with standard Player’s Handbook options. Ensure to consult with your Dungeon Master regarding balancing these unique backgrounds when introducing this subclass to a different campaign setting.
In summary, the College of Masks bard provides an engaging mix of performance, magic, and colorful storytelling that can enrich your Dungeons & Dragons experience. Whether your goal is to captivate audiences or empower your allies, this subclass offers numerous possibilities for fun and creative gameplay.
