Creating a high-level character in Dungeons & Dragons can be a thrilling experience for seasoned players, often providing a greater sense of accomplishment than starting a new character at level one. When everyone participating has a wealth of experience across multiple campaigns and classes, jumping into a higher tier can be both exciting and skill-challenging.
However, there are potential pitfalls you’ll want to avoid as you navigate the process of character creation. From capstone abilities to multiclassing, there are several important factors to consider when developing a high-level character in Dungeons & Dragons.
What Level Should You Start At?
The first and perhaps most critical element in character creation is selecting the right starting level.
If you set the starting level too low, you may miss out on the benefits of character progression. Conversely, if you choose too high of a starting level, you risk losing the thrill of growth throughout your campaign. Open a dialogue with your Dungeon Master (DM) and fellow players to determine what level would best suit your upcoming adventure.
Here’s a guideline for appropriate starting levels based on player experience:
| Player Experience | Recommended Starting Level |
|---|---|
| Played 1 Campaign | Level 3-5 |
| Played 2-3 Campaigns | Level 6-10 |
| Played 3-4 Campaigns | Level 11-16 |
| Played 5+ Campaigns | Level 17-20 |
How To Build A High-Level Character
Building a high-level character is similar to creating one from the ground up, with a few key differences and challenges to consider.
The biggest hurdle is that you’ll need to build your character sheet from scratch and then advance them to your desired level. This can be a time-consuming task, but following these tips can help streamline the process:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Do Ability Scores Last | Your ability scores will change significantly during character creation. Wait until you determine your starting stats and any Ability Score Improvements before filling them in. |
| Fill In Spells Later | Spell slots and prepared spells will also vary. First, establish how many spells you can have, then choose them at the end. |
| Focus On Features | Prioritize your character’s features. Before filling out other details, list all your class features. |
Example:
For a level 10 cleric, complete every feature up to Divine Intervention. Then, roll your initial stats, apply any additional Ability Score Improvements, and calculate your spell access.
How To Determine Equipment
When crafting high-level characters, both players and DMs must consider how to select appropriate starting equipment. While characters will receive the standard gear outlined in their class description, it’s reasonable to assume that experienced adventurers have acquired magic items and treasures over their journeys.
As a DM, you can provide extra starting equipment according to players’ levels:
| Starting Level | Extra Starting Equipment And Gold | Magic Items |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 | No additional equipment | 1-2 Common |
| 5–10 | 500 GP, plus 1d10 × 25 GP | 2 (1 Common, 1 Uncommon) |
| 11–16 | 5,000 GP, plus 1d10 × 250 GP | 6 (3 Uncommon, 2 Common, 1 Rare) |
| 17–20 | 20,000 GP, plus 1d10 × 250 GP | 10 (4 Uncommon, 3 Rare, 2 Common, 1 Very Rare) |
These guidelines can be customized based on your campaign’s needs. For instance, a survival-themed adventure might limit the amount of starting gold available.
Additionally, encourage players to select equipment and magic items that fit their character’s story. For instance, it may not make sense for a level 17 player to possess three identical magic rings. Prompt them to think creatively and select items that suit their character’s narrative journey.
How To Multiclass As A High-Level Character
At higher levels, multiclassing functions the same as with regular progression. Here are some strong multiclass options for players crafting high-level characters:
- Sorcerer-Warlock
- Barbarian-Fighter
- Artificer-Rogue
These combinations can yield powerful results, especially if you’re starting at level ten or above. Be sure to select stats that align with your chosen multiclass and always check the prerequisites for each multiclass to ensure a compatible build.
By considering these aspects while crafting a high-level character, you will enhance your gaming experience and enjoy richer storytelling in your campaigns.
