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Welcome to your deep dive into the Battle Master 5e, a fighter subclass in Dungeons & Dragons that turns martial combat into an art form. This overview unpacks everything you need to know about the Battle Master—its mechanics, its flavor, and why it’s a go-to choice for players who crave strategy over brute force. Whether you’re swinging a sword or plotting your next move, this subclass offers a toolkit for every warrior.
The Battle Master 5e subclass enhances fighters with maneuvers, powered by superiority dice (d8s at level 3). Features like Combat Superiority let you trip enemies or boost allies, while Know Your Enemy reveals foe stats after observation, blending martial skill with tactical depth. It’s about outsmarting foes as much as outfighting them.
This is the heart of the Battle Master: a fighter who uses precision and cunning to dominate the battlefield. Below, we’ll break down how these abilities work and what they bring to your game.
The Battle Master is rooted in a tradition of martial excellence. These fighters emulate techniques passed down through generations, embodying the archetype of a seasoned warrior who’s studied the craft of war. They’re not flashy spellcasters or divinely blessed champions—they’re masters of steel and strategy, relying on skill honed over time. Picture a grizzled veteran or a disciplined duelist; that’s the Battle Master’s soul.
In your campaign, this could mean a character who’s trained under a legendary commander or learned from ancient battle manuals. Their strength lies in their hands and their wits.
Here’s what powers the Battle Master 5e:
At level 3, you get 4 superiority dice (d8s) to fuel your maneuvers. These dice recharge after a short or long rest, letting you stay effective throughout the day. They’re your resource for special moves that go beyond a basic attack.
From level 7, spend 1 minute observing a creature outside combat to learn two details—like its Armor Class or hit point range. It’s a subtle but powerful tool for planning your approach.
You start with 3 maneuvers, chosen from a wide list. Examples include Trip Attack, which knocks foes prone while dealing extra damage, or Disarming Attack, which forces an enemy to drop their weapon. Each maneuver uses a superiority die to add both flair and impact to your strikes.
Also at level 3, you gain proficiency with an artisan’s tool, like smith’s tools, showcasing your practical knowledge of warfare beyond just fighting.
These mechanics make the Battle Master a fighter who’s always ready—with a plan, a trick, or a well-timed strike.
The Battle Master shines by giving you options in every fight. With Combat Superiority, your superiority dice let you adapt on the fly—whether it’s knocking an ogre off its feet or stripping a bandit of their blade. The maneuvers you pick shape your style, from controlling the battlefield to landing decisive blows. Meanwhile, Know Your Enemy turns you into a tactician, sizing up foes before the clash begins.
This subclass rewards players who think ahead. Your dice and maneuvers scale as you level—more dice, bigger dice (up to d12s at 18), and more maneuvers—keeping you relevant from tavern brawls to epic showdowns.
What sets the Battle Master apart is its blend of power and flexibility. It’s not just about hitting hard—it’s about hitting smart. You can trip a charging foe to give your rogue advantage, disarm a spellcaster’s focus, or study a dragon’s weaknesses before the fight. The tools at your disposal make every encounter a chance to shine.
Plus, it’s reliable. Those superiority dice come back after a short rest, so you’re rarely sidelined. It’s a subclass for fighters who want to feel like they’re in control, not just swinging and hoping.
To play a Battle Master, pick maneuvers that match your vision—do you want to disrupt enemies, deal extra damage, or aid your allies? Pair them with a weapon you love, like a longsword for melee or a bow for range. As you level, your dice and options grow, letting you refine your warrior into a legend. This page is your launchpad. Dive into our guides to master the Battle Master 5e and bring your fighter to life.
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