Dungeons & Dragons is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in popularity, fueled by factors like Stranger Things, the "Honor Among Thieves" movie, and the immense success of Baldur's Gate 3. This makes it an ideal time to delve into the world of tabletop roleplaying. However, navigating the wealth of 5th Edition (5E) content, especially from third-party creators, can be daunting for newcomers. This guide focuses primarily on official Wizards of the Coast publications, excluding the essential Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual (updated in 2024), which are assumed prerequisites.
First-Party Content Recommendations:
We'll highlight key sourcebooks and adventures beyond the core rulebooks:
Player's Handbook Core Rulebook
Link to Amazon: 12$49.99
Dungeon Master's Guide Core Rulebook
Link to Amazon: 7$49.99
Monster Manual Core Rulebook
Link to Amazon: 5$49.99
Xanathar's Guide to Everything (Sourcebook)
Link to Amazon: 10$ A crucial sourcebook offering expanded player options (subclasses, feats, spells) and helpful DM tools.
Tasha's Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)
Link to Amazon: 5$ Similar to Xanathar's, this expands player options and core rules, adding class features, spells, and DM tools for sidekicks and environments.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)
Link to Amazon: 3$ A roleplaying-focused adventure with intrigue and multiple antagonists. Has a sequel, "Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage."
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)
Link to Amazon: 4$ A comprehensive exploration of the Planescape setting, including a setting guide, monster manual, and adventure.
Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)
Link to Amazon: 3$ A significant expansion to "The Lost Mine of Phandelver," featuring cosmic horror elements and Mind Flayers.
Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)
Link to Amazon: 9$ A unique setting with airships and floating castles, introducing Dragonmarks.
Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)
Link to Amazon: 1$ Introduces the Dragonlance setting with large-scale combat and dragons.
Curse of Strahd (Adventure)
Link to Amazon: 5$ A classic gothic horror adventure with vampires. Has a companion supplement, "Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft."
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)
Link to Amazon: 0$ A Feywild adventure with strong roleplaying elements and multiple solutions.
Brief Mention of High-Quality Third-Party Content:
While beyond the scope of this guide, notable third-party options include "Strongholds and Followers" (MCDM Productions), "Flee, Mortals!" and "Where Evil Lives" (MCDM Productions), "Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex" (Kobold Press), and "Grim Hollow" (Ghostfire Gaming).
This selection provides a strong foundation for new D&D players. Let us know your thoughts and favorite additions in the comments!
