Artificer 5E Guide 2024 [Level Up Your D&D Gameplay]

Are you yearning to bring some magical spark to your Dungeons and Dragons campaign with a unique character? Well, Artificer 5E might be the engaging element your gaming experience needs.

This character effortlessly brings the elements of invention, creativity, and magic to your table – nothing can quite compare!

As a D&D enthusiast, you’re likely on the hunt for ways to spice things up in your fantasy adventures. Artificer 5E could be that ‘extra’ you’ve been searching for.

With their magical gadgetry, fascinating spells, and tactical contribution to quests, Artificers provide a compelling blend of magic and technology that enhances not just your gameplay but the overall storytelling process as well.

What is Artificer 5E in D&D?

Artificer 5E is a character class in the 5th Edition of Dungeons and Dragons (D&D). They represent a unique blend of magic and technology, making their creations a manifestation of their versatile genius. As inventors and innovators, Artificers use various tools to channel their arcane powers.

They can infuse their items with magical energy, create spell-casting items, and even create a mechanical servant such as an iron defender. Artificers possess varying specialties, including Alchemist, Artillerist, and Battlesmith.

Also Read: Carrion Crawler 5E Monster [Abilities, Size, And Strength]

Is Artificer 5E a good class?

Yes, the Artificer class in Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition is considered a good and versatile class for several reasons.

• Unique Blend of Magic and Technology: Artificers have a distinctive ability to infuse magic into everyday items, which can create a variety of magical effects and make them an unpredictable opponent or resourceful ally.
• Versatility: They are highly adaptable, with the ability to fill in multiple roles in any adventure group. They can perform like spellcasters, healers, or frontline combatants based on the magical items they create.
• Buffing Allies: Several of their infusions are designed not for personal benefit but to outfit their allies with enhanced gear, making them exceptionally good at supporting their teammates.
• Tool Proficiency: An Artificer 5E is proficient with various types of artisan tools, which can come in handy during adventures.
• Class Options: With subclass options such as Alchemist (healer/potion master), Artillerist (spell cannon & turret creator), and Battlesmith (melee warrior with Iron Defender pet), one can customize an Artificer’s abilities to fit their desired playstyle.

While the effectiveness of any class ultimately depends on the player’s skill and strategy, an Artificer played well can be an immensely useful addition to any adventuring party due to their utility, flexibility, and creativity.

What are the hit points of Artificer 5E?

Hit points are critical in your gaming journey. They serve as a lifeline, a gauge to determine how much damage your character can withstand before meeting their unfortunate end.

The hit points of Artificer 5E aptly reflect their role as resilient inventors on the battlefield. If you’ve been wondering about their hit points intricacies, this guide has got you covered!

Hit Dice

Artificers utilize a d8 for their hit dice, meaning at every level, an artificer rolls 1d8 to calculate additional hit points. Why does this matter?

Remember that your character’s vitality hinges upon these numbers. Despite this seemingly modest dice roll, the Artificer is no pushover in the heat of battle. Their toolkit, filled with magical constructs and wondrous items, more than compensates for what they may lack in sheer brawn.

Hit Points at 1st Level

Starting as an Artificer means that you’ll begin with a solid reserve of health – eight hit points plus your Constitution modifier at your first level.

The importance of having a high Constitution modifier cannot be emphasized enough here. Think of it as an initial life vest that keeps you afloat in turbulent combat situations. Be sure to consider this carefully when designing your character.

Hit Points at Higher Levels

As you progress past the first level as an Artificer, things change slightly where hit points are concerned for every new level beyond the first one.

You’ll roll 1d8 (or decide to take the average result of five) and add your Constitution modifier to garner those extra hit points that keep getting added to your total score each time you advance onto a new level. This model is not unique to the Artificer class; Indeed, many classes follow this pattern.

The most noteworthy point here is how the Constitution modifier continues to play a pivotal role in determining your hit points as you level up.

This persistent influence underlines once again the importance of a robust Constitution score for Artificers, highlighting the careful balance they must maintain between their magical prowess and physical resilience.

Paying attention to these details can truly give you an edge in your D&D adventure. Now that you’re equipped with this information, we’re confident you’ll wield your Artificer character with new vigor and flair! Don’t fear those encounters; remember, every hit point counts.

Abilities of Artificer 5E

The Dungeons & Dragons universe is vast and diverse, with many classes and sub-classes available to players. The Artificer class, introduced in the 5th Edition (5E), stands out as a unique blend of magic and mechanics.

Often envisioned as inventive tinkerers and spellcasters, Artificers use their craft to forge powerful artifacts and deploy ingenious devices. This class is renowned for its diverse abilities and proficiencies.

Proficiencies

In the world of D&D, “proficiencies” indicate a character’s training and adeptness in specific areas. An Artificer’s proficiencies provide insights into their capabilities on the battlefield and in different situations.

From the armor they wear to the weapons and tools they wield, these proficiencies outline the foundation of the Artificer’s skills. Let’s delve deeper into these proficiencies to understand the Artificer’s true potential.

Armor

Armor is more than just protective gear; it represents a character’s first line of defense against the myriad dangers of the D&D universe.

Artificers, being the ingenious craftsmen that they are, not only have proficiency with light and medium armors but can also imbue these armors with magical properties.

This gives them an edge, ensuring their durability in battles. Whether they are facing arrows or arcane spells, an Artificer’s armor is a testament to their innovative spirit and the blend of arcane artistry with physical protection.

Their mastery over armor also allows them to customize it, reflecting their personal style and strategic preferences.

Weapons

Weapons are the extension of a warrior’s arm, and for an Artificer, they are both tools and channels for their magical abilities. Artificers have proficiency with simple weapons—like hammers, daggers, and slings.

But what sets them apart is their capacity to infuse these weapons with magical energy, turning a simple dagger into a blade bursting with arcane power.

This combination of craftsmanship and magic makes them formidable opponents. Even though they might not wield heavy or exotic weapons like other classes, their innovation and magical enhancements ensure they’re never at a disadvantage in combat.

Tools

In the hands of an Artificer, tools become much more than mere instruments. They are the conduits through which their magic and mechanical prowess are channeled.

Artificers have proficiency with thieves’ tools, tinker’s tools, and one type of artisan’s tools of their choice. This variety gives them the versatility to pick locks, disarm traps, or craft intricate devices.

More importantly, with their Infuse Item ability, they can imbue these tools with magical properties. This could turn a simple tool into a gadget of immense utility, making the Artificer indispensable in both combat scenarios and puzzle-solving situations.

Saving Throws

In the dangerous terrains and tumultuous battles of D&D, saving throws determine a character’s ability to resist specific effects or hazards, from deadly spells to treacherous pitfalls.

Artificers have proficiency in Constitution and Intelligence saving throws. Constitution saves help them endure physical challenges, like resisting poisons or stabilizing when critically injured.

Intelligence saves reflect their sharp mind and aptitude in understanding and resisting effects that target the mind, such as illusions or enchantment spells. These proficiencies underline the Artificer’s resilience and intellectual fortitude.

Skills

Skills represent a character’s non-combat abilities, shaping their interactions with the world around them. Artificers can choose two skills from a list that includes Arcana, History, Investigation, Medicine, Nature, and Perception.

This selection showcases their versatility. Arcana and Nature reflect their knowledge of magical and natural phenomena, respectively. History and Investigation allow them to unearth secrets or analyze complex situations, while Medicine lets them tend to the wounded.

Perception, on the other hand, heightens their awareness, helping them notice hidden threats or clues. Through these skills, an Artificer’s role is not limited to combat; they can be healers, researchers, or even detectives.

Class Features

When discussing role-playing game mechanics, particularly within the realm of fantasy settings, the term “Class Features” refers to the unique abilities and traits that differentiate one class from another.

They provide characters with distinctive capabilities, creating a rich tapestry of potential strategies and interactions within the game world. In the sections below, we’ll delve into some specific class features, exploring their nuances and impacts on gameplay.

Magical Tinkering

Magic and machinery come together in the art of Magical Tinkering. Practitioners of this skill can imbue everyday objects with magical properties, albeit in minor and often temporary ways.

It’s not about casting grand spells but rather adding subtle enhancements. A tinkerer might make a trinket glow softly, produce a recorded message, or emit a specific scent.

This feature lets players be creative with their surroundings, turning mundane items into tools or distractions. Imagine a coin that glows to guide the way or a locket that plays a lullaby. The possibilities, though limited in power, are endless in imagination.

Spellcasting

The ability to cast spells is a cherished and defining trait of many classes. Spellcasting allows characters to tap into arcane or divine sources, channeling energy to produce effects that range from healing wounds to summoning storms.

Spellcasters must prepare their spells, choosing a specific set each day from a broader list they know. They also have spell slots, dictating how many spells they can cast before needing to rest and recharge.

Mastery of this feature can make a character both a formidable foe and a treasured ally, as they can reshape the battlefield or turn the tide of an encounter with just a word.

Infuse Item

Infusion is the art of embedding magic into items, elevating their properties beyond the ordinary. Those skilled in this craft can take a regular sword and grant it the sharpness of a razor’s edge or make a shield nearly impenetrable. Infusing an item is more permanent than Magical Tinkering, and the effects can be significantly more potent.

There’s a limit to how many items a character can infuse at once, necessitating strategic decisions. A player might have to choose between an armor that deflects arrows and boots that silence footsteps. Such choices can greatly influence a character’s approach to challenges.

The Right Tool for the Job

In the vast and unpredictable world of fantasy, versatility is a precious commodity. “The Right Tool for the Job” is a feature that lets a character spontaneously produce the perfect tool for a given task.

Whether it’s a crowbar to pry open a door, a set of lockpicks to sneak into a chamber, or a magnifying glass to inspect a tiny clue, this ability ensures that the character is never caught unprepared.

The tools produced are temporary and often magical, fading after their purpose is served. It’s an ode to resourcefulness and adaptability, reflecting a character’s readiness for any situation.

Tool Expertise

Being familiar with tools is one thing, but mastering them is an entirely different level of proficiency. Tool Expertise is the pinnacle of skill, allowing a character to double their proficiency bonus when using a particular set of tools.

Whether it’s the delicate work of potion-making, the precision required in jewel crafting, or the brute force needed in blacksmithing, this feature represents a character’s dedication and years of training.

It showcases their specialization and can often be the difference between success and failure in critical moments. A master alchemist, for instance, can concoct potent brews that a novice couldn’t dream of replicating.

Flash of Genius

Sometimes, in the heat of the moment, clarity strikes like a bolt of lightning. The “Flash of Genius” feature embodies such moments of acute insight.

With it, a character can spontaneously add their intelligence modifier to their own or a teammate’s role, turning a likely failure into a potential success.

Whether it’s deducing a puzzle’s solution at the last second or making a snap decision in battle, this feature represents the character’s profound intellect and sharp reflexes.

It’s a limited resource, though, reflecting the mental toll of such brilliant revelations and the need to use them judiciously.

Magic Item Adept

The realm of magic items is vast and varied, and while many can use them, few truly understand their intricacies. The “Magic Item Adept” feature signifies a character’s growing expertise in handling such artifacts.

They can attune to more items simultaneously, broadening their arsenal of magical capabilities. Additionally, they’ve learned to unlock the potential of these items faster, reducing the time needed for attunement.

This feature showcases a character’s evolving bond with magic items, marking them as more than just a casual user and hinting at a deeper connection to the arcane.

Spell-Storing Item

There’s a distinct advantage in having a backup plan, especially when it comes to magic. “Spell-Storing Item” is a feature that lets a character store a spell within an item for later use, allowing them or their allies to cast it without expending a spell slot.

It’s a strategic tool, offering a reservoir of power for emergencies or coordinated tactics. A wand might release a healing spell just when it’s needed most, or a ring could unleash a bolt of energy to catch foes off-guard.

It emphasizes foresight, preparation, and the versatile uses of magic in various forms.

Magic Item Savant

Diving deeper into the world of enchanted artifacts, the “Magic Item Savant” stands out as an expert in understanding even the most cryptic of magical items.

With this feature, fewer items are beyond their comprehension; they can attune to even those that are class-specific or have other restrictions.

It’s an acknowledgment of the character’s vast knowledge and experience with magical artifacts, showcasing their dedication to mastering every nuance. The world of arcane relics unfurls before them, each mystery waiting to be unraveled and harnessed.

Magic Item Master

At the pinnacle of expertise stands the “Magic Item Master.” This feature represents the zenith of understanding and connection to magical items.

The character can attune to even more items simultaneously, making them a walking arsenal of magical capabilities. Their bond with these artifacts is so profound that they can draw out their powers with increased efficiency and finesse.

It’s not just about wielding these items; it’s about becoming one with them, understanding their essence, and bending that power to the character’s will.

Soul of Artifice

The “Soul of Artifice” is more than just a skill; it’s a testament to a character’s deep bond with creations of magic and mechanism. When faced with mortal peril, the character can tap into this bond, drawing strength from every attuned item to shield themselves from harm.

In this crucial moment, they become a beacon of arcane energy, making a final stand against overwhelming odds. It’s a feature that symbolizes sacrifice, resilience, and the inseparable connection between the artificer and their crafted masterpieces. The soul and the artifice become one, defying fate together.

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What are Artificer 5E infusions?

Artificer Infusions truly represent the flavor of artifice in Dungeons and Dragons 5E. A display of an Artificer’s unique power, infusions are a blend of magic and invention, granting mundane items new magical capabilities. Let’s delve into some fascinating examples.

Ring of Protection

One indispensable item in the Artificer’s repertoire is surely the Ring of Protection. This isn’t just any jewelry you’d find at a common market; this magical accessory will elevate your defenses, giving an extra edge to your AC and saving throws.

Whipping out one such ring of enchantment not only emphasizes your creativity as an Artificer but also shows your value in ensuring everyone returns home safely.

Horn of Blasting

Next up is the audibly threatening Horn of Blasting! With decibels that could rattle a dragon’s scales, this infusion is not one to be ignored.

Primarily known for its sonic wave that can shatter stones to dust, it also bytes with a thunderous roar, shaking every corner of the battlefield, causing a tremor among foes and stunning them into submission.

Cloak of the Bat

Imagine being able to merge with shadows or fly away like Batman – absolutely thrilling, isn’t it? The Cloak of the Bat offers this unique experience in spades.

Once you dawn on this infusion, stealth becomes your second nature, allowing you to maneuver undiscovered while granting detachable wings for times when you want to swoop away from impending danger!

Gauntlets of Ogre Power

Designed to endow you with significant increases to strength attribute scores, these infusions represent oversized mitts imbued with raw brute force – Gauntlets of Ogre Power. Just slipping them on gives you extraordinary power equivalent to that formidable creature’s strike force: an ogre!

Repulsion Shield

Once buckling on the Repulsion Shield, you are instantly at an advantage on the battleground. This infusion gives your shield a magical pulse that can repel enemies away from you and your allies. With strategically timed activations, you could change the tide of a battle cast iron against you.

Alchemy Jug

As an Artificer, your magic kith should surely include Alchemy Jug. It’s an infusion that tops off by producing a variety of liquids as per your command – from healing potions to dangerous acid concoctions! Versatility is its USP, making it relevant in every scenario!

Returning Weapon

No seasoned artificer would dare forget the Returning Weapon! Enchant any thrown weapon with this infusion and watch as it boomerangs right back to your hand after a successful assault.

You’ll never lose your weapon in battle again; avoid scrambling for armaments mid-combat with this nifty infusion!

Choosing the right infusion at opportune moments brings out the ingenuity of an Artificer. These are just some examples; many more astonishing infusions await you in D&D 5E’s rich lore, offering the limitless potential to spice up your gameplay.

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Best race for Artificer 5E

Choosing the right race for your Artificer 5E truly amplifies your gameplay. While every race can spark its unique fun, some synergize incredibly well with the Artificer class. Let’s dive deep into these top races and see why they are considered the best match for Artificer 5E.

Vedalken

The super-intelligent Vedalkens give you a serious head start in intelligence score. Their “+” to intelligence is going to push your casting ability, while their bonus to Wisdom aids in perception checks and mental defenses.

The Vedalkens’ advantage on all Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws against magic makes you resilient against enemy spellcasters.

Their aptitude for learning grants you proficiency in two skills of your choice – perfect for an adaptable artificer. The combination of these traits sets up a Vedalken Artificer as a character brimming with possibilities.

Warforged

Warforged offers immense durability that proves beneficial in intense battles. This living construct provides a “+2” bonus to Constitution and a “+1” to another ability score of your choice.

Choosing Intelligence would be ideal for an Artificer class character since this informs both their spellcasting ability and skillset.

Warforged’s Integrated Protection gives you flexible armor options, while Sentry’s Rest allows you to stay alert even during downtime – quite handy for adventures filled with surprises.

Rock Gnome

The Rock Gnome catches everyone’s eye when it comes to matching with the Artificer class because of its inherent inventiveness reflected in its Tinker Trait.

This attribute allows them to create exciting clockwork devices—a feature that pairs seamlessly with an artificer’s magical tinkering ability.

Besides offering “+2” to Intelligence, they have Darkvision and Advantage on all Wisdom (Perception) checks related to sight or sound-based magic—an exemplary fit indeed!

Kobold

Kobolds come with a distinct trait in the form of Pack Tactics that inspire strategic, synergized gameplay. It uniquely allows you to gain an advantage on an attack roll if at least one of your allies is within 5 feet of the creature and isn’t incapacitated.

This feature makes Kobold Artificers tactical when working in a team. Furthermore, their Grovel, Cower, and Beg traits can be used to distract foes, providing allies with valuable opportunities for an attack.

Although they don’t naturally have a bonus to Intelligence like the other races, their unique abilities offer a different playstyle for creative strategists out there.

Variant Human

The primary reason the Variant Human race is eye-catching is due to its striking customizability. As a Variant Human, you receive “+1” on two ability scores of your choice, a unique feature no other race has.

You also learn an extra skill and gain one Feat of your choice, an excellent bonus that can make your Artificer substantially more powerful or versatile in their early levels.

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Artificer Spells 5E

Artificers, known for their infusion of magic and technology, have an arsenal of cantrips and spells at their disposal.

We’ll be focusing on five integral Artificer spells: Mending, Booming Blade, Cure Light Wounds, Absorb Elements, and Enhance Ability. Each of these presents unique features that can enrich your gameplay in unexpected ways.

Mending (Level: Cantrip)

Mending is a perfect representative of the Artificer’s skill set, blending creativity with practical utility. This spell allows you to repair minor breakages or tears in objects.

That crack in a teapot? Gone. That tear in a tent? Easily fixed. Mending is useful beyond words when you find yourself in tricky situations with damaged gear or need to enjoy a quick fix without purchasing new items.

The value this spell brings to your gameplay isn’t only about repairing damage but also creative problem-solving. Imagine being able to seal doorways or make rapid repairs during combat situations; it’s all possible with Mending!

Booming Blade (Level: Cantrip)

Booming Blade mixes magic with melee to bring an electrifying addition to the battlefield. The spell allows you to create an audible sonic boom bound around the target. If the target willingly moves before its next turn is over, it takes thunder damage.

It’s perfect for one-on-one combat scenarios where limiting opponent mobility is paramount. You’re forcing the enemy into making some difficult tactical decisions—move and take damage or stand still and become an easier target for continued attacks.

Cure Light Wounds (Level: One)

Healing spells are essential parts of any D&D campaign, and Cure Light Wounds offers this service reliably. Just by touching your ally, you cause their wounds to close, restoring lost hit points.

The advantage cannot be underestimated as your Artificer manages to pull teammates from the brink of collapse during intense battles. Cure Light Wounds becomes your go-to spell under circumstances where medical supplies are scarce or immediate healing is needed.

Absorb Elements (Level: One)

An Artificer is inventive by nature, and Absorb Elements perfectly exemplifies that trait. This spell allows you to capture incoming energy from an elemental damage spell, reducing its effect on you while harnessing the power to enhance your next melee attack.

Picture this: a fireball is hurled at you; with Absorb Elements, you soak up part of that flame and convert it into focused energy for a retaliation strike. It’s perfect for enemies who dabble in elemental magic and offers an exciting tactical edge to your Artificer.

Enhance Ability (Level: Two)

The versatility of the Enhance Ability makes it a spell worth treasuring. It gives your Artificer the choice to boost different attributes such as strength, dexterity, constitution, intelligence, wisdom, or charisma.

This flexibility can provide a much-needed advantage in various scenarios – whether strength-based checks during challenging physical tasks or charisma boosts during pressurized negotiations.

Enhance Ability provides strategic character optimization options that can shift the balance in both combat situations and role-playing encounters.

Heat Metal (Level: Two)

Ever wondered what would happen if the enemy’s armor became scorching hot during a battle? Here’s where Heat Metal shines. This spell lets you make any piece of metal searingly hot, causing severe discomfort or even damage.

Leaving your opponent with the choice to either endure the pain or attempt to remove the now fiery-hot metal gives you an ingenious tactical advantage.

Manage to target their weapon, and they might find it too hot to continue holding. The extensive applications and versatility of this spell make it a potent arsenal addition for your Artificer.

Revivify (Level: Three)

Nobody wants to encounter character death in D&D. But hey, it happens. Enter Revivify, a spell designed to bring characters back from the brink of death. If a party member perishes innings during combat, your Artificer can pull off this magic and bring it back into play.

While Revivify won’t restore missing body parts or cure diseases that caused death in the first place, its life-saving magic is simply vital for keeping your team intact through punishing encounters.

Otiluke’s Resilient Sphere (Level: Four)

The ability to create an indestructible sphere around a creature sounds like something straight out of a science fiction story – but with Otiluke’s Resilient Sphere, it’s completely possible. This spell forms a shimmering force field that can contain creatures or objects within its radius.

Whether used to protect allies from incoming attacks or contain dangerous enemies inside, Otilike’s resilient sphere is strategically invaluable. Flexible usage allows for high creative potential and makes this one of my favorite spells in the Artificer’s library.

Creation (Level: Five)

We arrive at Creation – one of Magic’s most creative spells! It offers a world where limited resources are not an issue because you can create whatever you need.

Needs a dagger or a key to unlock a door? With Creation, you can bring these into existence. At the same time, the duration might vary based on the material used to create the object.

The possibilities are virtually endless, providing you with freedom and tactical options in various situations. An Artificer and the spell Creation are certainly a match made in the magical realms of D&D.

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FAQs about Artificer 5E