In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we breakdown the changes to the Ranger class in the 2024 rules of Dungeons and Dragons. We go through each class feature and highlight the differences from previous versions.

Summary

We discuss the improvements to spellcasting, the changes to Favored Enemy and Favored Foe, the addition of more expertise, and the new subclass features. We were disappointed with the capstone feature, Foe Slayer. Overall, we acknowledge that while the Ranger class has seen some improvements, it still has its flaws and is considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules.

We dig into the subclasses of the Ranger class in D&D 5e. We talk about the Beastmaster, Feywanderer, Gloomstalker, and Hunter subclasses. We highlight the changes and improvements made to the subclasses in the 2024 rules, but also point out some issues and frustrations. We discuss the balance between using Hunter's Mark and other class features, and the impact of concentration on the Ranger's gameplay. We were unenthusiastic with the changes made to the Gloomstalker subclass and the nerfs to the Hunter subclass. Overall, we feel that the Ranger class still has some design flaws and missed opportunities.

Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the changes made to some signature ranger spells, including the removal of concentration requirements. We were concerned about the heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark and the lack of flavor in the ranger class. We suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, allowing for more diverse and flavorful gameplay. Despite the criticisms, they acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version.

Links

• Player’s Handbook (affiliate link)
• Content from RPGBOT.net
• 2024 DnD 5e Transition Guide
• 2024 DnD 5e Ranger Guide
• 2024 DnD 5e Ranger Subclasses Guide
• Previous RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• Rangers 1-4
• Rangers 5-20

Takeaways

• The Ranger class in the 2024 rules has seen some improvements compared to previous versions.
• The changes to spellcasting, such as the ability to change prepared spells and the reduction of reliance on concentration, are considered positive.
• The Favored Enemy and Favored Foe features have been updated to provide more versatility and options for the Ranger.
• The addition of more expertise and the removal of the bonus action requirement for two-weapon fighting are welcomed changes.
• However, the capstone feature, Foe Slayer, is considered underwhelming and disappointing.
• While the Ranger class has seen improvements, it is still considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules. The 2024 rules made improvements to the Ranger subclasses, but there are still some frustrations and missed opportunities.
• The Beastmaster subclass can be effective without relying on Hunter's Mark, but it can feel limited and overshadowed by other options.
• The Feywanderer subclass received no changes and remains a strong option for Rangers.
• The Gloomstalker subclass was nerfed and lost its extra attack feature, which disappointed the hosts.
• The Hunter subclass also received changes, but the removal of options and the reliance on Hunter's Mark led to some dissatisfaction.
• The hosts discuss the issue of concentration and the impact it has on the Ranger's gameplay.
• Overall, the hosts feel that the Ranger class still has design flaws and could benefit from further improvements. The removal of concentration requirements for certain ranger spells is seen as a positive change, allowing rangers to use a wider range of spells in combat.
• The heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark as a damage boost is a concern, as it limits the variety of spells rangers can use.
• The hosts suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, as they offer more diverse and flavorful gameplay options.
• Despite the criticisms, the hosts acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version.

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