2024 D&D PHB WEAPON MASTERY BREAKDOWN: If you attack something, you're going to do damage

RPGBOT.Podcast

Unleash the power of your weapons with the new mastery system in the newest D&D 5E rules! Join us as we delve into the exciting new weapon mastery system and discover the endless possibilities it brings to the battlefield. From crushing hordes of enemies to perfecting your combat strategy, this system is sure to enhance your D&D experience. Prepare for epic battles and let your weapons reign supreme!

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss the new weapon mastery system in the 2024 D&D 5E rules. We cover the Cleave mastery, which allows for an extra attack against a second creature within reach; the Graze mastery, which deals damage to a missed target; the Nick mastery, which allows for an extra attack as part of the attack action; and every other option. We discuss the weapons that can have these masteries, when to use them, and potential synergies. We talk about the possibility of using minions in combat and how the weapon masteries can enhance gameplay.

We breakdown the changes made to two-weapon fighting, the action economy, and the impact on different classes. We highlight the potential power and balance issues with the slow and push properties, as well as the synergy between slow and topple. We express concerns about the potential for combat encounters to become unbalanced and frustrating for players.

We share our opinions on the weapon masteries in general and discuss the meta of the game, particularly the disparity between spellcasters and martial characters. We address a listener question about bringing martial characters up to snuff and the potential solutions to the imbalance.

Links

• 2024 DnD Rules Transition Guide
• 2024 DnD 5e Player’s Handbook (affiliate link)
• Baseketball
• H John Benjamin “Well, I Should Have Learned to Play the Piano”

Takeaways

• The weapon mastery system in the 2024 D&D 5E rules introduces new mechanics for martial classes.
• The Cleave mastery allows for an extra attack against a second creature within reach.
• The Graze mastery deals damage to a missed target, providing a consistent damage floor.
• The Nick mastery allows for an extra attack as part of the attack action.
• Weapon masteries can enhance gameplay and provide more options for character builds. The 2024 rules introduced new weapon properties, including light, push, slow, and topple.
• The changes to two-weapon fighting make it more accessible for new players and simplify the action economy.
• The slow and push properties have the potential to unbalance combat encounters and frustrate players.
• The synergy between slow and topple can lead to powerful combinations and make melee combat less viable.
• The hosts suggest that the slow property should have a saving throw or be reduced to a smaller speed penalty. The Vex weapon mastery is primarily for ranged weapons and is useful for setting up sneak attacks.
• The choice between longbows and shortbows now depends on whether you prioritize slow or more damage.
• Advantage has become more accessible in 5e, making Vex less impactful in certain situations.
• The weapon masteries in the 2024 rules have shifted the meta and given martial characters a significant boost.
• The hosts have mixed opinions on the weapon masteries, with some concerns about balance and power level.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It’s a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati