In 5th Edition Dungeons & Dragons, subclasses let players add some flair and personality to the standard classes. They are great for homebrewers, since they let players create character options with a strong theme without making a full class progression. However, there are certain things to consider when homebrewing subclasses for different classes. Here are some tips for making a Druid Circle, either for personal use or publication.
Spells On A Theme
Some druids get an expanded spell list as part of their subclass. This can be a strong source of flavor throughout the class’s progression, ensuring that a druid gains new powers regularly and has access to a different set of tools than any other subclass. Creators should make sure these spells connect to the flavor of the subclass. Some of these should be utility spells, since they are often much more unique than different ways to deal damage.
There is no standard level that druid subclasses gain spells, and some don’t gain spells at all. However, creators should still make sure that the spells are appropriate for the level at which the druid gains them.
New Shapes
Both the Circle of the Moon and several Unearthed Arcana druid subclasses include more options for the druid Wild Shape ability. Some circles include the ability to turn into an elemental, while others let druids turn into an astral version of their regular self.
There are two things for creators to keep in mind when adding more Wild Shape options. They should make sure that the Wild Shape options are transformative in nature. Any options should let a druid turn into something else, otherwise there is nothing to distinguish the ability from something like Channel Divinity.
Creators should also make sure that any transformations are of an appropriate challenge for the druid’s level. In general, it is a good idea to follow the base druid Wild Shape guidelines for beasts – CR ¼ for 2nd level and above, CR ½ for 4th level and above, and CR 1 for 8th level and above – unless the subclass is specifically meant to give Wild Shape more combat potency. If the subclass lets druids change into a different form of themselves, rather than a creature in the monster manual, the abilities granted by the form should be appropriate for the level.
Define The Playstyle
Druids are full casters. Other than that, the druid’s playstyle is largely defined by its subclass. They can be supports, scouts, summoners, or even tanks, depending on the subclass options taken.
This means that it is important for creators to decide how they want their druid to play before outlining subclass abilities. Due to the flexible options of the druid, if a class is build around flavor alone, it will come off as unfocused.
Creators should keep these guidelines in mind, and make sure they don’t make the subclass too strong or too weak at any given level. As for coming up with the flavor for the archetype, they’ll have to use their imagination for that.
