5 D&D Subclasses That Improved the Most in the Updated 5e Rules

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The latest update to *Dungeons & Dragons* 5th Edition, released in 2024, includes significant revisions and clarifications to the game’s rules. These changes are based on feedback from players over the years and are reflected in updated versions of the Player’s Handbook, Dungeon Master’s Guide, and Monster Manual. Everything from character classes to monsters has been adjusted. Some classes, like the Artificer, are currently unavailable while they’re updated to fit the new rules, but many *D&D* fans are already excited about the revised subclasses.

It’s been a little over a year since the updated 2024 version of the *Dungeons & Dragons Player’s Handbook* came out. After trying the revised class and subclass options, some have clearly become favorites. While the update introduced a few completely new subclasses, many are simply updated versions of older ones – and some are noticeably more enjoyable to play. Here are 5 *D&D* subclasses that have really benefited from the 2024 rule changes.

5. Warrior of the Elements Monk

Playing a monk in *Dungeons & Dragons* presents a unique challenge. It’s a close-combat class, but unlike heavily armored fighters, monks don’t have as much defense. The Way of the Four Elements monk, often called the Avatar, was especially difficult to master. Many of its powers used up too much Ki, making it hard to use effectively in a fight.

The updated rules for the Warrior of the Elements class are much improved. The Reach ability allows you to attack enemies from a safer distance, and Elemental Strike lets you add elemental damage without using resources. While some players would like it to more closely resemble the bending abilities from *Avatar: The Last Airbender*, it’s a significant upgrade over the previous, somewhat awkward, spellcasting version.

4. Wild Magic Sorcerer

Let me tell you about my current D&D 5e character! I’m playing a Wild Magic Sorcerer, which has always been a risky class because of its unpredictable magic. In the past, the chances of something going wrong were higher than going right, making every spell a bit of a gamble. Some players enjoyed that chaotic element, but it often kept others from trying the class.

Okay, so the latest rules update for 2024 is a big win for Wild Magic Sorcerers like me! They’ve tweaked the Wild Magic Surge table, which used to be super scary. There are still some potentially bad rolls – like turning into a plant, yikes! – but overall, you’re way more likely to get a helpful surge. It means playing a Wild Magic Sorcerer still *feels* random and exciting, but you’re less likely to get completely wrecked in the middle of a fight. We still don’t get as many spell slots as some other Sorcerer builds, but these improved surges really help make up for it. It feels much more balanced now!

3. Archfey Patron Warlock

Warlocks received significant updates in the latest edition of the game. Players now choose their special subclass and gain new powers earlier than before. These changes were particularly beneficial for the Archfey Warlock, a popular choice known for its connection to the magical world of faeries.

Previously, the Archfey Patron Warlock became less effective as players leveled up – abilities that were good at first lost their impact. The updated version for 2024 addresses this with more diverse options, including exciting teleportation abilities like those from Steps of the Fey, which grants Misty Step at level 3. Having both Misty Step and Blink available creates a fun, mobile playstyle, reminiscent of the X-Men character Nightcrawler, and is a significant improvement over the earlier version.

2. Eldritch Knight Fighter

The Eldritch Knight sounds great in theory, but it hasn’t always been very satisfying to play. Older versions were restrictive about which spells you could use, making it hard to create a powerful character. It was so complex to play effectively that many players chose other subclasses instead.

The 2024 rules update significantly improves this class, primarily by removing restrictions on spell selection, giving players more freedom in how they build their characters. Abilities like War Magic now boost damage earlier in the game, and work better with other skills to create a more seamless experience for players who enjoy combining magic and combat. Many fans believe these changes finally make the class a strong and enjoyable option to play.

1. Oath of Devotion Paladin

While many players choose the Oath of Devotion Paladin, it often feels underwhelming. It doesn’t truly excel in any one area, instead offering a bit of everything without being exceptional. This ‘jack-of-all-trades’ nature meant it was good, but rarely the first choice for players seeking a powerful, specialized build.

The 2024 rules update significantly improves the Oath of Devotion Paladin, making it much more flexible. The Sacred Weapon feature is now easier to use, and important abilities like Smite and Lay On Hands can be activated as bonus actions, which streamlines gameplay. Additionally, the Channel Divinity feature gets stronger as you level up, making this subclass a strong choice throughout the game. Many consider it the most substantial improvement in the updated rules, and Paladin players will be pleased.

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2025-09-19 17:45