Elements That Make a Necromantic Spellcaster Build Unique and Engaging in Dungeons and Dragons

You and what army— Rattle rattle… The obvious difference between necromantic builds and others is that Animate Dead and a couple of similar spells have an almost unique place in Dungeons and Dragons (DD): they aren’t short-term spells and don’t have to be your one piece of concentration. A necromancer really can stack up as many skeletons as they can afford to spend spell slots on — besides just looking cool it’s the ultimate use of the combat “action economy” the idea that the winning side is the one that just does more more times each round. The Bone Brigade has that covered.

Stacking Skeletons for Maximum Effectiveness

One of the key aspects of a necromantic build is the ability to stack up as many skeletons as possible. This is not just about aesthetics but about maximizing the combat “action economy.” In DD, the winning side is often the one that can execute more actions per round. The Bone Brigade, composed of animated undead, embodies this principle beautifully. Skeletons are cheap to maintain and can be endlessly recreated from grave offerings, making them a valuable resource for any necromancer.

Sacred vs. Sinister: The Duality of Necromancy

Another distinction of necromancy is that it might be the most sinister thing in the game. Tolkien himself used “The Necromancer” as the name for the most dreaded being in The Hobbit, and this only reinforces how stories for centuries have viewed the concept. A necromancer is an easy choice for a game’s villain, and as a player character, it can be a compelling choice for something more edgy or conflicted if the character is not evil but is suspected or accused of being so.

The Distinctive Nature of Necromancy in DD

What truly sets necromancy apart in DD is its versatility and distinctiveness. It is perhaps the most developed and versatile magical school that isn’t tied to a particular class, such as clerics or druids. Any player can claim a fondness for wind magic or illusions, but necromancy has more options and a stronger sense of continuity across its various forms.

Expanded Roster of Necromantic Abilities

Necromancy is not just about controlling undead but also provides direct attacks, divination, and even healing. It is almost the entire spell system in miniature, with a limit only of “as long as it’s got a darkly cool spin to it.” This versatility means that if there’s anything a player character needs to do, a necromancer can usually find a way to accomplish it through their unique skill set.

Conclusion

Whether you want to be a sinister villain or a conflicted protagonist, necromancy offers a wealth of opportunities and options in Dungeons and Dragons. From stacking skeletons for maximum effectiveness in combat to navigating the moral complexities of undead manipulation, necromancy is a versatile and engaging choice for any player.

Discover more ways to make your character unique and engaging in Dungeons and Dragons by exploring the vast array of spells and abilities available to necromantic spellcasters.