Races

The realms are home to a wide array of races, each with their own distinct cultures, strengths, and quirks. From the towering heights of the mountain peaks to the shadowy depths of the underworld, the diversity of life is boundless.

Humans

Humans are the most adaptable and ambitious of the races, thriving in nearly every environment. Their drive and versatility make them natural leaders and innovators.

Traits

• Ability Score Increase: +1 to all ability scores
• Versatility: Gain proficiency in one additional skill of your choice
• Lifespan: 70-100 years

Cultural Nuances

Humans’ cultures vary greatly depending on their region, ranging from scholarly city-states to nomadic tribes of the desert.

Elves

Elves are known for their grace, longevity, and connection to nature and magic. Their lives are intertwined with the flow of the arcane, making them skilled spellcasters and archers.

Traits

• Ability Score Increase: +2 Dexterity, +1 Intelligence or Wisdom
• Keen Senses: Proficiency in Perception
• Trance: Elves do not need to sleep, instead meditating deeply for 4 hours a day

Subraces

1. High Elves: Masters of arcane magic, known for their intellect and spellcasting.
2. Wood Elves: Fleet-footed hunters, attuned to the forests.
3. Dark Elves (Drow): Shadowy figures of the underworld, skilled in stealth and subterfuge.

Dwarves

Dwarves are hearty folk, skilled in mining, smithing, and enduring the harshest conditions. Their loyalty and tenacity are unmatched.

Traits

• Ability Score Increase: +2 Constitution, +1 Strength or Wisdom
• Darkvision: See in darkness up to 60 feet
• Stonecunning: Gain double proficiency bonus on History checks related to stonework

Subraces

1. Hill Dwarves: Known for their wisdom and resilience.
2. Mountain Dwarves: Powerful warriors with a knack for crafting weapons and armor.

Orcs

Orcs are fierce and primal, known for their brute strength and indomitable will. Though often misunderstood, many orcs strive for honor and redemption.

Traits

• Ability Score Increase: +2 Strength, +1 Constitution
• Relentless Endurance: When reduced to 0 hit points, drop to 1 hit point instead (once per long rest)
• Savage Attacks: When you score a critical hit, roll one additional weapon damage die

Halflings

Halflings are small but nimble, known for their luck and unyielding optimism. They often thrive in tight-knit communities.

Traits

• Ability Score Increase: +2 Dexterity, +1 Charisma
• Lucky: Reroll a 1 on an attack roll, ability check, or saving throw (once per roll)
• Brave: Advantage on saving throws against being frightened

Tieflings

Tieflings bear the mark of infernal heritage, with horns, tails, and an aura of mystery. Despite their appearance, they are fiercely independent and often misunderstood.

Traits

• Ability Score Increase: +2 Charisma, +1 Intelligence
• Hellish Resistance: Resistance to fire damage
• Infernal Legacy: Cast Thaumaturgy cantrip; gain access to Hellish Rebuke and Darkness spells at higher levels

Uncommon Races

The realms also feature unique and rare races such as dragonborn, gnomes, and even elemental beings like genasi. These individuals are less common but no less important in shaping the world’s history.

Choosing Your Race

When selecting a race for your character, consider not just the mechanical benefits but also the cultural background and how it shapes their personality. Will you be an ambitious human, a noble elf, or perhaps a misunderstood tiefling?

Your choice defines your place in the world—choose wisely!