Dungeons & Dragons is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in popularity. From the impact of Stranger Things and the Honor Among Thieves movie to the rise of D&D podcasts and YouTube channels, and the phenomenal success of Baldur's Gate 3, the timing couldn't be better to join the adventure.
However, navigating the wealth of 5th Edition (5e) D&D content, especially the vast offerings from third-party creators, can be daunting for newcomers. This guide focuses primarily on official Wizards of the Coast publications, omitting the essential Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual (updated in 2024), assuming you already possess these core rulebooks. If not, acquire them first! You can find the latest editions linked below.
AnswerSee ResultsFirst-Party Content: Recommended Sourcebooks and Adventures
Core Rulebooks
12$49.99 at Amazon
7$49.99 at Amazon
5$49.99 at Amazon
Xanathar's Guide to Everything (Sourcebook)
10See it at Amazon
A cornerstone sourcebook (2017), expanding player options with subclasses, racial feats, spells, and helpful DM tools. Highly beneficial for players seeking diverse character builds.
Tasha's Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)
5See it at Amazon
Similar to Xanathar's, this sourcebook enhances player options and core rulebook concepts, offering optional class features, new spells, and DM tools for sidekicks and environmental elements.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)
3See it at Amazon
A compelling intrigue-driven adventure, emphasizing social encounters and political maneuvering rather than solely combat. Features multiple antagonists for replayability. A sequel, Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage, offers a contrasting dungeon-crawl experience.
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)
4See it at Amazon
A comprehensive exploration of the Planescape setting, including a setting book (Sigil and the Outlands), a monster manual (Morte's Planar Parade), and an adventure (Turn of Fortune's Wheel).
Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)
3See it at Amazon
A significant expansion to The Lost Mine of Phandelver, returning to Phandalin with a cosmic horror twist involving Mind Flayers.
Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)
9See it at Amazon
A unique setting featuring a post-war world with airships and floating castles, introducing Dragonmarks. Offers opportunities for both roleplaying and action.
Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)
1See it at Amazon
Introduces the Dragonlance setting, focusing on large-scale combat encounters with dragons and Lord Soth.
Curse of Strahd (Adventure)
5See it at Amazon
A gothic horror classic, featuring vampires and creepy encounters. A supplement, Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft, provides additional setting details.
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)
0See it at Amazon
A Feywild adventure with a carnival setting, emphasizing roleplaying and problem-solving with multiple approaches. Includes new playable races and backgrounds.
Brief Mention of Notable Third-Party Content
While this guide primarily focuses on first-party content, several third-party publications deserve mention: Strongholds and Followers (MCDM Productions), Flee, Mortals! and Where Evil Lives (MCDM Productions), Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex (Kobold Press), and Grim Hollow (Ghostfire Gaming).
This selection provides a solid foundation for expanding your D&D experience. Let us know your favorites in the comments!
