How Many Feats Can a Level 20 Character Have?
When it comes to characters in the popular tabletop role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, one of the most sought-after answers is how many feats a level 20 character can have. Feats are special abilities that give characters an edge in battle, and having the right combination of feats can turn a character into a powerful force on the battlefield. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide guidance on how to build an effective level 20 character.
Feats Per Level
Before we dive into the specifics of feat availability at level 20, let’s take a look at how feats work in general. In Dungeons & Dragons, characters typically gain feats at certain intervals, such as every five levels. This means that characters will gain a new feat every five levels, which can be a significant power boost.
Level 20 Feats
At level 20, a character has the potential to have a total of 7 feats. This number comes from the following feats:
- 1st level: 1 feat
- 5th level: 1 feat
- 10th level: 1 feat
- 15th level: 1 feat
- 20th level: 1 feat (automatic)
Additional Feats
In addition to the feats gained through character levels, there are also additional feats that can be obtained through other means, such as:
- Magic items: Some magic items grant feats to the wielder.
- Class abilities: Certain classes, such as the fighter, may grant feats as part of their class abilities.
- Racial abilities: Certain races may grant feats as part of their racial abilities.
Feats Versus Ability Score Increases
One important thing to consider when building a level 20 character is the tradeoff between feats and ability score increases. Ability score increases are a way to raise a character’s ability scores, which can be valuable in certain situations. Feats, on the other hand, provide specific benefits and abilities.
What to Consider When Building a Level 20 Character
When building a level 20 character, there are several things to consider in addition to feats:
- Ability scores: As mentioned earlier, ability score increases can be valuable, and choosing the right ability scores for your character can make a big difference.
- Classes: Choosing the right class for your character can determine which feats are available.
- Racial abilities: Racial abilities can be a great way to obtain feats, and choosing the right race can make a big difference.
- Combat style: The way a character fights can greatly influence which feats are most important.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a level 20 character in Dungeons & Dragons can have a maximum of 7 feats. These feats can be obtained through character levels, magic items, class abilities, or racial abilities. When building a level 20 character, it’s important to consider the tradeoff between feats and ability score increases, as well as classes, racial abilities, and combat style.
Example Feat Builds
Here are a few examples of feat builds for a level 20 character:
Build 1: Multiclass Fighter/Wizard
- 1st level: Combat Reflexes, Mage Armor
- 5th level: Exotic Weapon Proficiency (short sword), Spellbreaker
- 10th level: Toughness, Iron Will
- 15th level: Extra Attack, Spell Focus
- 20th level: Automatic feat (Magic Missile)
Build 2: Barbarian/Druid
- 1st level: Uncanny Dodge, Wild Empathy
- 5th level: Endurance, Track
- 10th level: Toughness, Fearless
- 15th level: Wild Shape, Rage Immunity
- 20th level: Automatic feat (Berserker’s Fury)
Table: Feat Availability at Level 20
| Level | Feat Name |
|---|---|
| 1st | Combat Reflexes |
| 5th | Exotic Weapon Proficiency (short sword) |
| 10th | Toughness |
| 15th | Extra Attack |
| 20th | Automatic feat (Magic Missile) |
Bibliography
- "The Player’s Handbook" – Wizards of the Coast (2008)
- "The Dungeon Master’s Guide" – Wizards of the Coast (2008)
I hope this article has been helpful in answering the question of how many feats a level 20 character can have. Remember to keep in mind the tradeoffs between feats and ability score increases, as well as the importance of choosing the right class, racial ability, and combat style when building your character. Good luck, and happy rolling!