How useful is a familiar 5e?

How Useful is a Familiar 5e?

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), a familiar is a magical creature that is bound to a caster, typically a wizard or a warlock. In 5th edition, familiars have gained more prominence, and they can be a valuable addition to any party. In this article, we’ll explore the uses and benefits of having a familiar in your 5e campaign.

What Can a Familiar Do?

Before we dive into the usefulness of a familiar, let’s first look at what they can do. Familiars are capable of taking the following actions:

• Moving up to their speed and performing an action
• Taking the Help action to assist the caster
• Performing a variety of sensory checks, such as Perception or Intelligence (Investigation) checks
• Delivering touch spells, allowing the caster to cast spells from a distance

Why Have a Familiar?

So, why would you want to have a familiar? Here are some benefits:

• Scouting: Familiars can scout ahead, searching for hidden enemies, secret doors, or valuable items.
• Spelling delivery: As mentioned earlier, familiars can deliver touch spells, allowing the caster to cast spells from a distance.
• Assistance: Familiars can take the Help action, assisting the caster in combat or with skill checks.
• Diplomacy: Familiars can be used to negotiate with NPCs, using their Charisma score to influence the outcome.
• Stealth: Familiars can move stealthily, allowing them to sneak past enemies undetected.

Best Uses for a Familiar

So, when is it best to use a familiar? Here are some scenarios:

• Exploration: Use your familiar to scout ahead, searching for hidden enemies or secret doors.
• Combat: Use your familiar to take the Help action, assisting the caster in combat.
• Diplomacy: Use your familiar to negotiate with NPCs, using their Charisma score to influence the outcome.
• Stealth: Use your familiar to move stealthily, sneaking past enemies undetected.

Familiar Options

In 5e, there are several familiar options available. Here are some of the most common:

• Imps: Imps are the most common familiar, available to warlocks. They have a high Intelligence score and can deliver touch spells.
• Owls: Owls are a popular choice for familiars, available to wizards. They have a high Wisdom score and can move stealthily.
• Cats: Cats are another popular choice, available to wizards. They have a high Dexterity score and can move quickly.
• Rats: Rats are the least popular choice, but they can still be useful. They have a high Intelligence score and can move stealthily.

Table: Familiar Options

Conclusion

In conclusion, familiars can be a valuable addition to any party. They can scout ahead, deliver touch spells, take the Help action, and more. Whether you choose an imp, an owl, a cat, or a rat, a familiar can be a useful asset in your 5e campaign.