The Best Background for a Fighter in D&D: Exploring the Options
In Dungeons & Dragons, choosing the right background for your fighter can greatly impact your character’s abilities, playstyle, and overall storytelling potential. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming for new players to decide on the best background for their fighter. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top backgrounds for fighters, highlighting their key features and benefits.
Soldiers: The Best Background for a Fighter
The Soldier background is a natural choice for a fighter, and for good reason. Soldiers are proficient in Athletics and Intimidation, two skills that are essential for a fighter. They also start with a trophy from their battle exploits, which can serve as a memorable keepsake or a plot point for your character.
| Skill | Proficiency |
|---|---|
| Athletics | yes |
| Intimidation | yes |
| Performance | no |
| History | no |
Background Features
As a soldier, you start with a few useful background features that can enhance your character’s abilities. You gain the following:
- Martial Instinct: You gain advantage on Wisdom saving throws made to avoid opportunity attacks.
- Trophy: You start with a trophy from your battles, which can serve as a memorable keepsake or a plot point for your character.
Other Considerations
While the Soldier background is a great choice for a fighter, other backgrounds may also be worth considering. Here are a few examples:
- Outlander: The Outlander background provides a rural, rustic setting for your character to come from, which can add an interesting layer to their backstory and personality. You gain the following features:
- Traveler: You have access to wilderness survival skills, which can be useful in outdoor encounters.
- Explorer: You’re knowledgeable about plants and animals, which can be useful for survival and exploration.
- Knight: The Knight background is perfect for those who want to play a chivalrous, code-bound character. You gain the following features:
- Code of Honor: You follow a code of conduct that emphasizes honesty, justice, and self-discipline.
- Battle-Tested: You’re experienced in combat, gaining advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks and initiative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Soldier background is the best choice for a fighter in D&D. It provides essential skills, proficiency, and features that complement a fighter’s abilities and playstyle. However, other backgrounds may also be worth considering, depending on your character’s backstory, personality, and playstyle. Whether you choose to play a soldier, an outlander, or a knight, the right background can help bring your fighter to life and enhance their adventures.