What is the Strongest Type of Monk?
In the world of Dungeons and Dragons, Monks are a popular choice for players looking for a unique and versatile character build. With their ability to combine martial arts and magical abilities, Monks are capable of dealing massive damage and taking a beating on the battlefield. But with so many different Monk subclasses available, which one is the strongest?
Ranking the Monk Subclasses
In this article, we’ll take a look at the various Monk subclasses available in D&D 5th edition and rank them from weakest to strongest based on their abilities and gameplay.
8. Ascendant Dragon
The Ascendant Dragon Monk subclass focuses on using their ki to imbue their attacks with dragonfire. While it’s a unique and flavorful approach, it’s not necessarily the most powerful. Without access to powerful dragon abilities, the Ascendant Dragon Monk is limited in their ability to deal damage and control the battlefield.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Dragonfire Strike | Deals damage to a target and causes it to take fire damage. |
| Dragonfire Blast | Deals massive fire damage to a target and has a chance to ignites flammable objects. |
7. Drunken Master
The Drunken Master Monk subclass focuses on using their ki to gain temporary bonuses to strength and dexterity. While it’s a fun and creative approach, it’s not necessarily the most effective. Without access to powerful abilities, the Drunken Master Monk is limited in their ability to deal damage and control the battlefield.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Drunken Strike | Gains a bonus to attack and damage rolls. |
| Drunken Defense | Gains a bonus to Armor Class. |
6. Long Death
The Long Death Monk subclass focuses on using their ki to manipulate the life force of their enemies. While it’s a unique and deadly approach, it’s not necessarily the most powerful. Without access to powerful necromantic abilities, the Long Death Monk is limited in their ability to control the battlefield.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Life Draining Strike | Deals damage to a target and causes it to lose hit points. |
| Deathwatch | Gains the ability to see invisible creatures. |
5. Astral Self
The Astral Self Monk subclass focuses on using their ki to manipulate the astral plane. While it’s a unique and powerful approach, it’s not necessarily the most effective. Without access to powerful astral abilities, the Astral Self Monk is limited in their ability to control the battlefield.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Astral Projection | Gains the ability to project their consciousness to other planes. |
| Psychic Strike | Deals damage to a target and has a chance to stun. |
4. Shadow
The Shadow Monk subclass focuses on using their ki to manipulate darkness and shadows. While it’s a unique and deadly approach, it’s not necessarily the most powerful. Without access to powerful shadow abilities, the Shadow Monk is limited in their ability to control the battlefield.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Shadow Walk | Gains the ability to move through shadows. |
| Shadow Strike | Deals damage to a target and has a chance to blind. |
3. Kensei
The Kensei Monk subclass focuses on using their ki to focus their martial arts abilities. While it’s a fun and creative approach, it’s not necessarily the most effective. Without access to powerful martial arts abilities, the Kensei Monk is limited in their ability to deal damage and control the battlefield.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Ki Focal Point | Gains a bonus to attack and damage rolls. |
| Martial Arts Mastery | Gains the ability to deal additional damage with their weapons. |
2. Mercy
The Mercy Monk subclass focuses on using their ki to heal and protect their allies. While it’s a unique and powerful approach, it’s not necessarily the most effective. Without access to powerful healing and protective abilities, the Mercy Monk is limited in their ability to support their party.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Healing Hands | Gains the ability to heal an ally. |
| Protecting Aura | Gains a bonus to the Armor Class of allies within a certain radius. |
1. Open Hand
The Open Hand Monk subclass is the strongest of all, focusing on using their ki to manipulate the battlefield. With access to powerful ki blasts, teleports, and other abilities, the Open Hand Monk is a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Ki Blast | Deals damage to a target and has a chance to knock back. |
| Teleport | Gains the ability to teleport short distances. |
| Ki Shield | Gains a bonus to Armor Class. |
In conclusion, the strongest Monk subclass is the Open Hand. With its access to powerful ki blasts, teleports, and other abilities, the Open Hand Monk is a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. While other Monks may have unique and creative abilities, the Open Hand Monk is the most well-rounded and powerful.
I hope this article helps you in your quest for the strongest Monk subclass in D&D 5th edition. Happy adventuring!