Wizards of the Coast has offered fans a first look at the redesigned Rogue class for the upcoming 2024 Player’s Handbook of Dungeons & Dragons. This iconic class, a favorite among players for its versatility & cunning, has undergone significant changes while maintaining its core identity.
Introducing Cunning Strike: A New Dimension to Sneak Attacks
The most notable addition to the Rogue’s arsenal is the Cunning Strike ability, unlocked at 5th level. This new feature builds upon the unchanged Sneak Attack mechanic, allowing players to trade damage for powerful secondary effects. Rogues can now choose to:
- Poison their target
- Cause the target to fall prone
- Withdraw & move half their speed without provoking opportunity attacks
Each Cunning Strike effect “costs” a certain number of Sneak Attack dice, with Rogues initially able to use one effect & later gaining the ability to combine multiple effects. At 14th level, even more potent Cunning Strike options become available, requiring a higher “cost” in Sneak Attack dice.
Enhanced Combat Capabilities
The new Rogue design incorporates several features to boost their combat effectiveness:
- Access to the Weapon Mastery system, aligning with other martial classes
- Integration of Steady Aim, previously an optional ability from Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything
- Reliable Talent now available at 7th level instead of 11th
- Slippery Mind granting proficiency in both Wisdom & Charisma saving throws
Expanded Skill Set & Linguistic Prowess
The redesign also enhances the Rogue’s non-combat abilities:
- Thieves’ Cant, a 1st level ability, now includes an additional language proficiency
- Earlier access to Reliable Talent allows for greater skill mastery at lower levels
Stroke of Luck: A More Potent Capstone
The 20th level ability, Stroke of Luck, has received a significant upgrade:
- Can now be used on Saving Throws
- Turns a failed attack into a Natural 20 & a Critical Hit
Subclass Enhancements
Each Rogue subclass has received tailored improvements:
Arcane Trickster:
- Ability to swap out cantrips when leveling up
Assassin:
- Easier activation of Assassinate & Death Strike abilities
Soulknife:
- Weapon mastery applied to psychic blades
Thief:
- Exclusive Cunning Strike option: Stealth Attack
- Additional attunement slot
- Ability to use any Spell Scroll regardless of class restrictions
Check out our previous coverage of the 2024 Player Handbook Below
As Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts eagerly await the release of the 2024 Player’s Handbook in September, these Rogue class updates offer an exciting glimpse into the game’s evolution. With previews of other classes like the Warlock, Druid, Wizard, & Ranger on the horizon, players can expect a refreshed & refined D&D experience that honors the game’s rich legacy while embracing innovation.
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