The Fighter 5e in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e) is one of the most reliable, straightforward, and powerful martial classes in the game. Fighters are experts in physical combat, known for their toughness, weapon mastery, and sheer number of attacks. Whether you’re wielding a sword and shield or firing arrows from afar, the Fighter can be built in countless ways to match your playstyle. This class is also an excellent starting point for new players due to its simple mechanics and high survivability.
Core Features of the Fighter Class
The Fighter class is designed to survive and thrive in battle. Here are some of its core features:
- Hit Dice: Fighters use a d10 hit die, giving them a large health pool and making them excellent frontliners.
- Proficiencies: They have proficiency with all armor types, shields, and all weapons—both simple and martial.
- Saving Throws: Fighters have Strength and Constitution saving throws, which help them resist physical threats.
- Skill Choices: Choose two skills from a list including Athletics, Perception, Intimidation, and more. These skills often reflect their training and battlefield awareness.
Fighter 5e Class Features by Level
As Fighters level up, they gain unique abilities that make them stronger in and out of combat.
Level 1: Fighting Style & Second Wind
- Fighting Style lets you specialize. Options include:
- Defense (bonus AC),
- Dueling (bonus damage when using one weapon),
- Archery (better ranged attacks), and others.
- Second Wind is a bonus action that lets you regain 1d10 + Fighter level HP—very helpful in the middle of combat.
Action Surge: Level 2
- Action Surge gives you one extra action on your turn. This can be used for a second attack or anything else—once per short rest. It’s incredibly powerful for turning the tide of battle.
Level 5: Extra Attack
- You can attack twice whenever you take the Attack action. This increases again at higher levels, making the Fighter unmatched in raw attack volume.
Higher Levels
- Indomitable lets you reroll a failed saving throw once per long rest.
- More Extra Attacks, Ability Score Improvements, and even more Action Surges come at higher levels.
Fighter Martial Archetypes (Subclasses)
At level 3, Fighters choose a Martial Archetype—a subclass that defines their specialty.
- Champion – Great for beginners. Improves your critical hits and physical skills like jumping or climbing.
- Battle Master – Tactical warriors that use maneuvers to control the battlefield. You can trip enemies, push them back, or add damage and effects.
- Eldritch Knight – A hybrid of Fighter and Wizard. You gain spells like Shield, Mage Armor, and Fireball—great for magical versatility.
Other archetypes include Samurai (burst damage and advantage), Echo Knight (summon an echo copy to fight with), and Psi Warrior (telekinetic powers).
Best Races for Fighter Builds
Choosing the right race helps boost your Fighter’s core stats.
- Mountain Dwarf – Bonus to Strength and Constitution; perfect for melee builds.
- Half-Orc – Great for crit-heavy builds like Champion. “Relentless Endurance” keeps you from going down.
- Variant Human – Choose a feat at level 1, which is a big advantage.
- Goliath – Natural Athlete and resistance to damage makes this a tanky choice.
- Dragonborn – Strength bonus and a breath weapon for added flair.
Effective Fighter Builds
You can build your Fighter in many ways:
- Sword & Shield Fighter – Focus on defense and staying alive. Use the Defense Fighting Style and a heavy armor loadout.
- Great Weapon Fighter – Combine with the Great Weapon Master feat for devastating melee strikes.
- Ranged Fighter – Take Archery style and focus on bows or crossbows. Battle Master works well here too.
- Eldritch Knight – Mix spellcasting with weapon attacks. Useful spells: Shield, Misty Step, Magic Missile.
Multiclassing Options for Fighters
Multiclassing gives your Fighter extra abilities:
- Fighter + Rogue: Add sneak attack damage, stealth, and cunning actions.
- Fighter + Wizard: A deeper Eldritch Knight with more magic potential.
- Fighter + Barbarian: Become a rage-fueled powerhouse with unbreakable strength.
When multiclassing, plan your ability scores carefully. Fighters use Strength or Dexterity and need Constitution for defense.
Roleplaying a Fighter Character
Fighters can come from any background. Ideas include:
- A retired soldier turned mercenary.
- A gladiator seeking freedom or fame.
- A noble knight defending their homeland.
- A former criminal trying to redeem themselves through combat.
Think about your Fighter’s values: loyalty, honor, power, or survival. Even though they’re focused on battle, they can have deep personal stories.
Tips for Playing a Fighter in D&D 5e
- Positioning matters: Always be on the front line unless you’re an archer.
- Use Action Surge wisely: Great for finishing off enemies or saving allies.
- Keep moving: Use battlefield control and feats like Sentinel or Polearm Master for tactical play.
- Pair with casters: Fighters benefit from buffs and healing, like Haste, Bless, or Healing Word.
Comparison with Other Martial Classes
- Barbarian – Better raw durability (rage), but fewer attacks.
- Paladin – Divine spells and healing, but less flexible.
- Ranger – More utility and spells, but fewer attacks.
- Monk – Agile and fast, but less armored and more complex.
Choose Fighter if you want a reliable warrior who always gets the job done.
Conclusion
The Fighter 5e is one of the most flexible and effective classes in Dungeons & Dragons. With powerful features like Extra Attack, Action Surge, and access to every weapon and armor in the game, Fighters dominate physical combat. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned player, there’s always a fun and powerful way to build a Fighter that fits your campaign and playstyle.
If you want consistency, strength, and heroic moments in battle—pick the Fighter.
FAQs about Fighter 5e
- What is the role of a Fighter 5e in a party?
Fighter 5e serves as a frontline tank or damage dealer, offering high durability and consistent attacks. - Can Fighter 5e use magic?
Yes, the Eldritch Knight subclass allows Fighter 5e to cast spells while still excelling in melee. - Is Fighter 5e good for beginners?
Absolutely, Fighter 5e is one of the easiest and most effective classes for new D&D players. - How many attacks does a Fighter 5e get?
Fighter 5e can attack up to 4 times per turn with Extra Attack and Action Surge at higher levels. - What’s the best subclass for Fighter 5e?
Champion is simple and strong, while Battle Master adds strategy; it depends on your playstyle.
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Pros and Cons of Playing a Fighter
The Good
- Highest number of attacks in the game.
- Tough and hard to kill.
- Easy for beginners and deep for veterans.
- Tons of build options (melee, ranged, magic).
Cons:
- Limited utility outside combat (unless multiclassed or Eldritch Knight).
- Can feel repetitive if you don’t use maneuvers or feats creatively.
