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Turning the Tide of Battle: A (Slightly Tongue-in-Cheek) Guide to Boosting Your AC in D&D 5e
Ah, Armor Class (AC). The bane of every raging barbarian who just wants to soak damage and the saving grace of the rogue who'd rather be a pincushion than a target. But fear not, adventurers! This guide will turn you from a crit magnet into a defensive dynamo (or at least a slightly less squishy one).
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| How To Get Ac Dnd 5e |
Buff Up Your Base
QuickTip: A slow read reveals hidden insights.
- Dexterity is Your Dexterous Friend: For light and medium armor wearers, a high Dexterity score is your best buddy. Dodging arrows like Neo in the Matrix? That's Dexterity. Making improbable leaps to avoid that fireball? Dexterity again (although maybe take the Athletics proficiency for that one). Just remember, Dexterity can't help you if you're weighed down by a suit of armor that makes you look like a walking oven.
- Natural Armor: Born with scales? Got a perpetually grumpy shell? These lucky ducks (or should we say lizards?) get a bonus to their AC without even trying. Just be sure to avoid compliments about your "youthful complexion" if you're a particularly ancient dragonborn.
Armor Up (or Not!)
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
- Light and Medium Armor: Offering a balance between protection and mobility, these are your go-to for characters who like to dodge and weave. Plus, you'll still look somewhat presentable for that post-dungeon tavern brawl.
- Heavy Armor: The ultimate in "don't touch me" defense. The downside? You'll move about as gracefully as a drunken hippopotamus in roller skates. But hey, who needs to dodge when you can just be an immovable wall of steel?
- Unarmored Defense: Monks and barbarians, this is your time to shine! Channel your inner Jackie Chan and deflect those blows with nothing but your honed reflexes (and maybe a strategically placed elbow).
Shields: The Ultimate Accessory
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
- A trusty shield adds a flat +2 AC, making it a fantastic option for most characters. Just be sure you don't get so attached that you forget it's there and try to open a door with it. We've all been there.
Magical Enhancements: When Money Talks (or Enchants)
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- Potions and Spells: Feeling a little vulnerable? A quick swig of a Potion of Shielding or a well-timed Shield of Faith spell can make all the difference. Just remember, potions run out and concentration checks can be fickle things.
- Magic Items: The holy grail of AC boosting! From +1 armor to Rings of Protection, these bad boys can turn you into a walking fortress. The only caveat? They tend to cost a small fortune (or a well-executed heist).
Beyond the Basics: Taking Cover Like a Pro
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
- The Environment is Your Ally: Use those dungeon pillars for cover! Duck behind that conveniently placed overturned cart! Just remember, cover only goes so far, and a particularly enthusiastic goblin might decide to use you as a battering ram.
Remember, AC Isn't Everything!
- A Good Offense is the Best Defense: Sometimes, the best way to avoid getting hit is to make sure your enemies are too busy being pummeled to even think about attacking you.
- Don't Forget the Saving Throws: Even the most armored adventurer can be taken down by a well-placed fireball or a particularly nasty mindflayer. Don't neglect those saving throws!
In Conclusion:
With a little planning and a dash of ingenuity, you can turn yourself into a defensive powerhouse. So go forth, adventurers, and conquer those dungeons (or at least survive them)! Just remember, a little bit of luck never hurts either.
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