Half Dragon Template 5e Character Build Guide

The allure of being a half-dragon, a being of mixed heritage, combining the majesty of dragons with the versatility of other races. In Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, creating a half-dragon character can be a thrilling experience, allowing players to tap into the awe-inspiring abilities of these legendary creatures. This guide will walk you through the process of building a half-dragon character, exploring the rules, benefits, and playstyles associated with this unique heritage.

Understanding Half-Dragons

In the world of D&D, half-dragons are the offspring of a dragon and another creature, often a humanoid race like humans, elves, or dwarves. This mixed heritage grants them access to a combination of traits and abilities from both parents, making them formidable adventurers. The Player's Handbook doesn't explicitly cover half-dragons as a playable race, but we can use various rules and homebrew options to create a balanced and exciting character build.

Choosing a Dragon Heritage

When building a half-dragon character, selecting the right dragon heritage is crucial. Different dragons offer unique abilities, damage resistances, and characteristics that will shape your character's playstyle. Here are some popular dragon heritages and their associated traits:

Black Dragon: Acid resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Charisma checks.
Blue Dragon: Lightning resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Intelligence checks.
Brass Dragon: Fire resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Charisma checks.
Bronze Dragon: Lightning resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Intelligence checks.
Copper Dragon: Acid resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Charisma checks.
Gold Dragon: Fire resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Wisdom checks.
Green Dragon: Poison resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Dexterity checks.
Red Dragon: Fire resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Strength checks.
Silver Dragon: Cold resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Wisdom checks.
White Dragon: Cold resistance, darkvision, and a +1 bonus to Strength checks.

Half-Dragon Character Build Options

Now that we've explored the different dragon heritages, let's dive into the character build options. To create a balanced half-dragon character, we'll use a combination of official rules and homebrew elements.

Ability Scores: As a half-dragon, your character will inherit some of the dragon's physical and mental abilities. You can use the "point-buy" system to allocate ability scores, focusing on the traits that match your chosen dragon heritage.
Skills: Half-dragons often possess a keen sense of awareness, making them proficient in Perception and Insight. You can also choose skills that match your character's background and personality.
Equipment: As a half-dragon, your character may have access to unique equipment, such as dragon-scale armor or a draconic focus. You can also choose standard equipment that fits your character's class and playstyle.
Features and Traits: Depending on your chosen dragon heritage, you may gain access to various features and traits, such as resistance to certain types of damage, darkvision, or the ability to speak Draconic.

Half-Dragon Classes

When choosing a class for your half-dragon character, consider the following options:

Barbarian: A great fit for half-dragons with a strong connection to their dragon heritage, barbarians can tap into their draconic fury to unleash devastating attacks.
Fighter: A versatile class that allows half-dragons to excel in combat, fighters can use their martial prowess to take down foes and protect allies.
Rogue: For half-dragons with a sneaky or cunning nature, rogues can use their agility and stealth to outmaneuver enemies and strike from the shadows.
Sorcerer: As a spellcaster, sorcerers can tap into their draconic heritage to wield powerful magic, summoning fireballs, lightning bolts, or other elemental forces.

Half-Dragon Character Build Examples

Here are a few examples of half-dragon character builds:

Kaelith Sunshadow: A half-copper dragon rogue with a stealthy nature and a talent for finding hidden treasures.
Tharagon Blackwood: A half-black dragon barbarian who channels his draconic fury to take down enemies and protect his allies.
Eira Shadowglow: A half-brass dragon sorcerer who wields fire magic to scorch her foes and light the way for her companions.

Half-Dragon Roleplaying Tips

As a half-dragon character, you'll want to embody the spirit of your draconic heritage while also embracing your unique personality and background. Here are some roleplaying tips to help you bring your half-dragon character to life:

Emphasize your draconic traits: As a half-dragon, you'll have access to unique abilities and characteristics that set you apart from other characters. Emphasize these traits in your roleplaying, using your dragon heritage to inform your decisions and actions.
Balance dragon and humanoid aspects: While your draconic heritage is a key part of your character, don't forget to balance it with your humanoid aspects. Explore the tensions and contradictions between your two heritages, and use them to create a rich and nuanced character.
Develop a compelling backstory: Every character has a story to tell, and half-dragons are no exception. Develop a compelling backstory that explains how you came to be, what drives you, and what you hope to achieve in the world of D&D.

Half-Dragon Character Build Gallery

Conclusion: Embracing Your Half-Dragon Heritage

Building a half-dragon character is a thrilling experience, offering a unique blend of dragon and humanoid traits. By embracing your draconic heritage and balancing it with your humanoid aspects, you can create a rich and nuanced character that excels in the world of D&D. Remember to emphasize your draconic traits, develop a compelling backstory, and roleplay your character with confidence and flair. Happy adventuring!