Best High-Strength, High-Constitution Elf Classes

what class should my elf be high strength and constitution

When creating a high-strength and high-constitution elf character, there are several classes that are well-suited to take advantage of these attributes. One option is the Barbarian, a classic choice for a high-strength build. The Fighter class is also flexible and can utilize both strength and dexterity effectively, making it a viable option. For a more magical playstyle, the Artificer class pairs well with the High Elf subrace, adding both dexterity and intelligence to your arsenal. Additionally, the Monk class is a good fit for the Wood Elf subrace, as it emphasizes dexterity and wisdom. If you're seeking a charismatic elf, the Paladin class synergizes well with the half-elf race's ability score increases, making them excellent faces for social interactions. Lastly, for a challenging yet rewarding path, the Cleric class can be a viable option for elves, especially those with wisdom increases like the Wood Elf and Pallid Elf subraces.

Characteristics Values
Strength Warriors
Dexterity Magic item artisanry and craftsmanship, Sword and spear
Constitution Long lifespans, source of healing, disease resistance, and toughness
Intelligence Mastery of at least the basics of magic
Wisdom Prophets, oracles, discerners of real motives, enforcement of poetic justice, advisors
Charisma Charm, artistic style, innate magic

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Barbarian

The Great Weapon path is the classic Barbarian, dealing high damage with weapons like the Greataxe. Two-Weapon Fighting involves using a shield and a weapon in your off-hand, which benefits from a level dip in Fighter. Dex-based Barbarians are also an option, with the Shadar-kai Elf being a good choice for this build.

As an Elf Barbarian, you can choose from various subclasses, such as the Path of the Berserker, driven by pure rage, or the Path of the Totem Warrior, which suits elves' connection to nature. You can also choose backgrounds like Outlander, Sailor, or Soldier.

Remember that Barbarians are not always the stereotypical quiet and serious characters. You can roleplay your Elf Barbarian however you like, whether that's silly, motherly, or raucous. So, if you want to play a heavy-hitter who loves being in the middle of the battle, the Barbarian class is an excellent choice.

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Fighter

If you want to play a high-Strength and Constitution Elf Fighter, you can use various Maneuvers to corner a target. You can also switch between ranged and melee attacks, and a high initiative for a tank is beneficial.

For a classic fighter feel, consider the Variant Human (human fighters are the most popular character and have been for several editions). For a durable fighter, consider the Dwarf, the Goliath, or the Orc. For a high-damage melee fighter, consider the Centaur or the Minotaur.

If you're looking to play a High Elf Fighter, you can utilise a morningstar, hand-axes, and a shield. The Booming Blade cantrip can be useful for deterring enemies from going after your spellcasters and archers, keeping them focused on you.

One user recommends leaving Strength at 13 and instead focusing on being a Dexterity fighter, with 17 Dex and picking up a +1 Dexterity feat at level 4. Alternatively, you can leave Dex at 16 and start with 15 Constitution, then increase it at level 4.

Another option is to dump Strength and just use medium armour. With the Medium Armour Master feat, you can have +3 AC from Dexterity, meaning Half Plate gives you as much AC as full Plate, and you can even stealth around.

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Paladin

Strength is essential for any melee-focused character, improving attack and damage rolls. Charisma, meanwhile, fuels a Paladin's spellcasting abilities, enhancing their spell attacks and damage rolls. It also aids in social interactions, providing an edge in skills like Persuasion, Performance, Deception, and Intimidation. Constitution is no less important, helping the character build a strong pool of hit points to withstand attacks on the frontline.

For an Elf Paladin, you start with a maximum bonus of +2 to your primary stats (Strength, Constitution, and Charisma). While this makes you slightly less effective in combat than a more optimised Paladin, it is still a viable option. To compensate, you should focus on improving your Strength as soon as possible.

Elves also receive a bonus to Dexterity, which pairs well with light or medium armour and a rapier. High Elves, in particular, gain a cantrip, which Paladins typically lack. With their low Intelligence, non-combat cantrips like Mending or Mold Earth are good choices.

If you're looking for a more unconventional option, consider the Eladrin Elf. They can innately cast Misty Step with the Fey Step feature, which can be useful for teleporting out of dangerous situations.

In terms of Oath and background, you could play a High Elf Oath of the Ancients Paladin living among aristocrats but not of them. Alternatively, you could embrace the scout concept, forgoing heavy armour and a traditional weapon in favour of a rapier and a task force role dedicated to finding evil rather than killing it.

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Cleric

Elf Cleric

While it is possible to play an Elf Cleric, it may be challenging due to the lack of a Wisdom bonus. However, with the right ability score increases, you can still build a formidable Elf Cleric.

Ability Scores

The Elf race inherently increases your Dexterity score by 2. This increase in Dexterity can be beneficial for a Cleric, especially if you plan on wearing light armour or using ranged weapons. Additionally, the Wood Elf and Pallid Elf subraces provide a Wisdom increase, which is crucial for Clerics as it enhances their spellcasting abilities. If you opt for the Mark of Detection variant race, you gain a +2 WIS boost, which can further enhance your spellcasting capabilities. Alternatively, you could aim for an 18 Wisdom score by combining a base score of 15 with a +2 bonus from another source and a +1 bonus from ability score improvements.

Spellcasting

As an Elf Cleric, you may find yourself at a slight disadvantage compared to other Cleric races due to the lack of a Wisdom bonus. However, you can compensate for this by focusing on your Dexterity and utilising your innate spellcasting abilities. The Elf race's proficiency in Perception can also complement your Cleric's abilities, enhancing your awareness and detection skills.

Subrace Options

When creating an Elf Cleric, consider the Wood Elf or Pallid Elf subraces to boost your Wisdom score. Alternatively, the Mark of Detection variant race offers a significant +2 WIS boost and additional spells like Detect Thoughts, See Invisibility, and Clairvoyance, enhancing your Cleric's spellcasting repertoire.

Multiclassing Options

If you're seeking to maximise your Cleric's potential, consider multiclassing. Combining your Elf Cleric with levels in another class, such as Fighter or Rogue, can provide you with additional skills, weapons, and combat options. For example, the Fighter class can grant proficiency with a variety of weapons, including bows and rapiers, while the Rogue class offers the trademark sneak attack in battle.

In conclusion, while an Elf Cleric may not be the most optimal combination, it is certainly a viable and interesting option. By utilising the right subrace choices, ability score increases, and potentially multiclassing, you can create a unique and powerful Elf Cleric character.

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Monk

Dexterity is the primary ability score for a Monk, with Wisdom and Constitution following closely behind. Strength, Intelligence, and Charisma are less important for this class.

If you're looking to play a high-strength and high-constitution Elf Monk, here are some things to consider:

Firstly, the Elf race is a strong choice for a Monk due to their ability score bonuses and proficiency in perception, which aid in combat awareness. The standard Elf race grants a +2 bonus to Dexterity, which aligns with the Monk's primary ability score.

When it comes to subraces, the Wood Elf is a popular choice for Monk players. Wood Elves offer a +1 bonus to Wisdom, an additional 5 feet to their base walking speed, and the ability to hide more effectively in natural environments. This increased movement speed and stealth capability synergize well with the Monk's hit-and-run tactics and agility.

Another subrace option is the Sea Elf, which provides extra Constitution for resilience and a second mobility option. The Monk's speed increases apply to all movement modes, enhancing their already impressive mobility.

While the Dark Elf (Drow) subrace offers a longer Darkvision range, their Sunlight Sensitivity can be a drawback. However, the Way of Shadow subclass can mitigate this, as it includes features like Step of the Wind and Shadow Step, which aid in avoiding damage and enhance stealth capabilities.

Additionally, consider the Way of the Kensei subclass, which synergizes well with the Elf race. The Way of the Kensei is about mastering a small handful of weapons, and the Elf race is strongly associated with longbow mastery. The subclass includes longbow proficiency, playing into the strengths of the Elf archetype.

In terms of ability score distribution, prioritize Dexterity as your highest stat, followed by Wisdom and Constitution. Strength can be useful due to the Monk's proficiency in Strength saving throws, but it is not as crucial as the other three scores.

Remember, while optimization is important, the beauty of D&D character creation is that you can build your character however you like. Feel free to make choices that align with your vision for your Elf Monk!

Frequently asked questions

You could make a solid Tank Barbarian. Alternatively, Fighter is an option, as is Paladin.

The Fighter class only needs an increase in either Strength or Dexterity, so a high-strength elf would work well.

The Sea Elf and the Shadar-kai are good options as they are the only elf subraces that get increases to Constitution.

Wizard, Arcane Trickster, and Dex-focused Eldritch Knight are all good options for a high-intelligence elf. The High Elf also makes a perfect Artificer.

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