4th Edition Races Part 1

Race:

As part of this blog I will be reviewing some of the changes (for better or worse) from 3.5 to 4th edition. The first thing I notice is the races and the face lift some have gotten, as well as the introduction of some new ones. It is clear by the title of the Player's Handbook "Arcane, Divine, and Martial Heroes" that wizards of the coast intends for future players handbooks to be released featuring new classes, as well as potentially new races.

The first race feature in the players handbook is one of the new races, the Dragonborn. The Dragonborn are said to be creatures that value honor above any other virtue. They look like half-dragon have men, and appear to be a race meant to be Paladins. With their Strength and Charisma modifiers, the Dragonborn would surely be a powerful force. To further tilt the scales in their favor are their ability to use Dragon style breath weapons. They are very well rounded and a strong combat class race. The picture is a Dragonborn Warlord, straight from the Players handbook.

Next comes an old favorite, the Dwarf. Dwarves are much what you would expect from them. Gone is the old negative modifier system of stats and now, in addition to their constitution bonus, dwarves enjoy a wisdom bonus as well. Further granting them a strong standing in Clerical circles. Other than that, not much has changed for this stout race. Their racial abilities are what you might expect, having to do with unencumbered movement (albeit naturally slow), an iron stomach, and bonuses when they stand their ground. Solid as stone by virtue of heritage and by ability. In addition to Clerics, Dwarves make decent fighters, paladins, and warlords as well.

More to come soon...