D&D 5E Multi-single-classing

[Sunseeker]

With the removal of prestige classes, or perhaps their integration into the core classes themselves, it presents an interesting situation that I have not seen an explicit answer for. By RAW the reading of the multiclass rules might be that in order to multi-class you must choose a completely new class. However, I do feel that certain classes "peter out" before max level, but other 'advanced classes' within them retain interesting options.

What are your thoughts on allowing multi-single classing? That is: lets say I am a fighter Eldritch Knight, level 14. I want to pick up some of the battlemaster maneuvers and don't want to use a feat for it, so I take fighter again. My highest level within the class is still 14, but when I hit level "3" of the "new" class, I now choose battlemaster, potentially being a level 14 Eldritch Knight/6 Battlemaster.

Given some of the very interesting options within the advanced classes, I find it somewhat disheartening that those options are completely denied to me by RAW. I can take an entirely different type of training. I can learn magic! The ways of the monk! Discover the harmony of nature....but apparently I can't learn more ways to hit things with a pointy metal stick.

Thoughts?

 

[SirAntoine]

Bring it home!

 

[Paraxis]

It is just one of those things that come with class based roleplaying games, there are systems that let you pick and choose abilities like savage worlds, gurps, and hero system are the first few to come to mind.

 

[Sunseeker]

It is just one of those things that come with class based roleplaying games, there are systems that let you pick and choose abilities like savage worlds, gurps, and hero system are the first few to come to mind.

The class system has it's benefits by presenting unified concepts.

That aside, the question is more largely aimed at if the RAW explicitly prohits intra-classing as opposed to inter-classing. Because I'm not sure. I think RAI it's "pick a different class" but the RAW doesn't forbid intra-classing.

 

[Paraxis]

Multiclassing allows you to gain levels in multiple classes. Doing so lets you mix the abilities of those classes to realize a character concept that might not be reflected in one of the standard class options. With this rule, you have the option of gaining a level in a new class whenever you advance in level, instead of gaining a level in your current class. - page 163 PHB.


Don't get me wrong I can see maybe working with a player and doing what you describe to help him flush out his concept, but I think rule is clear you can't multiclass into the same class.

 

[SirAntoine]

Maybe a subclass is considered a distinct class.

 

[Eejit]

Multiclassing allows you to gain levels in multiple classes. Doing so lets you mix the abilities of those classes to realize a character concept that might not be reflected in one of the standard class options. With this rule, you have the option of gaining a level in a new class whenever you advance in level, instead of gaining a level in your current class. - page 163 PHB.


Don't get me wrong I can see maybe working with a player and doing what you describe to help him flush out his concept, but I think rule is clear you can't multiclass into the same class.

Agreed. You would also potentially face balance issues as some sub-classes have very front-loaded features. In other cases it would be thematically rather problematic - how many Pacts is that Warlock making!? That Paladin has gotten himself into quite a pickle with those three Vows he's sworn.

 

[Leatherhead]

My first thought was this.

My second thought was ask one of the char-op forums to break it. I doubt it would be more favorable than traditional multiclassing in the long run, but there would undoubtedly be some crazy mid-game synergies.

 

[Sage Genesis]

RAW it's absolutely clear, to me, that it's not supposed to work like that.

But consider the following: if you were to homebrew a "Fightar" class which is the Battlemaster Fighter literally in all but name, the rules suddenly allow it again. Due to the way proficiency bonuses, hit dice, and stacking class benefits work, there's really nothing abusive that could come out of such a scenario. Nothing I can think of anyway.

Besides, is an [Eldritch Knight 14/Battlemaster 6] really that much crazier than a [Wizard 7/Other Warrior Type Class 7/Battlemaster 6]? (Talking about mechanical effectiveness here, not whether or not the character concept itself fits your world or other such irrelevant considerations.)


Isn't this the "rulings not rules" edition? Go for it, give it a spin. Worst case scenario you mess something up and report back on it so we can all learn why we shouldn't have done it.

 

[Kikuras]

I had this thought a few days ago and it amused me. My brother pointed out is wasn't RAW, so I packed up the thought for later when it's time to start pulling the threads of the system and have fun.