D&D 5E When do you think a character build concept reaches maturity?

[Yaarel]

See and, for me, I think takeoff really needs to occur by level 2 or 3, and if cruising altitude is higher than 6 we should consider that character concept to be "unsupported".

I agree, the ‘takeoff’ of the concept, must happen when I create character or at least as soon as possible.

The ‘cruising altitude’ of a preplanned ‘build’, can happen later.

I can tolerate a delay in power. But I lack tolerance for a delay in flavor.



For example, if I play an Eldritch Knight because the concept is a magical warrior, it is unacceptable to me to play two levels before there is even a hint of magical capability.

And this is the Eldritch Knight, that includes the fighting traditions of the High Elf, who were raised from birth in both magic and combat. (Hence, cantrip and cultural weapon proficiencies.) It doesnt even seem possible that an Elf Knight could lack magical combat abilities.

The flavor matters, and needs to be there, when the character is created. At least a nod toward the flavor.

One of the biggest problems with 3.X (and therefore 5e) D&D is that a lot of iconic AD&D archetypes, functional from first level, didn't even begin to come online until many, many sessions after the typical campaign had already ended. ... It's because of that pig-stupid 3e multiclass system that classes can't have all of their defining abilities up front.

You make a fair point. Multiclass dips interfere with upfront class designs.

At least have a hint of things to come, at level 1!

 

[DammitVictor]

You make a fair point. Multiclass dips interfere with upfront class designs.

At least have a hint of things to come, at level 1!

It is also a key difference between 2e's Kits and the Prestige Classes that many of them were converted into. PF's Archetypes are a small step in the right direction, but they're still subject to both "no dead levels" and the need to avoid frontloading.

 

[the Jester]

A simple poll: At what level should a character concept/build reach fruition or maturity?

I know many people might say, "It depends on the build," so I am asking you in a more general sense, considering the "average" level for different builds you have thought of or tried in game.

It really depends, less on the build, and more on the concept. Some have reached fruition by the time the pc starts play- "I am a dwarven father who adventures to provide for my children." Others won't reach fruition until epic levels, or never at all- "I want to become the Overgod of the Forgotten Realms" is unlikely to pan out ever. I really don't think there is an answer to this, at least in my experience.

 

[DND_Reborn]

It really depends, less on the build, and more on the concept. Some have reached fruition by the time the pc starts play- "I am a dwarven father who adventures to provide for my children." Others won't reach fruition until epic levels, or never at all- "I want to become the Overgod of the Forgotten Realms" is unlikely to pan out ever. I really don't think there is an answer to this, at least in my experience.

LOL fair enough... or you could just split the difference and say... around 10th level?

 

[the Jester]

LOL fair enough... or you could just split the difference and say... around 10th level?

I mean, you could, but that's not at all accurate to my perspective. This is a poll that needs an "Other- see my post" kind of answer.

 

[Adamant]

I play adventurer's league and have to start at level 1 with each character, so builds coming online late are just out of consideration for me. Tier 2 play is about where the sweet spot is for me, so I won't play anything that comes online later than a 2 level dip. An example of coming online a bit later than intended was one of my earlier characters, a rogue x/warlock 2, who didn't stop feeling underpowered until level 8-10. I didn't do another late bloomer until very recently, a fighter 2/bladesinger x, who really comes online at level 7 with haste but didn't feel weak earlier like my rogue did.

Concept wise, I hate having to wait to feel like my character is actually living up to his backstory and chosen path, which is another reason I tend to steer clear of multiclassing for the most part. Waiting for a fighter or rogue to get their archetype is frustrating, especially if I'm going eldritch knight or arcane trickster. Same with my gloom stalker ranger who is from the underdark(Imaskari human, was part of the aboveground city and was captured by drow while fleeing the downfall of said city) but can't see in the dark yet.

 

[TiwazTyrsfist]

I voted 3-4 & 5-6, because I think it's two things.
1. Level 3-4, Getting your subclass. I know some classes get theirs earlier, but at lvl 3 everyone finally has their subclass. If your build idea is Magic Swordsman, you aren't until you hit level 3 and become an Eldritch Knight.
2. 5-6 because I feel like a LOT of really important stuff unlocks at those levels.
2a. Most melee fighters get their second attack
2b. Most spell casters get their 3rd level spells (While 1st and 2nd level spells are ok, you're not REALLY spell casting till you can Fireball or revive the dead)
2c. Certain class and subclass specifics. Most classes get something pretty good at this point beyond 2a&2b.

 

[DND_Reborn]

I mean, you could, but that's not at all accurate to my perspective. This is a poll that needs an "Other- see my post" kind of answer.

I thought about it, but decided not to do it because it smacks of the "none of the above" type answer. If you don't feel the poll applies to you, then don't vote and no hard feelings at all. Regardless, your input is always appreciated and I can certainly understand your point of view.

 

[DND_Reborn]

So with over 50 voters (69 votes), the average is about 5.5, placing the poll firmly in the 5-6 level range.

I agree with others' assessment that for most builds, a ASI/feat at 4th and maybe a second archetype feature (typically acquired at 6th level) bring most builds into a point where they feel like the character has hit their stride. Also extra attack for battlers and third level spells for casters come (mostly) at 5th.

All those things combined really bring it to saying Tier II. Once most characters make tier II, they start to show their potential and a good idea of what is to come.

Once again, thanks to all for participating and providing input.

 

[Garthanos]

The question is really when SHOULD a character concept reach maturity.

For me, this means, the essential themes SHOULD be practicable at level 1.

I have that in 4e... but it looks like that is closer to around level 5 in 5e...