D&D 5E Should player's assume if it's in the DMG then it's RAW?

[ExploderWizard]

Yes, for this edition in particular, absolutely. In fact, I am not even sure anyone should be arguing RAW for this edition anymore, with it's tremendous focus on rulings over rules. But yes, my players are not to touch the MM or the DMG.

I don't care who buys what books, but assuming something is true in the campaign just because it was in a book could have disastrous and (for me) hilarious consequences.

 

[Ahrimon]

IMO players have the right to read any book they choose. But they shouldn't assume that just because it's in a book that it's in the game or even if it is, that it works exactly like it does in the book. That said I am a bit of a rules lawyer in that I want consistency in the rules. A group should pre-agree on what PHB options are available, but the DMG options are more in the DMs prerogative and if they're decided after the fact that's ok as long as once it's decided it's not changed without a group discussion.