Can Bards Learn Extra Spells? A Comprehensive Guide
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The short answer is yes, bards can learn extra spells beyond what’s listed in their class table, but it’s not as straightforward as a wizard or cleric. While bards are known for their versatility and magical prowess, they are “spells known” casters, meaning they learn a specific number of spells and can’t freely swap them out daily. However, several avenues allow bards to expand their spell repertoire, making them even more adaptable and potent. Let’s delve into the specifics of how bards learn spells and explore the ways they can acquire those coveted extras.
How Bards Normally Learn Spells
The Bardic Spell List and Leveling Up
Bards begin their journey knowing a limited number of spells and cantrips. As they level up, they learn new bard spells, as indicated on the bard class table. These spells must be of a level for which they have spell slots. For instance, a 1st-level bard knows four 1st-level spells from the bard spell list. With each subsequent level, they learn one new spell, with a few exceptions at levels 12th, 16th, 19th, and 20th where they don’t learn a new spell at that specific level. This is the most consistent way a bard expands their magical arsenal.
Spells Known Casters
Unlike wizards or clerics who prepare their spells from a larger list each day, bards are spells known casters. This means that once a bard learns a spell, it’s part of their repertoire, and they can’t swap it out on a long rest like some other classes. This approach is similar to sorcerers and warlocks, focusing on a curated list of spells. The key difference for bards is their ability to swap spells on level up and their access to a powerful feature called Magical Secrets.
Unlocking Extra Spells
While their initial spell acquisition is limited to their class table, bards aren’t entirely bound by it. There are several methods for bards to get more spells.
Magical Secrets
The most significant way bards get extra spells is through their Magical Secrets feature. At 10th level, and again at 14th and 18th level, bards gain the ability to learn spells from any class’s spell list. These chosen spells count as bard spells and are included in the total number of spells known listed on the Bard table. This feature is what allows bards to access spells typically outside of their class. It’s a cornerstone of the bard’s versatility, allowing them to gain access to potent spells like Counterspell, Fireball, or Healing Word, depending on their party’s needs.
Bonus Spells from High Charisma (Variant Rule)
While not a core rule, some DMs might implement a variant rule where a high Charisma score grants bonus spells. This rule often requires an exceptionally high Charisma stat to see significant benefits. However, the specific implementation and number of spells granted are entirely at the DM’s discretion, and it’s not a guaranteed method to obtain extra spells in all games.
Feats
Certain feats, while not a direct route for learning additional spells, may provide spells. Magic Initiate is a feat that allows a character to learn two cantrips and one 1st level spell from a different class’s spell list and use their spell casting ability modifier for it. This can help broaden a bards magical ability.
Runestones of Power and Arcane Bond Items
Some magic items, like Runestones of Power, grant the ability to cast one extra spell per day. Similarly, an arcane bond item obtained through an archetype or the Eldritch Heritage feat might provide an additional daily spell. These items do not add a spell to the “spells known” column but rather provide additional castings per day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 FAQs to help you further understand how bards learn extra spells:
1. How many spells does a level 1 bard know?
At level 1, bards know two cantrips and four 1st-level spells from the bard spell list.
2. Do bards learn new spells every level?
Bards learn a new spell from the bard spell list at each level except 12th, 16th, 19th, and 20th. They will, however, gain new spell slots, which do allow more of their spells to be cast.
3. Can bards switch out spells?
Yes, bards can switch out one spell they know whenever they gain a level. The new spell must be a spell of a level they can cast. This flexibility allows them to adapt their spell list over time.
4. Can bards learn spells from other classes?
Yes, through their Magical Secrets feature, bards can learn spells from any class’s spell list. This feature becomes available at 10th level and then again at 14th and 18th levels.
5. Do Magical Secrets spells count towards the bard’s total spells known?
Yes, spells learned through Magical Secrets count towards the total number of spells the bard knows as per their class table.
6. Do bards get bonus spells from high Charisma?
In some games, DMs might use a variant rule where high Charisma grants bonus spells. This is not a standard rule and it is up to the DMs discretion.
7. Can a bard have a low Charisma?
Yes, bards can have low Charisma, though it’s their primary casting stat. A low Charisma bard might be portrayed as someone who strives to create music despite their lack of natural talent.
8. Can bards change their cantrips?
No, by default, bards cannot swap out cantrips unless a specific subclass feature or feat allows it.
9. What happens at 20th level?
At 20th level, a bard regains one use of Bardic Inspiration upon rolling initiative with no uses left. They can also cause Bardic Inspiration or Song of Rest die to be re-rolled and use either outcome.
10. Can bards learn the Fly spell?
Yes, bards can learn Fly through their Magical Secrets feature at higher levels, even though it’s not on their standard spell list.
11. Can bards use any spells?
Through Magical Secrets, bards can eventually access spells from other classes, but they remain bound by the spell slots on their chart.
12. Do bards get “slow” spells?
Bards have some spells which can slow opponents, like Slow. Bards also can use items, like the Horn of Shadows, for slowing enemies.
13. What is the best armor for bards?
Bards are typically proficient in light and medium armor. Cloth and leather are the most common. Heavy armor impedes their ability to cast.
14. Are bards a good class for beginners?
Bards are a versatile and powerful class but may be better for players with some experience in D&D. Their “spells known” mechanic and varied skill set can be challenging for true beginners.
15. What’s the best subclass for bards?
The College of Eloquence and the College of Creation are considered powerful subclasses, each offering distinct advantages and playstyles.
Conclusion
Bards, despite being spells-known casters, have avenues to expand their spell list beyond the basic progression. Through Magical Secrets, and occasionally variant rules, they can become incredibly flexible and powerful magic users. This adaptability is a key part of their unique identity in the world of D&D. Understanding how a bard gains spells is fundamental to harnessing their full potential and becoming the legendary lorekeeper they are meant to be.