Unlocking New Skills: A Deep Dive into Multiclassing and Proficiencies in D&D
So, you’re thinking about multiclassing in Dungeons & Dragons? Excellent choice! It’s a fantastic way to customize your character and create a truly unique hero. But before you dive in, let’s tackle a crucial question: Do you gain skill proficiencies when you multiclass?
The short answer is: yes, but not as many as you’d get when starting a new character. You gain a limited subset of skill proficiencies when you multiclass into a new class, not the full set you would receive if you were starting the game with that class. The specific proficiencies you gain depend entirely on the class you are multiclassing into. It’s a trade-off for the flexibility and power that multiclassing provides.
Let’s break this down further, explore which classes grant skill proficiencies upon multiclassing, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Multiclassing: A Proficiency Primer
When you create your first character, you choose a class, and that class grants you a variety of proficiencies, including weapon proficiencies, armor proficiencies, saving throw proficiencies, and, of course, skill proficiencies. These proficiencies are a fundamental part of your character’s identity and capabilities.
Multiclassing allows you to add levels in a second (or even a third!) class to your character. This allows for incredible character customization and unique builds. However, multiclassing is not a free ride. You don’t get everything you would have received had you started the game as that class from level 1.
The key thing to remember is the Multiclassing Proficiencies table in the Player’s Handbook (around page 164) details exactly what you get when multiclassing into a new class. Not all classes grant additional skill proficiencies.
Which Classes Grant Skill Proficiencies When Multiclassing?
Of all classes, only a select few grant skill proficiencies when you multiclass into them. The classes that give skill proficiencies include Rogue, Ranger, and Bard. They grant the option to select one additional skill proficiency from a list of skills. This is a key consideration when planning your character’s development.
Rogue
Multiclassing into Rogue grants you one additional skill proficiency from the following list:
- Acrobatics
- Athletics
- Deception
- Insight
- Intimidation
- Investigation
- Perception
- Performance
- Persuasion
- Sleight of Hand
- Stealth
Ranger
Multiclassing into Ranger grants you one additional skill proficiency from the following list:
- Animal Handling
- Athletics
- Insight
- Investigation
- Nature
- Perception
- Stealth
- Survival
Bard
Multiclassing into Bard grants you one additional skill proficiency from the following list:
- Acrobatics
- Athletics
- Deception
- History
- Insight
- Intimidation
- Investigation
- Medicine
- Nature
- Perception
- Performance
- Persuasion
These are the only classes that give skill proficiencies when multiclassing, so choosing a class that does not give additional skill proficiencies requires you to think more about which skills you would be lacking, if any.
Why This Matters: Building Your Ideal Character
Understanding which classes grant additional skill proficiencies when multiclassing is critical for character optimization. If you are building a character who needs expertise in a wide range of skills, you may want to carefully consider your multiclass choices and which skill proficiencies to take when leveling up. You might consider Rogue, Ranger, or Bard for a dip to grab that extra proficiency.
Remember, proficiency bonus starts at +2 and improves as your character levels up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Multiclassing and Skill Proficiencies
Here are some common questions about the intricate relationship between multiclassing and skill proficiencies:
1. Do I get all the skill proficiencies of my second class?
No. When you multiclass, you only get a specific subset of proficiencies, if any at all, defined by the Multiclassing Proficiencies table in the Player’s Handbook. Classes that do not have skill proficiencies on the table will not give any.
2. Can I choose any skill proficiency when I multiclass into Rogue, Ranger, or Bard?
No. You are restricted to the list of skills provided for that specific class in the Player’s Handbook.
3. If I already have proficiency in a skill, can I choose it again when multiclassing?
No. You cannot gain the same skill proficiency twice. If you already have proficiency in all the skills offered by a class when you multiclass, you don’t gain any additional skill proficiencies from that multiclass.
4. Do I get expertise in skills when I multiclass?
Expertise is a specific class feature (often found in Rogue and Bard) that allows you to double your proficiency bonus for certain skills. You only gain expertise when you take levels in a class that provides that feature. The Games Learning Society explores similar mechanics in depth, showcasing how game rules can be utilized in educational contexts. You will still be proficient if multiclassing gives you the option to gain a skill, but Expertise can only be gained through the classes and subclasses that provide it.
5. Does the order in which I multiclass matter for skill proficiencies?
Yes and no. The order matters in the sense that you gain the full complement of skill proficiencies for your first class. After that, you only get the limited proficiencies granted by multiclassing rules. So, plan accordingly!
6. What if I multiclass into a class that doesn’t grant any skill proficiencies?
Then you don’t gain any additional skill proficiencies. You only gain the proficiencies listed in the Multiclassing Proficiencies table. The GamesLearningSociety.org provides some insight into game mechanics.
7. Can I use a feat to gain more skill proficiencies?
Yes! Feats like “Skill Expert” or “Prodigy” can grant you additional skill proficiencies and even expertise, regardless of your class. This is an excellent way to supplement your skills beyond what you get from classes.
8. How do racial traits interact with multiclassing skill proficiencies?
Racial traits that grant skill proficiencies are separate from class proficiencies. You gain racial skill proficiencies regardless of your class or multiclass choices. You could even gain Expertise in a skill through your race!
9. Can I swap skill proficiencies when I multiclass?
No. You cannot swap out existing skill proficiencies for new ones. You only add proficiencies when granted by the multiclassing rules, feats, or racial traits.
10. Do skill proficiencies stack from different classes?
No, you cannot gain proficiency in the same skill more than once. You cannot stack multiple proficiency bonuses as it is added to things you are good in, not gained through being good at stuff.
11. What are some good multiclass combinations for maximizing skill proficiencies?
Rogue/Ranger, Rogue/Bard, or Ranger/Bard are all good options if you want a wide range of skill proficiencies. Starting as a Rogue is often recommended due to the number of skills granted at level 1.
12. Can I multiclass into the same class multiple times?
No, you cannot multiclass into the same class more than once. This rule prevents you from repeatedly gaining the benefits of a single class.
13. Does multiclassing affect my spellcasting ability for skills like Arcana or Nature?
Your overall character level determines your proficiency bonus, which affects all your skill checks, including those related to spellcasting. Multiclassing also impacts your spell slots.
14. If I have disadvantage on skill checks due to armor I’m not proficient in, does multiclassing help?
Multiclassing can help by giving you proficiency in the armor you wear, eliminating the disadvantage. Armor proficiency is crucial.
15. How do I track my skill proficiencies when multiclassing?
Keep a clear record of all your proficiencies (skills, weapons, armor, saving throws) on your character sheet. Double-check the Player’s Handbook and any other relevant sourcebooks to ensure you’re following the rules correctly. It’s essential to use a character sheet or tool that assists with the complex math of multiclassing.
Mastering the Art of Multiclassing
Multiclassing is a powerful tool that requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the rules. By knowing which classes grant skill proficiencies and how those proficiencies interact with other character features, you can create a truly formidable and versatile adventurer. Remember to consult the Player’s Handbook and any other relevant sourcebooks for the definitive rules.
Good luck, and happy adventuring!