What are the Prerequisites for Feats in D&D? A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Feat Prerequisites
In the captivating world of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), feats represent exceptional talents, specialized training, and unique capabilities that go beyond the typical scope of a character’s class. However, these powerful abilities aren’t freely available. Most feats come with prerequisites, which are specific conditions that a character must meet before they can select or use the feat. These prerequisites ensure a level of balance and prevent characters from becoming overpowered too early in their adventuring career.
In essence, a feat’s prerequisites act as a gatekeeper, requiring a character to demonstrate certain abilities or achieve specific milestones before gaining access to its benefits. These prerequisites can include:
- Ability Scores: Many feats demand a minimum score in one or more ability scores such as Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma. For instance, a feat focused on heavy armor might require a Strength of 13 or higher.
- Class Features: Some feats require a character to possess a particular class feature. This could mean having levels in a specific class, such as a rogue’s Sneak Attack ability or a spellcaster’s spellcasting ability.
- Other Feats: Certain feats build upon existing abilities and require the character to have already acquired a different, foundational feat. This creates a tiered system where characters gradually unlock more powerful options.
- Skill Proficiencies: Some feats are contingent upon the character’s proficiency with specific skills. For example, a feat focused on perception might need the character to be proficient in Perception.
- Base Attack Bonus (BAB): In some D&D editions, a base attack bonus is a numeric value used for determining a character’s combat prowess. Some feats might need a minimum BAB to be selected. While not used in 5e, this was present in previous editions.
- Other Requirements: There may also be other conditions that need to be met that do not fit the categories above. These may be unique to specific feats and are generally detailed in the feat’s description.
Essentially, these prerequisites create a system of character progression that rewards specialization and strategic decision-making when choosing your character’s path. They add depth and complexity, ensuring each character feels unique and accomplished. Failing to meet a feat’s prerequisites means that you simply cannot select or benefit from it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do you get feats in D&D?
The most common way to obtain feats is by choosing them instead of an ability score improvement (ASI) at specific levels (typically 4th, 8th, 12th, 16th, and 19th) depending on class. Fighters gain more opportunities to obtain feats. Some DMs may allow feats through different means or more frequently, as it is an optional rule.
2. What levels do Fighters get feats?
Fighters are unique in that they gain ASIs at levels 4, 6, 8, 12, 14, 16, and 19. Therefore, they also can choose a feat in place of these, giving them a chance to have more feats than other classes.
3. How many feats can you have in total?
There’s no hard limit to the total number of feats a character can have. A pure fighter could potentially get up to seven feats by level 19, choosing them instead of ASIs, while other classes typically have the opportunity for five. However, since it is usually a choice between a feat and an ASI, the actual number of feats a character will have is often lower. This can be influenced by DM-granted feats or other special rules.
4. Can you get feats by multiclassing?
Yes, multiclassing can be used to gain more opportunities to gain feats, however, you will still be limited to the ASI-replacement system. You can also use feats to smooth out weaknesses that might come with multiclassing and customize your character.
5. Can the DM award feats?
Yes, the DM has the discretion to award feats at moments when they deem it would enhance the story or character development. This is not a written rule and varies between DMs, and should be balanced with the party.
6. Which feats are best for a fighter?
Some popular feats for fighters include: Great Weapon Master, Sentinel, Savage Attacker, Slasher, Dual Wielder, Gunner, and Knight of the Crown (and Squire of Solamnia) (depending on the setting). These feats cater to the fighter’s strengths in combat, improving attack power, defense, and battlefield control.
7. Do fighters get a feat every level?
No, fighters do not get a feat every level. The idea that they do is a misconception, possibly derived from an older version of D&D. They gain extra ASIs, which can be traded for feats, but that is not the same as gaining a feat every level.
8. Can a rogue get a feat?
Absolutely, rogues, like other classes, can gain feats by choosing them instead of ability score increases. The Fighting Initiate feat is one popular choice for rogues, as it allows them to pick a fighting style.
9. How many feats does a level 1 character get?
While some D&D editions had extra feats at level one, that is not usually the case in 5th edition. Typically, a level 1 character does not get any feats unless they come from their class or race. There are races and optional rules that may provide a feat at level 1.
10. Are feats based on character level?
Feats are acquired at specific character levels that grant an ability score improvement (4, 6, 8, 12, 14, 16, 19), and therefore, are tied to level to some extent, depending on the class. They are earned when a class offers an ability score increase. However, a level split from multi-classing can still allow you to get all the relevant ASIs (or their Feat replacement) at the appropriate levels, even if your level does not hit the target number for a single class.
11. Can you learn a feat through training?
Typically, you cannot learn a feat simply through training. The game’s written rules state that they are earned at specific level-ups when you choose to swap them for an ASI. However, DMs can make house rules and may allow you to earn them differently.
12. What race is best for a fighter?
Several races have great synergy with the fighter class. Some include: Aarakocra (for ranged fighters), Aasimar (especially fallen Aasimar), Bugbear, Centaur, Dragonborn (especially if fire is part of their focus), and Dwarves (for more traditional fighters). The best race often depends on the fighter’s build.
13. What is the best background for a fighter?
The soldier background is a great fit for fighters, granting proficiency in Athletics and Intimidation, reflecting their training. However, any background can be suitable, it just depends on how well it suits a character’s backstory.
14. Do feats carry over when polymorphed?
No, when polymorphed you lose all game statistics and features, including feats, and instead use the statistics of the beast you turn into. Feats are tied to your character, not the shape they are in.
15. Can you take two half-feats?
Yes, some DMs allow a rule where you can exchange one feat for two half-feats. However, these will typically not come with the ability score improvement bonus, and count as using two separate feat choices. This rule is not part of the standard rules but can be used to allow more flexibility for feat choices.