Every D&D 5e Campaign Book, Ranked
Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e) has brought us numerous campaign books that have enriched the tabletop experience with diverse settings, thrilling adventures, and intricate plots. For both Dungeon Masters (DMs) and players, these campaign books serve as a backbone for their fantastical journeys. In this article, we’ll dive into Every D&D 5e Campaign Book, Ranked, exploring what makes each one unique and why they stand out (or fall short) in the vast library of D&D adventures.
Curse of Strahd
At the pinnacle of Every D&D 5e Campaign Book, Ranked, Curse of Strahd reigns supreme. This gothic horror campaign transports players to the eerie land of Barovia, ruled by the enigmatic vampire lord Strahd von Zarovich. The blend of horror elements, rich narrative, and challenging encounters creates an immersive experience. Strahd’s multifaceted character and the dynamic storyline ensure that every playthrough is distinct, keeping players on edge with its chilling atmosphere and unpredictable twists.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist takes the second spot, offering a vibrant urban adventure set in the bustling city of Waterdeep. This campaign stands out for its emphasis on intrigue and investigation over combat. Players navigate a web of politics, crime, and mystery as they search for a hidden treasure. The seasonal villains and multiple paths to the finale add replayability, while the richly detailed cityscape provides a perfect backdrop for urban adventures.
Tomb of Annihilation
Third in our ranking is Tomb of Annihilation, a campaign that combines exploration, survival, and classic dungeon-crawling. Set in the deadly jungles of Chult, players must thwart a death curse that threatens the world. The campaign’s mix of wilderness survival, diverse ecosystems, and the infamous Tomb of the Nine Gods dungeon makes for a thrilling and varied experience. Its homage to old-school D&D, coupled with modern storytelling, creates a challenging yet rewarding campaign.
Storm King’s Thunder
Storm King’s Thunder earns its place as a top-tier campaign by offering a sweeping epic that spans the Sword Coast and beyond. The adventure’s focus on giants wreaking havoc provides a grand scale conflict that feels both urgent and monumental. The vast open-world nature allows for plenty of player agency, with numerous side quests and a non-linear storyline. This flexibility ensures each group’s journey through the campaign is unique.
Out of the Abyss
Delving into the Underdark, Out of the Abyss presents a harrowing journey through one of the most dangerous realms in D&D. The campaign’s dark tone, mind-bending madness, and encounters with demonic forces make it a standout. The survival horror elements are intensified by the oppressive and alien environment of the Underdark. This campaign excels in creating a sense of dread and urgency as players strive to escape the nightmarish landscape.
Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus
Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus propels players from the iconic city of Baldur’s Gate straight into the first layer of Hell. This descent into infernal realms offers a gritty and morally complex storyline, where players must navigate deals with devils and confront their darkest fears. The juxtaposition of urban adventure and hellish warfare provides a diverse range of challenges and storytelling opportunities.
Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Bringing nautical adventures to the forefront, Ghosts of Saltmarsh combines classic module adaptations with a cohesive narrative. This seafaring campaign offers rich opportunities for exploration, piracy, and maritime combat. The interconnected tales provide flexibility, allowing DMs to tailor the experience to their group’s preferences. The maritime setting is a refreshing change of pace, filled with mysterious islands, treacherous waters, and hidden treasures.
Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden
Set in the frigid expanse of Icewind Dale, Rime of the Frostmaiden challenges players with harsh environments and chilling mysteries. The campaign’s non-linear structure and sandbox elements provide a high degree of freedom. The central mystery of the Frostmaiden’s eternal winter creates a compelling narrative drive. This campaign excels in environmental storytelling and atmospheric tension, immersing players in its icy grasp.
Princes of the Apocalypse
Princes of the Apocalypse brings elemental evil to the forefront, offering a classic dungeon-crawling experience with a modern twist. The campaign’s modular design allows for flexible integration into existing campaigns or as a standalone adventure. While the story may not be as intricate as others, the diverse elemental temples and cults provide varied challenges and settings. Its straightforward structure makes it accessible for newer DMs and players.
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight
A whimsical and enchanting departure from typical D&D fare, The Wild Beyond the Witchlight transports players to the Feywild. This campaign emphasizes role-playing, puzzles, and exploration over combat. Its fairytale-like atmosphere and rich, imaginative settings make it a unique experience. While its lighter tone might not appeal to everyone, it offers a refreshing change and plenty of creative storytelling opportunities.
Conclusion
In reviewing Every D&D 5e Campaign Book, Ranked, it’s clear that each offers unique experiences catering to different play styles and preferences. From the horror-laden streets of Barovia to the icy tundra of Icewind Dale, these campaigns provide endless adventures and memories for D&D enthusiasts. Whether you prefer gothic horror, urban intrigue, or epic battles, there’s a D&D 5e campaign book tailored for your next adventure.