Select Language:
The Reanimator artificer subclass in Dungeons & Dragons is inspired by horror themes, making it ideal for characters with dark and eerie concepts. By choosing this subclass, you embody a figure reminiscent of Dr. Frankenstein, pushing the boundaries of nature through necromantic practices.
This subclass not only embraces a chilling theme but also offers unique gameplay opportunities, making it suitable for various types of adventures in Dungeons & Dragons. Here’s how to create your very own reanimator artificer for your gaming table.
Reanimator Artificer Overview
The Reanimator artificer specializes in bringing back the dead and utilizing necromancy. In some ways, they act as a support class.
Here’s an overview of the key abilities for the Reanimator artificer, sorted by level.
Note that the Reanimator artificer is part of Unearthed Arcana, so be sure to check with your Dungeon Master before choosing this subclass.
Best Ability Scores For A Reanimator Artificer
When creating your artificer, Intelligence should be your primary ability score. Here’s a recommended breakdown:
Ability Score | Details |
---|---|
Intelligence |
Your spell attack modifier and spell save DC depend on Intelligence, so make it your highest stat. |
Dexterity |
Since artificers benefit from tools like Tinker’s and Thieves’ Tools, it’s a good idea to make Dexterity your second-highest stat. |
Constitution |
Place a decent score in Constitution to increase your hit points, as artificers are not particularly fragile. |
Wisdom |
A medium-level Wisdom score can be beneficial for resisting magical effects that could remove you from combat. |
Charisma |
If your character concept calls for it, a decent Charisma score can help, but it’s not essential. You can place a lower score here. |
Strength |
As fighting skills are not crucial for artificers, you can afford to assign your lowest score to Strength. |
Best Species For A Reanimator Artificer
With ability score improvements tied to backgrounds, there’s a fair amount of flexibility when selecting a species for your artificer.
Species | Details |
---|---|
Gnome |
Gnomes receive bonuses on Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws. They also have innate spellcasting, making them a natural fit for artificers. |
Aasimar |
Aasimar’s healing abilities complement the Reanimator’s role, and you can enhance your character concept by adding the Necrotic Shroud ability. |
Halfling |
Halflings are also strong candidates due to their Lucky trait and stealth skills, which are beneficial in various situations. |
Consult your DM about using lineages from Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft instead of traditional species, as they can add depth to your character in this subclass.
Best Backgrounds For A Reanimator Artificer
Similar to species, there is also flexibility with backgrounds for reanimator artificers, but some backgrounds may be more advantageous than others.
Background | Details |
---|---|
Criminal |
The criminal background is particularly suited to this subclass because of its ability score bonuses in Dexterity, Constitution, and Intelligence, all important for artificers. |
Sage |
The sage background is also beneficial due to its bonuses in Intelligence and Constitution as well as providing additional spells that enhance your abilities early on. |