Introduction

As you venture into the fantastical world of Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) 5th Edition, one of the most crucial aspects of gameplay is understanding the mechanisms of combat and defense. An essential element of this is calculating your character’s Armor Class (AC). AC serves as a representation of how difficult it is to land a hit on your character, making it an indispensable part of the game. This article will guide you through the process of calculating Armor Class in D&D 5e.

Step 1: Determine Your Base AC

The starting point for calculating your AC is determining your character’s base Armor Class. The base AC depends on the type of armor equipped or your character’s unarmored state:

1. No armor (unarmored): Base AC = 10

2. Light Armor: Base AC = armor’s base value + Dexterity modifier

3. Medium Armor: Base AC = armor’s base value + Dexterity modifier (maximum of +2)

4. Heavy Armor: Base AC = armor’s base value (no Dexterity modifier applies)

It is important to note that some character classes like monks and barbarians have unique unarmored abilities which change their base AC calculation.

Step 2: Add Your Shield Bonus

If your character is using a shield, it provides a bonus to your AC. A standard shield grants a +2 bonus to your Armor Class. However, some unique shields or homebrew items might provide different bonuses.

Step 3: Consider Class Abilities and Features

Some classes have abilities or features that can increase or modify their Armor Class:

1. Monk’s Unarmored Defense: When not wearing armor, a monk’s AC = 10 + Dexterity modifier + Wisdom modifier.

2. Barbarian’s Unarmored Defense: When not wearing armor, a barbarian’s AC = 10 + Dexterity modifier + Constitution modifier.

3. Fighter’s Fighting Style – Defense: When wearing armor, a fighter with the Defense Fighting Style gains a +1 bonus to AC.

4. Mage Armor Spell: This spell grants the target an AC of 13 + Dexterity modifier if they are not wearing armor.

There might be other class features or racial traits that affect AC, so always explore your character’s options and abilities.

Step 4: Calculate Bonuses from Magic Items or Spells

Some magic items and spells can provide temporary or permanent bonuses to your Armor Class. A few examples include:

1. Ring of Protection: Grants the wearer a +1 bonus to AC (requires attunement).

2. Bracers of Defense: Grants the wearer a +2 bonus to AC when not wearing armor (requires attunement).

Make sure to add these bonuses to your overall Armor Class accordingly.

Step 5: Tallying It All Up

Once you have considered all factors, add them together to calculate your character’s total Armor Class:

AC = Base AC (as per armor type or unarmored calculation) + Shield Bonus + Class Abilities/Features + Magic Items/Spells

Conclusion

With a proper understanding of the elements that contribute to calculating Armor Class in D&D 5e, you’ll be more prepared to face whatever challenges come your way in the game. Keep track of changes in your equipment or abilities that might impact your AC and always stay aware of the threats lurking around every corner. Happy adventuring!