Dungeons & Dragons has been enchanting adventurers for decades, and the 5th edition (5e) has introduced a plethora of campaign books that offer endless hours of immersive gameplay. From the dark dungeons of the Underdark to the celestial expanses of the multiverse, every D&D 5e campaign book, ranked here, brings unique narratives and challenges to the table. Let’s delve into these fantastic realms and see which ones stand out the most.
1. Curse of Strahd
Topping our list is the gothic horror masterpiece, Curse of Strahd. Set in the haunted land of Barovia, this campaign book offers a gripping narrative that revolves around the vampire lord, Strahd von Zarovich. The atmosphere is steeped in suspense and dread, with intricate plots and memorable NPCs. The replayability is high, thanks to the Tarot card-based fortune-telling mechanic that changes the story’s progression.
2. Tomb of Annihilation
Coming in strong, Tomb of Annihilation is a harrowing journey into the deadly jungles of Chult. Players must stop the Soulmonger, a device causing a death curse that threatens all life. The campaign combines exploration, survival, and a dungeon crawl through the infamous Tomb of the Nine Gods. It’s a test of wit and endurance, with a rich tapestry of lore and challenging encounters.
3. Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
A refreshing change from the typical dungeon crawl, Waterdeep: Dragon Heist focuses on urban intrigue within the city of splendors, Waterdeep. The campaign offers multiple villains, ensuring varied playthroughs. Players engage in political machinations, heists, and uncovering hidden treasures. Its city-based setting allows for intricate social dynamics and a vibrant urban landscape.
4. Out of the Abyss
Out of the Abyss plunges adventurers into the treacherous Underdark, a realm of perpetual darkness filled with madness and monstrosities. The campaign begins with players escaping from drow captivity and evolves into a quest to thwart the demonic invasion of the surface world. It’s a dark and gritty adventure that tests the mettle of any adventuring party.
5. Storm King’s Thunder
Epic in scale, Storm King’s Thunder has players traversing the vast lands of the Sword Coast and beyond to quell the giant uprising. The narrative is expansive, with numerous side quests and locations to explore. It’s a grand tale of power struggles among giant lords, with players caught in the middle, tasked with restoring balance to the realms.
6. Princes of the Apocalypse
For those who love elemental chaos, Princes of the Apocalypse is the perfect campaign. Players must thwart the rise of elemental cults that threaten the world. The campaign features four deadly temples dedicated to each element, each with its own challenges and bosses. It’s a classic good vs. evil tale with a high degree of difficulty and rewarding gameplay.
7. Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden
Set in the frigid north of the Forgotten Realms, Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden offers a chilling tale of survival against the elements and eldritch horror. The campaign is non-linear, allowing players to explore the frozen tundra and uncover the mystery of the Frostmaiden. It’s atmospheric and richly detailed, making every encounter a potential struggle for survival.
8. Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus
A descent into the first layer of Hell, Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus starts in the city of Baldur’s Gate and takes players on a hellish ride through Avernus. The campaign features infernal war machines, diabolical contracts, and a battle to save a city from eternal damnation. It’s a high-stakes adventure with a dark, gritty tone and plenty of moral dilemmas.
9. Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Ghosts of Saltmarsh compiles several classic nautical adventures into one campaign. It’s perfect for those who love sea voyages, pirate battles, and underwater exploration. The modular nature of the adventures allows Dungeon Masters to weave them into existing campaigns or run them as a cohesive storyline. The maritime theme is unique and refreshing.
10. Candlekeep Mysteries
A collection of short adventures, Candlekeep Mysteries offers a variety of one-shot stories perfect for a quick game night. Each adventure starts with a book found in the mystical library of Candlekeep, leading to diverse quests ranging from whimsical to deadly. It’s an excellent resource for Dungeon Masters looking for quick, ready-to-play adventures.
11. Tyranny of Dragons
Tyranny of Dragons combines two adventures: Hoard of the Dragon Queen and The Rise of Tiamat. The campaign chronicles the rise of the cult of the dragon and their attempt to summon the dragon goddess Tiamat. It’s a classic high-fantasy adventure with epic battles and a storyline that could determine the fate of the world.
12. Wild Beyond the Witchlight
A whimsical and enchanting campaign, Wild Beyond the Witchlight takes players to the Feywild, a realm of magic and wonder. The campaign revolves around a magical carnival and the mysterious fey that run it. It’s a departure from the typical combat-heavy adventures, focusing more on role-playing, exploration, and puzzle-solving.
13. The Lost Mine of Phandelver
Often recommended as the perfect starter adventure, The Lost Mine of Phandelver introduces new players to the world of D&D. The campaign combines elements of exploration, combat, and role-playing in a balanced manner. It’s a classic tale of treasure hunting and heroism, perfect for setting the stage for future adventures.
14. Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Dungeon of the Mad Mage is a mega-dungeon crawl set in the infamous Undermountain. Players delve into the depths beneath Waterdeep, facing myriad traps, monsters, and magical phenomena. It’s a campaign that promises extensive playtime and endless surprises, ideal for groups that love intricate dungeon exploration.
Conclusion
Ranking every D&D 5e campaign book is a challenging task, given the diversity and richness each one offers. From the dark corridors of Barovia to the hellish plains of Avernus, these campaigns provide unique experiences that cater to various play styles and preferences. Whether you seek gothic horror, epic fantasy, or whimsical fey adventures, there’s a D&D 5e campaign book that’s perfect for your next epic journey.