[Image of a character in Dungeons and Dragons wearing armor]
How to Calculate Armor Class (AC) in Dungeons & Dragons 5e
Introduction: Hey Readers!
Greetings, fellow adventurers! Welcome to the comprehensive guide on calculating Armor Class (AC) in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition. Armor Class is a crucial statistic in D&D, as it determines your character’s ability to withstand attacks. In this article, we’ll delve into the different factors that affect AC and provide a step-by-step guide to help you optimize your character’s defenses.
Determining Base Armor Class
Mythical Armor Classes
In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, armor classes have evolved throughout various editions. In previous editions, AC values could sometimes reach mythical levels, such as -10 or -20. However, in 5th Edition, AC values are typically more grounded, ranging from 10 to 25.
The 10 Basic AC
The starting point for any character’s AC is 10. This represents their innate ability to dodge, duck, and parry incoming attacks.
Modifiers to AC
Dexterity Bonus
Your Dexterity modifier plays a significant role in your AC. It represents your character’s agility and finesse in avoiding attacks. For example, a character with a Dexterity score of 14 has a +2 Dexterity modifier, which adds to their AC.
Armor Bonus
The type of armor you wear grants you a bonus to AC. Plate armor provides the highest bonus, while unarmored characters have the lowest. The armor bonus is usually printed on the armor itself.
Shield Bonus
Carrying a shield grants you an additional +2 bonus to AC. Shields also provide advantages against specific damage types, such as arrows or spells.
Special Features
Certain class features, items, and spells can grant additional bonuses or penalties to AC. For example, the monk’s Unarmored Defense ability allows them to use their Wisdom modifier instead of Dexterity for their AC calculation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating AC
- Start with 10: Every character has a base AC of 10.
- Add Dex Modifier: Add your Dexterity modifier to the base AC.
- Add Armor Bonus: Add the bonus granted by your armor.
- Add Shield Bonus: If you’re using a shield, add +2 to your AC.
- Apply Special Modifiers: Add or subtract any bonuses or penalties granted by class features, items, or spells.
AC Table Breakdown
| Armor Type | AC Bonus |
|---|---|
| Unarmored | +0 |
| Padded | +1 |
| Leather | +2 |
| Studded Leather | +3 |
| Chain Shirt | +4 |
| Scale Mail | +5 |
| Chain Mail | +6 |
| Plate Mail | +8 |
Conclusion: Gear Up and Stay Protected!
Calculating your AC in Dungeons & Dragons 5e is essential for protecting your character from harm. By understanding the different factors that affect AC, you can optimize your defenses and become a formidable foe on the battlefield.
For more tips and tricks on enhancing your D&D experience, check out our other articles on character building, combat mechanics, and world-building.
FAQ about Calculating Armor Class (AC) in 5th Edition Dungeons & Dragons (5e)
What is Armor Class (AC)?
AC represents a character’s ability to avoid being harmed by attacks made in combat.
How is AC Calculated?
AC = 10 + Armor Class Bonus + Shield Bonus + Dexterity Modifier (if applicable)
What is Armor Class Bonus?
Armor Class Bonus is determined by the type of armor worn. The bonus is listed in the armor’s description.
What is Shield Bonus?
If a character is holding a shield, they receive a +2 to their AC.
What is Dexterity Modifier?
Dexterity Modifier affects AC if the character is wearing light or medium armor. The modifier is added to the AC. This does not apply if the character is wearing heavy armor.
What is the Maximum AC?
The maximum AC without magical bonuses is 29.
How does Unarmored Defense Work?
Some classes, such as monks, can use their Dexterity and Wisdom modifiers to calculate AC while unarmored or wearing only light armor.
How do Magical Items Affect AC?
Magical items, such as rings or cloaks, can grant additional bonuses to AC.
What are the Different Types of Armor?
There are three types of armor in 5e: light, medium, and heavy. Light armor allows for a higher AC bonus from Dexterity, medium armor offers a balanced AC, and heavy armor gives the highest AC bonus but restricts movement.
Can I Use Multiple AC Bonuses?
You cannot combine multiple AC bonuses of the same type (e.g., you cannot have a +4 AC bonus from both armor and a magical item). However, you can combine different types of bonuses (e.g., +2 AC from armor and +2 AC from a shield).
