Artificers are the tinkerers, inventors, and creators of magical wonders in Dungeons & Dragons. This article explores the ten best species for an artificer, considering their innate traits, abilities, thematic alignment with the artificer class, and the engaging storytelling opportunities they present.
1 Warforged
Warforged, crafted humanoid constructs are the ultimate artificers. With their composite plating, they have built-in armor and unique abilities like the “Integrated Protection” and “Specialized Design.” These features enhance their inventiveness and make them the ideal choice for aspiring artificers.
2 Rock Gnome
Rock Gnomes are natural tinkerers known for their inventiveness. Their “Artificer’s Lore” and “Tinker” features make them apt at crafting and understanding magical devices. Gnome artificers enjoy creating intricate gadgets and magical devices, adding a whimsical touch to their inventions.
3 Hobgoblin
Hobgoblins are disciplined and organized beings with a penchant for craftsmanship and war. The “Artillerist” subclass pairs perfectly with their affinity for combat and inventions. Their “Martial Training” feature also complements the artificer’s ability to wield various weapons and tools.
4 Variant Human
Variant Humans‘ ability score increase allows artificers to tailor their attributes to their preferred artificer specialization. The “Skilled” feature further boosts their tool proficiencies, making them versatile inventors capable of adapting to any situation. Human artificers are resourceful and creative, often specializing in alchemy, tinker devices, or creating enchanted items.
5 Kender
Kender are known for their insatiable curiosity and fascination with everything they encounter. These traits align perfectly with the artificer’s quest for knowledge and mastery of magical inventions. Kender artificers often craft unique, quirky devices and enchantments, bringing their charming twist to artifice.
6 Dispater Tiefling
Dispater Tieflings descended from a lord of the Nine Hells, have a natural affinity for arcane arts and conjuration. The “Infernal Legacy” feature enhances their spellcasting and inventing abilities. Tiefling artificers often craft intricate devices imbued with infernal power, forging a fascinating blend of magic and machinery.
7 Lizardfolk
Lizardfolk are methodical and patient, perfect qualities for artificers. Their “Hunter’s Lore” and “Cunning Artisan” features align well with the artificer’s need for resourcefulness and crafting expertise. Lizardfolk artificers often specialize in creating ingenious gadgets and tools, utilizing their keen understanding of nature and technology.
8 Minotaur
Minotaurs’ strength and fearlessness are well-suited to the challenges that artificers face. The “Hammering Horns” and “Goring Rush” features amplify their combat abilities and prowess as artificer inventors. Minotaur artificers often construct powerful war machines and intricate devices, combining brawn and brilliance in their inventions.
9 Kobold
Kobolds, despite their diminutive stature, are ingenious trap makers and creators. The “Grovel, Cower, and Beg” feature can offer unique narrative opportunities for artificers, and their “Pack Tactics” feature enhances their accuracy with ranged weapons and gadgets. Kobold artificers often excel in creating cunning traps, concealed weapons, and automated defenses.
10 Githzerai
Githzerai are disciplined and possess innate psionic talents. Their “Githzerai Psionics” feature adds a unique twist to artificers, as they combine psionic powers with technological inventions. Githzerai artificers often create wondrous devices that harness the power of the mind and magic.
In Dungeons & Dragons, an artificer’s choice of species can significantly influence their inventions, expertise, and role in the campaign. Each of these species offers distinctive thematic elements and practical advantages for artificers, from the mechanical precision of Warforged to the creative ingenuity of Gnomes. When selecting the best species for your artificer character, consider the character’s backstory, preferred specialization, and potential to craft innovative wonders that reshape the D&D world.
