Bards, the maestros of magic and music in Dungeons & Dragons, are a versatile and charismatic class that thrives on creativity and expression. Choosing a suitable species can enhance a bard’s abilities and provide unique role-playing opportunities. This article will explore the ten best species for a bard, showcasing the harmonious combinations that elevate their musical and magical talents to new heights.
1 Half-Elf
Half-Elves are born diplomats with a dash of elven grace and human adaptability. Their flexibility allows them to shine in charisma-based abilities and their choice of skills, making them natural bards. Their dual heritage offers a range of skill proficiencies, and the “Fey Ancestry” feature provides charm resistance, which can be a lifesaver for a bard in social situations. With access to the Human and Elf spell lists, Half-Elves have a broader range of magical options to complement their bardic talents. This racial choice harmonizes perfectly with the bard’s role as a charming and versatile performer.
2 Tiefling
Tieflings are often seen as otherworldly and enigmatic, which makes them fascinating bards. Their innate spellcasting, charisma bonus, and resistance to fire damage all align well with the bard’s traits. The “Infernal Legacy” feature also grants the Thaumaturgy cantrip, which complements the bard’s flair for dramatic performances. The intriguing combination of a bard’s charm and a Tiefling’s unique heritage can make for a captivating storyteller and spellcaster, weaving tales of wonder and woe.
3 Aasimar
Aasimar are celestial beings with a solid connection to otherworldly forces, making them intriguing choices for bardic characters. Their “Celestial Legacy” feature grants the Light cantrip and additional healing abilities, which can be essential for a bard who needs to support the party during adventures. With a charisma bonus and an aura of divine radiance, Aasimar bards can be powerful forces for good, shining their light through music and magic in the darkest of dungeons.
4 Satyr
Satyrs are natural musicians known for their festivity and joy. As a bard, Satyr’s natural charm and love of music align perfectly with the bardic class. Their “Mirthful Leaps” feature grants proficiency in performance, a must for any bard, and “Magic Resistance” provides valuable defense against spells and magical effects. The Satyr’s innate talent for musical performance can add a layer of authenticity to your bard’s persona, making them a captivating character.
5 Gnome
Gnomes, with their whimsical nature and curiosity, make delightful bards. Forest Gnomes, in particular, excels as bards with their natural spellcasting abilities, innate agility, and affinity for illusions. Their “Speak with Small Beasts” feature can enhance role-playing opportunities, and their curious minds perfectly suit a bard’s insatiable thirst for knowledge. Whether they’re reciting poems, playing instruments, or weaving illusions, Gnomish bards can add a touch of eccentricity to any adventuring party.
6 Dragonborn
Dragonborn bards offer a fascinating twist on the traditional bardic archetype. With a charisma bonus and the “Breath Weapon” feature, they have a unique blend of magic and dragon ancestry. This breath weapon adds a layer of versatility to their abilities, allowing them to deliver performances with a fiery flourish. Their heritage as dragonkin can be woven into their bardic tale, enhancing their character’s depth and uniqueness as they channel music and draconic power.
7 Tabaxi
Tabaxi, with their feline grace and curiosity, are compelling bards. Their “Feline Agility” feature can be a game-changer, allowing them to move with extraordinary speed, which benefits combat and exploration. With a dexterity bonus, Tabaxi bards can readily excel in dexterity-based skills that bards often rely on. Their affinity for stealth and captivating charm make them excellent bards who can weave tales of adventure and cunning.
8 Goblin
While Goblins might not be the first species that comes to mind for a bard, their unique traits can create a captivating character. With their small size, agile nature, and “Fury of the Small” feature, Goblins can be mischievous and nimble performers. Their love for trickery and an unorthodox approach to storytelling can create a memorable bard who surprises allies and foes with their charisma and resourcefulness.
9 Firbolg
Firbolgs bring a sense of ancient wisdom and the power of nature to the bardic class. With their “Hidden Step” feature and a natural inclination toward wisdom, they can excel as spellcasters and diplomats. Their “Speech of Beast and Leaf” can add depth to their storytelling, allowing them to communicate with creatures and plants. Firbolgs can bridge the natural world and the civilized realm as bards, harmonizing the elements through song and magic.
10 Kenku
Kenku are fascinating bards known for their mimicry and imitation, and they can creatively apply their “Expert Forgery” feature to forging sheet music or scripts for performances. With their natural dexterity and proficiency in stealth, Kenku can be agile and charming bards who excel in social situations and artistic endeavors. The ability to mimic sounds and voices gives them a unique way to entertain, deceive, and communicate, adding an intriguing layer to their bardic repertoire.
In Dungeons & Dragons, the choice of species for your bard can significantly influence your character’s story, abilities, and role-playing opportunities. Each of these ten species offers a distinctive and intriguing path for bards, whether through unique capabilities, rich cultural backgrounds, or innate traits that resonate with the bardic spirit. Ultimately, the best species for your bard depends on the character concept you envision, the stories you want to tell, and the adventures you wish to embark upon.
