Monk Unarmed Attack Multiclassing A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Monk Unarmed Attacks
The core of the Monk class lies in their unarmed strikes, a versatile and potent offensive option that sets them apart from other martial classes in Dungeons and Dragons. Unlike typical characters who might resort to a simple punch or kick dealing minimal damage, Monks are trained to channel their chi into devastating blows, making their unarmed attacks a formidable weapon. This section delves into the mechanics and nuances of Monk unarmed attacks, providing a comprehensive understanding of their capabilities and scaling.
At the heart of the Monk's unarmed prowess is the Martial Arts feature, a cornerstone of their class abilities. This feature dictates several key aspects of their unarmed combat: the damage die they use for unarmed strikes, the ability to use Dexterity instead of Strength for attack and damage rolls, and the option to make an additional unarmed strike as a bonus action after taking the Attack action. The damage die for a Monk's unarmed strike starts at 1d4 at 1st level and increases as they gain levels in the Monk class, eventually reaching a formidable 1d10 at 17th level. This scaling damage ensures that a Monk's unarmed attacks remain relevant and competitive throughout their adventuring career. For example, at 1st level, a Monk's unarmed strike deals 1d4 damage, which is comparable to a dagger or sling. However, by 5th level, this increases to 1d6, matching the damage of a shortsword. By 11th level, it becomes 1d8, surpassing many common weapons, and at 17th level, it reaches 1d10, rivaling the damage of some two-handed weapons. This progression makes the Monk's unarmed strikes a reliable and effective damage source, particularly when combined with their other abilities.
The ability to use Dexterity instead of Strength for attack and damage rolls is another crucial aspect of the Martial Arts feature. This allows Monks to focus on a single ability score, Dexterity, for both their offensive and defensive capabilities. Dexterity not only improves their accuracy and damage with unarmed strikes but also enhances their Armor Class (AC), initiative, and various skills such as Acrobatics and Stealth. This synergy makes Monks incredibly agile and difficult to hit, allowing them to weave in and out of combat while delivering swift and precise strikes. Monks are also known for their exceptional mobility in combat, and this is further enhanced by their ability to make an additional unarmed strike as a bonus action. This bonus action attack, granted by the Martial Arts feature, allows Monks to unleash a flurry of blows, significantly increasing their damage output. This extra attack can be particularly effective when combined with other Monk features, such as Flurry of Blows, which allows them to make two additional unarmed strikes as a bonus action by spending a ki point. The ability to make multiple attacks in a single turn makes Monks formidable damage dealers, capable of overwhelming opponents with a barrage of strikes.
Beyond the Martial Arts feature, Monks gain access to various other abilities that enhance their unarmed combat prowess. Ki is a vital resource for Monks, fueling many of their signature moves and abilities. Ki points can be spent to activate features like Flurry of Blows, Patient Defense, and Step of the Wind, each of which provides significant combat advantages. Flurry of Blows, as mentioned earlier, allows Monks to make two additional unarmed strikes as a bonus action, effectively doubling their attack output in a single turn. Patient Defense allows Monks to take the Dodge action as a bonus action, making them more difficult to hit, while Step of the Wind allows them to Disengage or Dash as a bonus action, greatly enhancing their mobility. These ki-powered abilities make Monks incredibly versatile in combat, allowing them to adapt to different situations and opponents. Monks also gain access to Stunning Strike, a powerful technique that allows them to attempt to stun an opponent with an unarmed strike. This ability, available at 5th level, can be a game-changer in combat, as a stunned creature is effectively incapacitated, making it an easy target for the Monk and their allies. The combination of high damage output, mobility, and control options makes Monks a formidable force on the battlefield. As Monks gain levels, they also gain access to various other features that further enhance their unarmed combat abilities, such as Deflect Missiles, which allows them to catch projectiles, and Stillness of Mind, which allows them to end certain conditions affecting them. These features, combined with their scaling unarmed strike damage and ki-powered abilities, make Monks a powerful and versatile class in Dungeons and Dragons.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Multiclassing for Monks
Multiclassing, the practice of combining levels from different classes in Dungeons & Dragons, offers a tantalizing prospect for Monks seeking to diversify their abilities. However, it's a double-edged sword, presenting both significant benefits and potential drawbacks that must be carefully weighed. For Monks, multiclassing can open doors to new combat styles, utility options, and roleplaying opportunities, but it can also dilute their core Monk abilities and delay access to crucial high-level features. In this section, we'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of multiclassing for Monks, providing a balanced perspective to help you make an informed decision for your character.
One of the primary benefits of multiclassing for Monks is the access to new skills, proficiencies, and abilities that complement their existing skillset. Monks, while formidable in unarmed combat and highly mobile, can sometimes lack in areas such as ranged damage, social skills, or out-of-combat utility. Multiclassing into a class like Rogue can grant them expertise in skills like Stealth and Acrobatics, enhancing their already impressive mobility and making them even more adept at infiltration and reconnaissance. A few levels in Ranger can provide access to ranged weapon proficiency, Hunter's Mark for increased damage output, and potentially even a Beast Companion for additional battlefield support. Similarly, dipping into Cleric can offer access to healing spells, divine support abilities, and potentially even heavier armor proficiency, bolstering their survivability. These additional tools can round out a Monk's capabilities, making them more versatile and effective in a wider range of situations. Multiclassing can also provide access to new combat styles and tactical options. For instance, a Monk multiclassed with Fighter can gain access to Action Surge, allowing them to take an additional action on their turn, potentially unleashing a devastating flurry of attacks. The Fighting Style feature from Fighter can also enhance their combat prowess, such as the Dueling style which provides a bonus to damage rolls when wielding a one-handed weapon (which can apply to a Monk's quarterstaff) or the Archery style which improves their accuracy with ranged weapons. Dipping into Barbarian can grant access to Rage, providing temporary hit points and increased damage output, making them even more formidable in melee combat. These additional combat options can significantly alter a Monk's playstyle, allowing them to adapt to different challenges and opponents.
However, multiclassing also comes with significant drawbacks. The most prominent of these is the delay in gaining higher-level Monk features. Monks, like many martial classes, gain access to some of their most powerful abilities at higher levels, such as Empty Body (which grants invisibility and resistance to all damage except force damage) and Perfect Self (which restores ki points at the start of combat). Multiclassing can postpone the acquisition of these features, potentially weakening the character in the long run. The scaling damage of the Monk's unarmed strikes is also tied to their Monk level, meaning that multiclassing can slow down the progression of this damage. For example, a Monk's unarmed strike damage increases from 1d4 at 1st level to 1d6 at 5th level, 1d8 at 11th level, and 1d10 at 17th level. Multiclassing can delay these damage increases, making the Monk less effective in melee combat. Another potential drawback is the dilution of the Monk's ki pool. Ki points are a crucial resource for Monks, fueling many of their signature abilities such as Flurry of Blows, Patient Defense, and Step of the Wind. These abilities are essential for the Monk's combat effectiveness, and a smaller ki pool can significantly limit their options in combat. Additionally, some Monk subclasses rely heavily on ki point expenditure, making a smaller ki pool even more detrimental. Multiclassing can also lead to attribute spread issues. Monks are primarily reliant on Dexterity and Wisdom, with Constitution being another important stat for their survivability. Multiclassing into certain classes, such as Paladin or Ranger, may require additional investment in other ability scores like Strength or Charisma, potentially spreading the character's attributes too thin. This can weaken the character's overall effectiveness, as they may not be able to excel in any particular area. Finally, multiclassing can sometimes create a disjointed character concept. A haphazardly planned multiclass can result in a character that lacks a cohesive identity and struggles to perform consistently in different situations. It's crucial to carefully consider the thematic and mechanical synergy between the classes being combined to ensure that the resulting character is both effective and enjoyable to play. In conclusion, while multiclassing can offer exciting possibilities for Monks, it's essential to carefully weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. A well-planned multiclass can enhance a Monk's versatility and effectiveness, but a poorly executed one can lead to a weaker and less focused character.
Best Classes to Multiclass with Monk for Unarmed Attacks
For Monks looking to augment their unarmed combat prowess through multiclassing, several classes offer synergistic features that can enhance their damage output, survivability, and overall effectiveness. The key lies in finding classes that complement the Monk's existing abilities and address their weaknesses, creating a well-rounded and formidable character. This section will delve into the best classes to multiclass with Monk for unarmed attacks, highlighting the specific features and benefits each class brings to the table.
Rogue is a popular and potent multiclass option for Monks, particularly for those seeking to enhance their damage output and utility. The Rogue's Sneak Attack feature, which grants additional damage when attacking a creature that is engaged in melee combat with an ally or has another condition that makes it vulnerable, synergizes exceptionally well with the Monk's mobility and Flurry of Blows ability. A Monk/Rogue can dart in and out of combat, delivering a flurry of blows and then disengaging to avoid retaliation, all while dealing substantial Sneak Attack damage. The Assassin subclass of Rogue is particularly appealing, as it grants the Assassinate feature, which provides advantage on attack rolls against creatures that haven't taken a turn in combat and deals additional damage against surprised creatures. This can be devastating when combined with the Monk's high initiative and ability to stun opponents with Stunning Strike. Furthermore, the Rogue's expertise in skills like Stealth, Acrobatics, and Insight can greatly enhance the Monk's out-of-combat utility, making them adept at infiltration, reconnaissance, and social interactions. The combination of the Monk's mobility and combat prowess with the Rogue's sneakiness and skill proficiency creates a versatile and formidable character capable of excelling in a variety of situations. However, it's important to note that the Sneak Attack damage only applies to weapon attacks, so it won't directly enhance the Monk's unarmed strikes. Instead, it encourages the use of weapons like daggers or shortswords, which can be a minor deviation from the pure unarmed combat style.
Fighter is another excellent choice for Monks looking to bolster their combat capabilities. The Fighter class offers several features that synergize well with the Monk's unarmed combat style, particularly at low levels. The Fighting Style feature, gained at 1st level, provides a passive bonus that can significantly enhance the Monk's damage output or survivability. The Dueling fighting style, which grants a +2 bonus to damage rolls when wielding a melee weapon in one hand and no other weapons, is particularly appealing as it can apply to the Monk's quarterstaff, providing a consistent damage boost. The Defense fighting style, which grants a +1 bonus to AC when wearing armor, can also be beneficial, especially for Monks who multiclass into subclasses that grant armor proficiency. The Action Surge feature, gained at 2nd level, is a game-changer for Monks, allowing them to take an additional action on their turn. This can be used to unleash a devastating flurry of attacks, cast a crucial spell, or take the Dodge action to avoid incoming damage. The Battle Master subclass of Fighter is a particularly strong choice for Monks, as it grants access to Combat Superiority dice, which can be used to enhance attacks, control the battlefield, and disrupt opponents. Maneuvers like Pushing Attack, Tripping Attack, and Disarming Attack can be used to create openings for the Monk and their allies, while Riposte and Parry can enhance their defensive capabilities. The combination of the Monk's mobility and unarmed combat prowess with the Fighter's tactical options and damage output creates a versatile and formidable warrior. A few levels in Fighter can significantly enhance a Monk's combat effectiveness, providing them with additional damage, survivability, and tactical options. However, it's important to note that the Fighter's heavy armor proficiency is generally less useful for Monks, as they rely on their Dexterity and Wisdom for AC. Therefore, subclasses that grant heavy armor proficiency, such as the Eldritch Knight, may be less optimal than subclasses like Battle Master or Champion.
Cleric may seem like an unconventional choice for a Monk multiclass, but it can provide a surprising amount of utility and support, particularly for Monks seeking to enhance their survivability and provide aid to their allies. The Cleric class offers access to a wide range of spells, including healing spells, buffs, and control spells, which can greatly enhance the Monk's effectiveness in combat and out of combat. The Healing Word spell, for instance, is a quick and efficient way to restore hit points to an injured ally, while Bless can provide a significant boost to the attack rolls and saving throws of the Monk and their companions. The various Cleric domains offer a diverse range of features that can synergize well with the Monk's abilities. The Life Domain, for example, grants additional healing power, making the Monk an even more effective healer. The War Domain provides martial weapon proficiency and additional combat abilities, while the Trickery Domain offers stealth and illusion magic, complementing the Monk's mobility and trickery. The combination of the Monk's martial prowess with the Cleric's divine magic creates a versatile and resilient character capable of both dealing damage and supporting their allies. A few levels in Cleric can provide a Monk with access to crucial healing spells, buffs, and control options, enhancing their survivability and utility. However, it's important to note that the Cleric class relies heavily on Wisdom, which is already a key ability score for Monks. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that the character has a sufficiently high Wisdom score to effectively utilize Cleric spells. Additionally, the Cleric's armor proficiency may be less useful for Monks, as they typically rely on their Dexterity and Wisdom for AC. Therefore, subclasses that grant heavy armor proficiency, such as the Life Domain, may be less optimal than subclasses that offer other benefits, such as the Trickery Domain or the War Domain.
Building a Monk Multiclass: Key Considerations
Crafting an effective Monk multiclass character requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. A successful multiclass build should not only synergize the abilities of the chosen classes but also align with the character's concept and playstyle. This section outlines the key considerations for building a Monk multiclass, providing guidance on attribute allocation, class selection, level distribution, and thematic coherence.
Attribute Allocation is a crucial aspect of any D&D character build, but it's particularly important for multiclass characters. Monks are primarily reliant on Dexterity and Wisdom, with Constitution being another important stat for their survivability. Dexterity enhances their Armor Class (AC), attack rolls, and damage with unarmed strikes, while Wisdom fuels their ki abilities and spellcasting (if multiclassing into a spellcasting class). Constitution determines their hit points and improves their resilience to damage. When multiclassing, it's essential to ensure that the character has sufficient attributes to meet the requirements of both classes. For instance, multiclassing into a class like Paladin requires a minimum Strength score of 13, while multiclassing into a spellcasting class like Cleric or Druid requires a minimum Wisdom score of 13. Neglecting these requirements can prevent the character from effectively utilizing the abilities of both classes. Ideally, a Monk multiclass character should prioritize Dexterity and Wisdom, aiming for at least 16 in both stats. Constitution should also be a priority, especially for melee-focused builds. If multiclassing into a class that relies on a different attribute, such as Charisma for Paladins or Sorcerers, it may be necessary to sacrifice some points in other stats to ensure sufficient proficiency in the required attributes. A balanced approach is key, ensuring that the character is effective in their chosen roles without being overly reliant on any single attribute. Using point-buy or standard array methods for attribute allocation can help ensure a well-rounded character build. For example, a Monk/Rogue multiclass might prioritize Dexterity and Wisdom, allocating 15 to Dexterity, 14 to Wisdom, 13 to Constitution, 12 to Intelligence, 10 to Strength, and 8 to Charisma. This distribution provides a solid foundation for both Monk and Rogue abilities, while also ensuring decent survivability.
Class Selection is another critical decision in building a Monk multiclass character. The chosen class should complement the Monk's existing abilities and address their weaknesses, creating a synergistic and effective character. As discussed in the previous section, Rogue, Fighter, and Cleric are popular and potent multiclass options for Monks, but other classes may also be suitable depending on the desired playstyle and character concept. When selecting a multiclass, it's important to consider the core features and abilities of each class and how they interact with the Monk's abilities. For instance, the Rogue's Sneak Attack feature can significantly enhance the Monk's damage output, while the Fighter's Action Surge can provide additional action economy. The Cleric's spells can provide healing, buffs, and control options, while the Ranger's Hunter's Mark and Beast Companion can add ranged damage and battlefield support. It's also crucial to consider the subclasses available for each class, as they can significantly alter the character's playstyle and abilities. For example, the Battle Master Fighter offers tactical combat options, while the Assassin Rogue excels at dealing burst damage. The Life Domain Cleric is a powerful healer, while the Trickery Domain Cleric offers stealth and illusion magic. The chosen subclass should align with the character's concept and playstyle, creating a cohesive and effective build. A useful approach to class selection is to identify the character's primary role in the party and choose classes that support that role. For example, a Monk seeking to be a damage dealer might multiclass into Rogue or Fighter, while a Monk seeking to provide support might multiclass into Cleric or Druid. A Monk seeking to be a versatile character might multiclass into Ranger or Bard, gaining access to both martial and magical abilities. The key is to choose classes that enhance the character's chosen role and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.
Level Distribution is a key factor in determining the effectiveness of a Monk multiclass character. The number of levels taken in each class can significantly impact the character's abilities, features, and overall power level. A common approach to level distribution is to take a small dip into another class, typically 1-3 levels, to gain specific features or abilities that synergize well with the Monk's core abilities. For example, a 2-level dip into Fighter can provide Action Surge and a Fighting Style, while a 3-level dip into Rogue can grant access to a Rogue subclass and additional skill proficiencies. These small dips can significantly enhance the Monk's combat effectiveness or utility without significantly delaying their access to high-level Monk features. Another approach is to take a more balanced distribution of levels, splitting the character's levels more evenly between the two classes. This approach can create a more versatile character with a wider range of abilities, but it can also delay access to high-level features from both classes. For example, a Monk 10/Rogue 10 character would have access to a significant number of abilities from both classes, but they would not have access to the highest-level features of either class. When determining level distribution, it's important to consider the character's long-term goals and the specific features they want to acquire. For example, if the character is primarily focused on damage output, they may prioritize levels in classes that enhance their damage, such as Rogue or Fighter. If the character is primarily focused on support, they may prioritize levels in classes that provide healing or buffs, such as Cleric or Druid. It's also important to consider the level progression of the chosen classes and how the character's abilities will scale over time. For example, the Monk's unarmed strike damage scales with Monk level, so delaying Monk levels can impact the character's melee damage. Similarly, spellcasting classes gain access to higher-level spells at higher levels, so delaying spellcasting levels can impact the character's magical power. In general, a well-planned level distribution should strike a balance between immediate benefits and long-term goals, ensuring that the character is effective at all levels of play.
Thematic Coherence is an often overlooked but crucial aspect of building a Monk multiclass character. A successful multiclass build should not only be mechanically effective but also thematically coherent, creating a character with a compelling backstory and a consistent identity. The chosen classes should align with the character's personality, motivations, and overall concept, creating a character that feels believable and engaging. A haphazardly planned multiclass can result in a character that lacks a cohesive identity and struggles to fit into the game world. When considering thematic coherence, it's important to think about why the character is multiclassing and how their experiences in one class have led them to pursue training in another. For example, a Monk who has witnessed the suffering of others might multiclass into Cleric to gain the power to heal, while a Monk who has been betrayed might multiclass into Rogue to hone their skills in stealth and deception. The multiclass should be a natural extension of the character's backstory and motivations, creating a seamless transition between classes. It's also important to consider the character's personality and how it aligns with the chosen classes. A stoic and disciplined Monk might be well-suited to multiclassing into Fighter or Paladin, while a more charismatic and outgoing Monk might be better suited to multiclassing into Bard or Sorcerer. The character's personality should inform their class choices, creating a character that feels authentic and believable. Finally, it's important to consider the character's overall concept and how the multiclass enhances that concept. For example, a Monk/Rogue multiclass might be envisioned as a shadowy assassin, while a Monk/Cleric multiclass might be envisioned as a devout healer and protector. The multiclass should enhance the character's core concept, creating a character that is both mechanically effective and thematically compelling. In conclusion, building a successful Monk multiclass character requires careful consideration of various factors, including attribute allocation, class selection, level distribution, and thematic coherence. A well-planned multiclass can create a powerful and versatile character, but a poorly executed one can result in a weaker and less focused character. By carefully considering these key considerations, players can create Monk multiclass characters that are both mechanically effective and thematically compelling, adding depth and richness to their D&D campaigns.
Sample Monk Multiclass Builds for Unarmed Attacks
To illustrate the principles discussed earlier, this section presents sample Monk multiclass builds optimized for unarmed attacks. These builds demonstrate how to combine different classes with the Monk to create effective and thematic characters, showcasing various approaches to attribute allocation, class selection, and level distribution.
The Shadow Striker: Monk (Way of Shadow) / Rogue (Assassin)
This build combines the Monk's mobility and unarmed combat prowess with the Rogue's stealth and assassination capabilities, creating a deadly and elusive character. The Shadow Striker excels at infiltrating enemy lines, delivering devastating surprise attacks, and disappearing back into the shadows.
- Classes: Monk (Way of Shadow) 11 / Rogue (Assassin) 9
- Key Attributes: Dexterity (16), Wisdom (14), Constitution (13)
- Level Progression:
- Levels 1-5: Monk (Way of Shadow) - Focus on core Monk abilities, including Martial Arts, Ki, and Shadow Step.
- Levels 6-8: Rogue (Assassin) - Gain Sneak Attack, Expertise, and the Assassinate feature for devastating surprise attacks.
- Levels 9-11: Monk (Way of Shadow) - Enhance Monk abilities, including Stunning Strike and Shadow Arts.
- Levels 12-20: Split levels between Monk and Rogue, focusing on abilities that enhance stealth, mobility, and damage output.
- Key Features:
- Sneak Attack: Adds significant damage to attacks against flanked or surprised creatures.
- Assassinate: Provides advantage on attacks against creatures that haven't taken a turn in combat and deals additional damage against surprised creatures.
- Shadow Step: Allows teleportation between shadows, enhancing mobility and infiltration.
- Stunning Strike: Incapacitates enemies, making them vulnerable to Sneak Attack and other attacks.
- Expertise: Doubles proficiency bonus for Stealth and other skills, enhancing stealth and infiltration capabilities.
- Playstyle: The Shadow Striker excels at infiltrating enemy lines, delivering devastating surprise attacks, and disappearing back into the shadows. They use their mobility and stealth to position themselves for Sneak Attack and Assassinate opportunities, stunning opponents and unleashing a flurry of blows. They can also use their shadow magic to teleport, create distractions, and control the battlefield.
The Battle Monk: Monk (Way of the Open Hand) / Fighter (Battle Master)
This build combines the Monk's unarmed combat expertise with the Fighter's tactical combat options and damage output, creating a versatile and formidable warrior. The Battle Monk excels at controlling the battlefield, disrupting opponents, and dealing consistent damage in melee combat.
- Classes: Monk (Way of the Open Hand) 13 / Fighter (Battle Master) 7
- Key Attributes: Dexterity (16), Wisdom (14), Constitution (13)
- Level Progression:
- Levels 1-5: Monk (Way of the Open Hand) - Focus on core Monk abilities and Flurry of Blows.
- Levels 6-8: Fighter (Battle Master) - Gain Action Surge, Fighting Style (Dueling), and Combat Superiority dice for tactical combat options.
- Levels 9-13: Monk (Way of the Open Hand) - Enhance Monk abilities and gain access to high-level Monk features.
- Levels 14-20: Split levels between Monk and Fighter, focusing on abilities that enhance damage output and battlefield control.
- Key Features:
- Action Surge: Allows an additional action on the Battle Monk's turn, enabling devastating combinations of attacks and maneuvers.
- Fighting Style (Dueling): Grants a +2 bonus to damage rolls when wielding a melee weapon in one hand and no other weapons, enhancing damage output with a quarterstaff.
- Combat Superiority: Provides a pool of dice to fuel maneuvers that disrupt and control opponents.
- Flurry of Blows: Allows additional unarmed strikes as a bonus action, increasing damage output.
- Stunning Strike: Incapacitates enemies, making them vulnerable to attacks and maneuvers.
- Playstyle: The Battle Monk excels at controlling the battlefield and disrupting opponents. They use their Flurry of Blows and Combat Superiority maneuvers to deal damage, stun opponents, and create openings for their allies. Action Surge allows them to unleash a flurry of attacks or take a crucial action in a pinch.
The Divine Fist: Monk (Way of Mercy) / Cleric (Life Domain)
This build combines the Monk's martial prowess with the Cleric's healing and support magic, creating a compassionate and resilient healer. The Divine Fist excels at providing healing and support to their allies while also dealing damage in melee combat.
- Classes: Monk (Way of Mercy) 14 / Cleric (Life Domain) 6
- Key Attributes: Dexterity (14), Wisdom (16), Constitution (13)
- Level Progression:
- Levels 1-5: Monk (Way of Mercy) - Focus on core Monk abilities and Way of Mercy features for healing and support.
- Levels 6-7: Cleric (Life Domain) - Gain access to healing spells and the Life Domain's bonus to healing.
- Levels 8-14: Monk (Way of Mercy) - Enhance Monk abilities and healing capabilities.
- Levels 15-20: Split levels between Monk and Cleric, focusing on abilities that enhance healing and support.
- Key Features:
- Disciple of Life: Provides a bonus to healing spells, making the Divine Fist an effective healer.
- Hands of Healing and Harm: Allows the Monk to heal or damage creatures with ki-powered touch.
- Healing Word: A quick and efficient healing spell for restoring hit points to allies.
- Bless: Provides a bonus to attack rolls and saving throws for allies.
- Stunning Strike: Incapacitates enemies, making them easier to target with attacks.
- Playstyle: The Divine Fist excels at providing healing and support to their allies while also dealing damage in melee combat. They use their Monk abilities to engage in melee combat, stunning opponents and delivering a flurry of blows. They use their Cleric spells and Way of Mercy features to heal injured allies and provide buffs to the party.
These sample builds provide a starting point for creating your own Monk multiclass characters. Remember to consider your character's concept, playstyle, and the specific features you want to acquire when making your multiclassing decisions. With careful planning and consideration, you can create a Monk multiclass character that is both mechanically effective and thematically compelling.
Conclusion
Multiclassing a Monk can unlock exciting possibilities, allowing you to tailor your character to specific playstyles and roles. However, it's a decision that demands careful consideration. By understanding the core mechanics of Monk unarmed attacks, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of multiclassing, and exploring synergistic class combinations, you can create a unique and powerful character. Remember to prioritize attribute allocation, level distribution, and thematic coherence to ensure a cohesive and effective build. Whether you envision a shadowy assassin, a tactical warrior, or a compassionate healer, the options for Monk multiclassing are vast and rewarding. Embrace the challenge, experiment with different combinations, and forge a character that truly embodies your vision. The journey of a multiclass character is one of growth and adaptation, allowing you to explore new facets of your character's personality and abilities. So, venture forth and discover the boundless potential that lies in combining the disciplined arts of the Monk with the diverse skills of other classes. The world awaits your unique creation.