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{{Short description|Series of Dungeons & Dragons player rulebooks}} {{Infobox book | name = Players Handbook (1978) | image = PlayersHandbook8Cover.jpg | caption = Cover | author = [[Gary Gygax]] | illustrator = | cover_artist = [[David A. Trampier]] | country = United States | language = English | series = | subject = [[Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1st Edition|Dungeons & Dragons 1st Edition]] | genre = [[Role-playing game]] | publisher = [[TSR, Inc.]] | pub_date = June 1978 | media_type = Print ([[Hardcover]]) | pages = 128 | isbn = 0-935696-01-6 | dewey = 794 19 | congress = GV1469.62.D84 G94 1980 | oclc = 13498304 | preceded_by = | followed_by = }} The '''''Player's Handbook''''' (spelled '''''Players Handbook''''' in first edition ''[[Advanced Dungeons & Dragons]]'' (''AD&D'')) is the name given to one of the core rulebooks in every edition of the [[fantasy]] [[role-playing game]] ''[[Dungeons & Dragons]]'' (''D&D''). It does not contain the complete set of rules for the game, and only includes rules for use by players of the game. Additional rules, for use by [[Dungeon Master]]s (DMs), who [[referee]] the game, can be found in the ''[[Dungeon Master's Guide]]''. Many optional rules, such as those governing extremely high-level players, and some of the more obscure spells, are found in other sources. Since the first edition,<ref name="WD10"/> the ''Player's Handbook'' has contained tables and rules for creating characters, lists of the abilities of the different [[character class (Dungeons & Dragons)|character classes]], the properties and costs of equipment, descriptions of [[Magic of Dungeons & Dragons|spells]] that [[Magic of Dungeons & Dragons|magic]]-using character classes (such as [[Wizard (Dungeons & Dragons)|wizards]] or [[Cleric (Dungeons & Dragons)|clerics]]) can cast, and numerous other rules governing gameplay.<ref>{{cite magazine | last =Turnbull | first =Don | title =A Dip Into the Players Handbook | type= analysis and critique | magazine =[[White Dwarf (magazine)|White Dwarf]] | issue = 12 | pages =24–25 | publisher =[[Games Workshop]] |date=April–May 1979 }}</ref> Both the ''Dungeon Master's Guide'' and the ''Player's Handbook'' give advice, tips, and suggestions for various styles of play.<ref>{{cite magazine | last =Pulsipher | first =Lewis | title =An Introduction to Dungeons & Dragons, Part II | type= overview | magazine =[[White Dwarf (magazine)|White Dwarf]] | issue = 24 | pages =10–11 | publisher =[[Games Workshop]] |date=April–May 1981 }}</ref> For most editions of ''D&D'', The ''Player's Handbook'', ''Dungeon Master's Guide'', and ''[[Monster Manual]]'' make up the core rulebooks.<ref>{{cite magazine | last =Livingstone | first =Ian | title =White Dwarf Interviews Gary Gygax | type = interview | magazine =[[White Dwarf (magazine)|White Dwarf]] | issue = 14 | pages =23–24 | publisher =[[Games Workshop]] |date=August–September 1979 }}</ref> ==''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons''== The first ''Players Handbook''<!--This first edition does not have an apostrophe in the title. Please do not add it--> was released in June 1978 as a 128-page hardcover.<ref name="HW">{{cite book|last=Schick |first=Lawrence|title=Heroic Worlds: A History and Guide to Role-Playing Games|publisher=Prometheus Books |year=1991|isbn=0-87975-653-5 |pages=84–85}}</ref><ref name="Acaeum 1E">{{cite web|url=http://www.acaeum.com/ddindexes/setpages/phb.html |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060518031218/http://www.acaeum.com/ddindexes/setpages/phb.html |archivedate=2006-05-18 |website=acaeum.com|accessdate=November 22, 2008 |title=Players Handbook }}</ref> It was written by [[Gary Gygax]] and edited by [[Mike Carr (game designer)|Mike Carr]], who also wrote the foreword. The original cover art was by [[David A. Trampier|D.A. Trampier]],<ref name="HW"/> who also provided interior illustrations along with [[David C. Sutherland III]].<ref>{{cite book | last=Gygax | first=Gary | author-link=Gary Gygax | title=Player's Handbook | publisher=[[TSR, Inc.|TSR]] | year=1978 | isbn=0-935696-01-6 | url-access=registration | url=https://archive.org/details/advanceddungeons00gyga }}</ref> Numerous foreign editions of the ''Players Handbook'' were published, including versions for the United Kingdom, Australia, France, and Germany.<ref>[http://www.acaeum.com/ddindexes/setpages/foreign/phbfor.html PHB Foreign] at acaeum.com. Retrieved November 22, 2008.</ref> [[Games Workshop]] (U.K.) published a softcover version also in 1978.<ref name="HW" /> In 1983, [[TSR (company)|TSR]] changed the cover art of the ''Players Handbook'', although the interior contents remained the same.<ref name="Acaeum 1E" /> This printing featured cover art by [[Jeff Easley]].<ref name="HW" /> Printings with this cover also bear an orange spine that fits in with other ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons'' books.<ref>[http://index.rpg.net/display-entry.phtml?mainid=126&editionid=9077 RPGnet d20 RPG Game Index: AD&D First Edition Players Handbook (1983 TSR edition)]. Retrieved on November 22, 2008.</ref> Dealers continued to place orders for the 1st edition ''Players Handbook'' even after 2nd edition was released, causing the final printing to be in July 1990, a year after the release of 2nd edition.<ref name="Acaeum 1E" /> [[Shannon Appelcline]] highlighted that ''Dungeons & Dragons'' "is one of the few roleplaying games to maintain a split between core books for players and game masters throughout most of its history" and this split started with the release of the ''Players Handbook'' (1978), followed by the release of the ''[[Dungeon Master's Guide|Dungeon Masters Guide]]'' (1979).<ref name=":14">{{Cite web |last=Appelcline |first=Shannon |author-link=Shannon Appelcline |title=Player's Handbook 2 (4e): Product History |url=https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/60481/player-s-handbook-2-4e |access-date=August 29, 2024 |website=DriveThruRPG}}</ref> The ''AD&D'' core game rules were divided between these books,<ref name="WD10" /> and the open-ended nature of the new rules mandated that for game campaigns to be run successfully they would now need a [[Gamemaster|referee]] or [[Dungeon Master]].<ref name="D&Dfaq">{{cite web| url = http://www.wizards.com/dnd/DnDArchives_FAQ.asp| title = ''Dungeons & Dragons'' FAQ| access-date = 2008-10-03| publisher = [[Wizards of the Coast]]| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081002132129/http://www.wizards.com/dnd/DnDArchives_FAQ.asp| url-status = dead| archive-date = 2008-10-02}}</ref> The ''Players Handbook'' contained the information that players needed for playing the standard [[Character class (Dungeons & Dragons)|character classes]]: [[Cleric (Dungeons & Dragons)|cleric]], [[Druid (Dungeons & Dragons)|druid]], [[Fighter (Dungeons & Dragons)|fighter]], [[Ranger (Dungeons & Dragons)|ranger]], [[Paladin (Dungeons & Dragons)|paladin]], [[Wizard (Dungeons & Dragons)|magic-user]], illusionist, [[Rogue (Dungeons & Dragons)|thief]], [[Assassin (Dungeons & Dragons)|assassin]], and [[Monk (Dungeons & Dragons)|monk]].<ref name="HW"/> The book also included information on non-human races, such as [[Dwarf (Dungeons & Dragons)|dwarves]], [[Elf (Dungeons & Dragons)|elves]], and [[Halfling (Dungeons & Dragons)|halflings]], as well as character abilities, equipment such as armor and weapons, descriptions of [[Magic of Dungeons & Dragons|spells]], and optional rules to add [[Psionics (Dungeons & Dragons)|psionics]] to the game.<ref name="HW"/> Appelcline noted that TSR mostly published books aimed at Dungeon Masters after the release of the core rulebooks until "the release of ''[[Unearthed Arcana]]'' (1985), which could easily have been called 'Player's Handbook 2', and ''[[Oriental Adventures]]'' (1985), an 'alternate players handbook' for the east".<ref name=":14" /> In 1999, a [[paperback]] reprint of the first edition was released.<ref name="Fogens">{{cite magazine|title=Classic ''AD&D'' books are back|last=Fogens|first=M.|issue=52|magazine=[[InQuest Gamer]]|page=20|publisher=[[Wizard Entertainment]]|date=August 1999}}</ref> In 2012, Wizards of the Coast released a new printing of the original book, billed as the "1st Edition Premium Player's Handbook", as part of a set of limited-edition reprints of the original 1st Edition core rulebooks: the ''Monster Manual'', ''Player's Handbook'', and ''Dungeon Master's Guide''. These premium versions of the original ''AD&D'' rulebooks were reprinted with the original art and content, but feature a new cover design. Purchase of the reprinted ''Player's Handbook'' helped support the Gygax Memorial Fund—established to immortalize Gary Gygax with a memorial statue in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Product.aspx?x=dnd%2Fproducts%2Fdndacc%2F02410000|title=Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game Official Home Page - Product (1st Edition Premium Player's Handbook)|date=January 21, 2012|access-date=February 13, 2023|archive-date=January 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121042325/http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Product.aspx?x=dnd%2Fproducts%2Fdndacc%2F02410000|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.blackgate.com/2012/08/28/art-of-the-genre-the-old-school-renaissance/ | title=Art of the Genre: The Old School Renaissance – Black Gate | date=28 August 2012 | access-date=3 July 2023 | archive-date=30 August 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240830033432/https://www.blackgate.com/2012/08/28/art-of-the-genre-the-old-school-renaissance/ | url-status=live }}</ref> === Reception === <!-- Reviews that need to be added: * ''[[Casus Belli (magazine)|Casus Belli]]'' (Issue 5 - Sep 1981)<ref>{{cite web | url=https://archive.org/details/casus-belli-005/page/20/mode/2up | title=Casus Belli #005 | date=1981 }}</ref> * ''[[Casus Belli (magazine)|Casus Belli]]'' #34 (Aug 1986)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://rpggeek.com/rpgissuearticle/137109/tetes-daffiche|title=Têtes d'affiche | Article | RPGGeek|website=rpggeek.com|access-date=2020-12-24|archive-date=2021-10-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025205531/https://rpggeek.com/rpgissuearticle/137109/tetes-daffiche|url-status=live}}</ref> --> The original ''Players Handbook'' was reviewed by [[Don Turnbull (game designer)|Don Turnbull]] in issue No. 10 of ''[[White Dwarf (magazine)|White Dwarf]]'', who gave the book a rating of 10 out of 10. Turnbull noted, "I don't think I have ever seen a product sell so quickly as did the ''Handbook'' when it first appeared on the [[Games Workshop]] stand at Dragonmeet", a British role-playing game convention; after the convention, he studied the book and concluded that "whereas [[Dungeons & Dragons (1974)|the original rules]] are ambiguous and muddled, the ''Handbook'' is a detailed and coherent game-system, and very sophisticated."<ref name="WD10" /> Turnbull felt a bit of apprehension at the amount of time it would require to digest all the new material, but concluded by saying "I said of the ''[[Monster Manual]]'' that it was TSR's most impressive publication to date; that is no longer true—this accolade must belong to the ''Handbook'' which is nothing short of a triumph."<ref name="WD10">{{cite magazine | last =Turnbull | first =Don | title =Open Box: Players Handbook| type = review | magazine =[[White Dwarf (magazine)|White Dwarf]] | issue = 10 | page =17 | publisher =[[Games Workshop]] |date=December 1978 – January 1979 }}</ref> Scott Taylor for ''[[Black Gate (magazine)|Black Gate]]'' in 2014 listed the 1st edition ''AD&D'' ''Player's Handbook'' cover by artist [[David Trampier]] as #1 in "The Top 10 TSR Cover Paintings of All Time".<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.blackgate.com/2014/09/17/art-of-the-genre-the-top-10-tsr-cover-paintings-of-all-time/ | title=Art of the Genre: The Top 10 TSR Cover Paintings of All Time – Black Gate | date=17 September 2014 | access-date=28 October 2023 | archive-date=28 October 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028185025/https://www.blackgate.com/2014/09/17/art-of-the-genre-the-top-10-tsr-cover-paintings-of-all-time/ | url-status=live }}</ref> Then in 2016, Taylor listed the ''Player's Handbook'' as #5 on the list of "Top 10 'Orange Spine' ''AD&D'' Hardcovers By Jeff Easley, saying "you aren't going to top Trampier's version, but nonetheless, for many players who didn't start ''D&D'' in the 1980s, THIS is their ''Players Handbook'', and many of us have imagined this fantastic fight as we sat around a gaming table."<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.blackgate.com/2016/09/14/art-of-the-genre-top-10-orange-spine-add-hardcovers-by-jeff-easley/ | title=Art of the Genre: Top 10 'Orange Spine' AD&D Hardcovers by Jeff Easley – Black Gate | date=14 September 2016 | access-date=3 February 2024 | archive-date=3 February 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203203807/https://www.blackgate.com/2016/09/14/art-of-the-genre-top-10-orange-spine-add-hardcovers-by-jeff-easley/ | url-status=live }}</ref> == ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition'' == {{Infobox book | name = Player's Handbook (1989) | image = | author = [[David "Zeb" Cook]] | language = English | country = United States | genre = [[Role-playing game]] | publisher = [[TSR, Inc.]] | isbn = 0-88038-716-5 | caption = | illustrator = [[Douglas Chaffee]], [[Larry Elmore]], Craig Farley, [[John and Laura Lakey]], Erik Olson, Jack Pennington, [[Jeff Butler]], Jeff Easley, Jean E. Martin, [[David C. Sutherland III|Dave Sutherland]] | cover_artist = [[Jeff Easley]] | series = | subject = [[Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition|Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition]] | pub_date = 1989 | media_type = Print | exclude_cover = yes | pages = 246 | oclc = | preceded_by = | followed_by = | notes = }} The ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition Player's Handbook'' was a 256-page hardcover book written by [[David Cook (game designer)|David "Zeb" Cook]] and released in 1989.<ref name="HW"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pen-paper.net/rpgdb.php?op=showbook&bookid=144|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081214223120/http://www.pen-paper.net/rpgdb.php?op=showbook&bookid=144 |archivedate=2008-12-14 |website=Pen & Paper RPG Database|accessdate=November 22, 2008 | title=AD&D; Player's Handbook, 2nd ed. (1989) :: Pen & Paper RPG Database }}</ref><ref name="history">{{cite web| url=http://www.wizards.com/dnd/DnDArchives_History.asp| title=The History of TSR| publisher=[[Wizards of the Coast]]| access-date=2005-08-20| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080924195557/http://www.wizards.com/dnd/DnDArchives_History.asp| url-status=dead| archive-date=2008-09-24}}</ref> The original cover art is by [[Jeff Easley]], and the book featured eight full-page illustrations in color.<ref name="HW"/> [[Gary Gygax]] originally started development of the next edition of ''AD&D'' and planned on incorporating rules revisions from the ''Unearthed Arcana'' (1985) and ''Oriental Adventures'' (1985) in a new ''Player's Handbook''. However, Gygax was forced out of TSR by the end of 1985 "and his plans for second edition were abandoned".<ref name=":15">{{Cite web |last=Appelcline |first=Shannon |author-link=Shannon Appelcline |title=Player's Handbook, Revised (2e): Product History |url=https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/16868/player-s-handbook-revised-2e |access-date=August 29, 2024 |website=DriveThruRPG |archive-date=August 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240830033444/https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/16868/player-s-handbook-revised-2e |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1986, Editor [[Steve Winter]] convinced management at TSR that the game needed more than a "reorganization" and instead that the game "should be redeveloped"; Winter and Cook then spent several years developing ''AD&D'' 2nd Edition.<ref name=":15" /> In August 1987, Director of Games Development [[Michael Dobson (author)|Michael Dobson]] outlined that "the two core books were to be done by December 1987, then turned over to the [[RPGA]] for playtesting in early 1988, then returned to TSR for redevelopment in late 1988" aiming to release in "March or April 1989".<ref name=":15" /> [[Shannon Appelcline]] highlighted that "Dobson's scheduling was quite accurate, as the 2e ''Player's Handbook'' (1989) appeared in February 1989, then the 2e ''Dungeon Master's Guide'' (1989) in May".<ref name=":15" /> The ''Player's Handbook'' (1989) for 2nd edition was designed to be compatible with 1st edition rules, but the information in the book was streamlined and clarified.<ref name="HW"/> Appelcline commented that unlike the previous ''Players Handbook'' (1978), ''Player's Handbook'' (1989) became the larger "core rulebook of the game" and included most of "the character creation rules and ''everything'' else that players should know".<ref name=":15" /> The book contained the information on how to play the standard character classes organized in categories consisting of warriors (fighters, paladins, and rangers), wizards (mages and specialist wizards such as illusionists), priests (clerics, with guidelines for variance by mythos, including the druid as an example), and rogues (thieves and [[Bard (Dungeons & Dragons)|bards]]); while most character classes remained similar to their versions in the 1st edition rules, the bard was regularized to function more like the other classes, and the assassin and monk were removed.<ref name="HW"/> [[TSR, Inc.]] also removed some races from the game, such as half-orcs,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpg.net/news+reviews/columns/archetypology21dec01.html |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221221919/http://www.rpg.net/news%20reviews/columns/archetypology21dec01.html |archivedate=2008-12-21 |website=RPGnet|accessdate=November 22, 2008 |title=The Inside Scoop on Gaming - RPGnet }}</ref> although some of these were added back into the game in supplements, such as ''[[The Complete Book of Humanoids]]''.<ref>[[Bill Slavicsek|Slavicsek, Bill]]. ''The [[Complete Book of Humanoids]]'' (TSR, 1993)</ref> Appelcline noted that following the release of the ''Player's Handbook'' (1989), TSR published a "player-focused series of splatbooks, the "PHBR" ''Complete'' series (1989-1995)";<ref name=":14" /> in the TSR code system, "PHBR" stood for ''Player's Handbook'' reference series.<ref name="D&Dfaq" /> It was in the ''[[Player's Option: Spells & Magic]]'' sourcebook for the second edition that the [[Artificer (Dungeons & Dragons)|artificer]] was first introduced, as a specialist choice for magic users specifically.<ref name=2019referenceA>{{Citation |last = Baird |first = Scott |date = 2019-12-25 |title = Dungeons & Dragons: Everything You Need To Know About The Artificer |publisher = The Gamer |url = https://www.thegamer.com/dungeons-dragons-the-artificer-explained-guide/ |access-date = 2022-07-18 |archive-date = 2022-07-19 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220719000350/https://www.thegamer.com/dungeons-dragons-the-artificer-explained-guide/ |url-status = live }}</ref> A set of optional rules for ''proficiencies'' was added, to represent skills, and sections detailing role-playing, combat, magic, time and movement, equipment, and spell descriptions were all expanded from the original book.<ref name="HW"/><ref name="Arcane9">{{cite journal |last=Butcher |first=Andy |date=August 1996 |title=Games Reviews |journal=Arcane |publisher=[[Future plc|Future Publishing]] |issue=9 |pages=62–63}}</ref> The book included major changes regarding character classes, races, and magic, and incorporated many new rules that had been published in supplements such as ''[[Unearthed Arcana]]'' (1985) and ''[[Dragonlance Adventures]]'' (1987).{{Citation needed|date=August 2024}} {{Infobox book | name = Player's Handbook (1995) | image = | author = [[David "Zeb" Cook]] | language = English | country = United States | genre = [[Role-playing game]] | publisher = [[TSR, Inc.]] | isbn = 0-7869-0329-5 | caption = | illustrator = | cover_artist = [[Jeff Easley]] | series = | subject = [[Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition#Player's Option series|Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition, Revised]] | pub_date = 1995 | media_type = Print | exclude_cover = yes | pages = 320 | oclc = | preceded_by = | followed_by = | notes = }} In 1995, a new version of the 2nd edition ''Player's Handbook'' was released as part of TSR's 25th anniversary.<ref name="history"/> The book was revised, becoming sixty-four pages larger,<ref name="Lyberty">{{cite web|url=http://www.lyberty.com/encyc/articles/dnd/dnd_phb2eR.html |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081214140003/http://www.lyberty.com/encyc/articles/dnd/dnd_phb2eR.html |archivedate=2008-12-14 |website=lyberty.com|accessdate=November 23, 2008 |title=DataBase: AD&D Player's Handbook, 2nd ed. Revised (1995) }}</ref> mainly due to layout changes and new artwork.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pen-paper.net/rpgdb.php?op=showbook&bookid=142 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081215015126/http://www.pen-paper.net/rpgdb.php?op=showbook&bookid=142 |archivedate=2008-12-15 |website=Pen & Paper RPG Database|accessdate=November 23, 2008 | title=AD&D; Player's Handbook, 2nd ed. Revised (1995) :: Pen & Paper RPG Database }}</ref> A new foreword in this edition specifically stated that the book was not ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons'' 3rd edition.<ref name="Lyberty" /> The 2nd edition ''Player's Handbook'' was reproduced as a premium reprint on May 21, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Product.aspx?x=dnd/products/dndacc/35740000 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125003755/http://www.wizards.com/DnD/Product.aspx?x=dnd/products/dndacc/35740000 | url-status=dead | archive-date=January 25, 2013 | title=Player's Handbook | publisher=Wizards of the Coast | access-date=June 24, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.blackgate.com/2013/05/29/add2/ | title=My Youth Was Delivered Yesterday: AD&D 2nd Edition Re-Released – Black Gate | date=29 May 2013 | access-date=12 August 2023 | archive-date=12 August 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230812222142/https://www.blackgate.com/2013/05/29/add2/ | url-status=live }}</ref> ===Reception=== <!-- Reviews that need to be added: * ''[[Magia i Miecz]]'' #22 (October 1995) (Polish)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/MagiaIMiecz199510/page/n7/mode/2up|title = Magia I Miecz 1995 10|date = October 1995}}</ref> * ''[[:fr:Jeux et Stratégie|Jeux & Stratégie]]'' #58<ref>{{cite web | url=https://archive.org/details/jeux-et-strategie-58/page/14/mode/2up | title=Jeux & stratégie 58 | date=May 1989 }}</ref> *''[[Australian Realms]]'' #24<ref>{{cite web | url=https://archive.org/details/australian-realms-magazine/Australian%20Realms%20%2324%20JulyAugust%201995/page/6/mode/2up | title=Australian Realms Magazine - Complete Collection | date=June 1988 }}</ref> --> In the May 1989 edition of ''[[Games International]]'', James Wallis called the 2nd edition "an improvement over the original", but concluded that it was "a step forward for the game, but a very small step." Wallis felt that the many improvements called for by the "archaic mechanics" and "hugely overly-complex" rules had not been addressed, and that the game still provided "a terrible introduction to role-playing." He concluded that the designer "lacked the vision to see what could have been done with the material", and gave the book a below-average rating of 2 out of 5, saying, "''AD&D'' may be the biggest selling rolegame of all time, but like the IBM PC, that doesn't mean that it isn't thoroughly obsolete and to be avoided."<ref name="gi">{{cite magazine |title=Role-Playing Games |last=Wallis | first=James |magazine=[[Games International]] |issue=5 |date=May 1989 |pages=40–41}}</ref> The 2nd edition ''Player's Handbook'' was an [[Origins Award|Origins]] and Gamer's Choice award winner.<ref name="HW"/> [[Lawrence Schick]], in his 1991 book ''Heroic Worlds'', called the book "a vast improvement" over the 1st edition book; he noted that the monk character class had been "banished to ''[[Oriental Adventures]]'' where it belongs", but commented that the spell descriptions "have positively bloated to over 100 pages".<ref name="HW"/> [[Steve Wieck|Stephan Wieck]] reviewed the ''Player's Handbook'' within a broader review of the 2nd Edition rules in a 1989 issue of ''[[White Wolf (magazine)|White Wolf]]''.<ref name="Wieck">{{cite magazine |title=Overview: AD&D 2nd Edition Rules|last=Wieck | first=Stephan|authorlink=Stephan Wieck|magazine=[[White Wolf (magazine)|White Wolf]]|issue=17 |date=August–September 1989 |page=16 |url=https://imgur.com/a/HTFPJ1o}}</ref> He saw the revised rules as a clear improvement.<ref name="Wieck"/> He noted that its "interior is laid out very well and is graphically attractive" with a helpful color scheme.<ref name="Wieck"/> ==''Dungeons & Dragons'' 3rd edition <span class="anchor" id="Dungeons_&_Dragons_3rd_Edition"></span>== {{Infobox book | name = Player's Handbook (2000) | image = | language = English | country = United States | genre = | publisher = [[Wizards of the Coast]] | isbn = 978-0-7869-1550-7 | caption = | authors = [[Monte Cook]], [[Jonathan Tweet]], [[Skip Williams]] | illustrator = [[Lars Grant-West]], [[Scott Fischer (artist)|Scott Fischer]], [[Jon Foster (artist)|John Foster]], [[Todd Lockwood]], [[David L. Martin|David Martin]], [[Arnie Swekel]], [[Sam Wood (artist)|Sam Wood]] | cover_artist = [[Henry Higgenbotham]] | series = | subject = [[Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition]] | pub_date = August 10, 2000 | exclude_cover = yes | media_type = Print | pages = 302 | oclc = | preceded_by = | followed_by = }} The third edition, published August 10, 2000,<ref name="Alumni">[https://web.archive.org/web/20060612195558/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/alumni/20060602a ''D&D'' Alumni: A Look Back at Player's Handbooks]. Retrieved November 23, 2008.</ref> (with the ''Player's Handbook'' debuting at that year's [[Gen Con]],<ref name="D&Dfaq"/> in August 2000<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wizards.com/catalog/product.asp?TSR11550 |title=WotC Product Library: Player's Handbook |publisher=wizards.com |date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020413224855/http://www.wizards.com/catalog/product.asp?TSR11550 |archive-date=April 13, 2002 }}</ref>) represented a major overhaul of the game, including the adoption of the [[d20 system]]. The third edition also dropped the word ''Advanced'' from the title, as the publisher decided to publish only one version of the game instead of both basic and advanced versions. [[Monte Cook]], [[Jonathan Tweet]], and [[Skip Williams]] all contributed to the 3rd edition ''Players Handbook'', ''[[Dungeon Master's Guide]]'', and ''[[Monster Manual]]'', and then each designer wrote one of the books based on those contributions.<ref name="Dragon #275">{{cite magazine| title = Profiles: Monte Cook| magazine = [[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]| issue = #275| pages = 10, 12, 14| publisher = [[Wizards of the Coast]]| location = [[Renton, Washington]]|date=September 2000}}</ref> Tweet is credited with the book's design. The 3rd edition ''Player's Handbook'' also saw the return of half-orcs and monks to the core rules set,<ref name="Alumni" /> along with some all-new classes.<ref name="Alumni"/> The reviewer from ''[[Pyramid (magazine)|Pyramid]]'' commented on the release of third edition, stating: "There's a lot to like about ''Dungeons and Dragons'' 3rd Edition as seen in the ''Player's Handbook''. The new artwork is gorgeous and evocative, and in the 286 pages of the main rulebook there's a lot of well-written and tightly packed rules."<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=1806|title=Pyramid: Pyramid Review: Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition|website=www.sjgames.com|access-date=2013-07-12|archive-date=2013-10-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022161703/http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=1806|url-status=live}}</ref> Another reviewer wrote a response to the first review.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=1822|title=Pyramid: Pyramid Review, Take 2: Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition|website=www.sjgames.com|access-date=2013-07-12|archive-date=2013-10-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022161653/http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=1822|url-status=live}}</ref> A third reviewer felt that the design team "smoothed out the rough edges from ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragon'' 2nd Edition and added tons of new goodies to make ''D&D'' 3rd Edition the best combat-oriented RPG you can buy".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=1823|title=Pyramid: Pyramid Review, Take 3: Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition|website=www.sjgames.com|access-date=2013-07-12|archive-date=2013-10-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022161715/http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=1823|url-status=live}}</ref> === ''Dungeons & Dragons'' v3.5 === {{Infobox book | name = Player's Handbook (2003) | image = | language = English | country = United States | genre = | publisher = [[Wizards of the Coast]] | isbn = 0-7869-2886-7 | caption = | authors = [[Andy Collins (game designer)|Andy Collins]], Peter Adkison, Richard Baker | illustrator = [[Lars Grant-West]], [[Scott Fischer (artist)|Scott Fischer]], [[Jon Foster (artist)|John Foster]], [[Jeremy Jarvis]], [[Todd Lockwood]], [[David L. Martin|David Martin]], [[Wayne Reynolds]], [[Arnie Swekel]], [[Sam Wood (artist)|Sam Wood]] | cover_artist = [[Henry Higginbotham]] | exclude_cover = yes | series = | subject = [[Dungeons & Dragons v3.5]] | pub_date = July 2003<ref name="PHB v3.5 product page">{{Cite web |title=Player's Handbook (July 2003) |url=http://wizards.com/default.asp?x=products/dndcore/175240000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090224105854/http://wizards.com/default.asp?x=products/dndcore/175240000 |archive-date=February 24, 2009 |access-date=August 29, 2024 |website=Wizards of the Coast |type=Product page}}</ref> | media_type = Print | pages = 320<ref name="PHB v3.5 product page"/> | oclc = | preceded_by = | followed_by = [[Player's Handbook II]] (2006) }} In July 2003, the rules were revised again to version 3.5 based on two years of player feedback.<ref name="Revision FAQ">[https://web.archive.org/web/20021220202539/http://www.wizards.com/dnd/article.asp?x=dnd/dx20021206z ''Dungeons & Dragons'' 2003 Core Rulebook Revisions FAQ]. Retrieved November 24, 2008.</ref> Revisions to the ''Player's Handbook'' included the classes becoming more balanced against each other.<ref name="Revision FAQ"/> [[Andy Collins (game designer)|Andy Collins]] explained that he was originally put in charge of "evaluating the 3.0 ''Dungeon Master's Guide'' to see if there were places where the rules could stand any improvement or upgrades" as a "thought experiment for R&D"; however, by winter 2001, there was a shift to developing [[Dungeons & Dragons v3.5|''Dungeons & Dragons'' v3.5]] to reflect the game's rapid evolution.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |last1=Collins |first1=Andy |author-link=Andy Collins (game designer) |last2=Stark |first2=Ed |last3=Allen |first3=Mary Elizabeth |date=July 15, 2003 |title=D&D Version 3.5 Chat Transcript |url=http://archive.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/20030715x |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161101074338/http://archive.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/20030715x |archive-date=November 1, 2016 |access-date=August 29, 2024 |website=3.5 D&D Archive |publisher=[[Wizards of the Coast]]}}</ref> Collins was put in charge of the ''Player's Handbook'' (2003) development with Rich Redman on the ''Dungeon Master's Guide'' (2003) and Skip Williams on the ''Monster Manual'' (2003).<ref name=":11" /> When asked about the changes from the prior ''Player's Handbook'' (2000) release, Williams said "I think they range from the almost invisible (unless it affects your character directly) to the pretty radical," while Collins replied "Well, I don't think I'd call any of the changes 'radical.' Even though some characters will undergo some significant changes, the aim is for the character to still feel like the same character, only with more interesting and balanced options."<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/ps/20030704a| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030811195738/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/ps/20030704a| url-status=dead| archive-date=August 11, 2003| title=Product Spotlight: D&D 3.5 | date=July 4, 2003| publisher=[[Wizards of the Coast]]| access-date=August 11, 2013| last=Ryan| first=Michael}}</ref> [[Monte Cook]], one of the lead designers of the 3rd Edition who left Wizards of the Coast in 2001,<ref>{{cite web |date=April 26, 2012 |title=Monte Cook Exits 'D&D Next' Design Team |url=http://icv2.com/articles/games/view/22766/monte-cook-exits-d-d-next-design-team |access-date=November 14, 2015 |website=[[ICv2]] |publisher= |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117020249/http://icv2.com/articles/games/view/22766/monte-cook-exits-d-d-next-design-team |url-status=live }}</ref> was critical of v3.5 in his review of the new core rulebooks – "this revision is too much, too soon. In fact, it's much more than just a 'revision.' That said, most of the changes it presents are good. The bad changes, thankfully, won't have a huge impact on your game".<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |last=Cook |first=Monte |author-link=Monte Cook |date=July 17, 2003 |title=REVIEWS: Looking at D&D v. 3.5 |url=http://montecook.com/arch_review26.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071017105301/http://montecook.com/arch_review26.html |archive-date=October 17, 2007 |access-date=August 29, 2024 |website=montecook.com}}</ref> Cook claimed that this new edition "was motivated by financial need rather than by design need".<ref name=":12" /> May 2006 saw the release of the ''[[Player's Handbook II]]'', designed to follow up the standard ''Player's Handbook''.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20060314163449/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=products/dndacc/953747200 3rd edition ''Player's Handbook II'' product page]. Retrieved November 24, 2008.</ref> This book was designed by [[David Noonan (game designer)|David Noonan]]. It contains four new classes, along with new spells, feats, and new role-playing options.<ref>[[David Noonan (game designer)|Noonan, David]]. ''Player's Handbook II'' ([[Wizards of the Coast]], 2006).</ref> Its cover pays homage to the 1st edition ''Player's Handbook''.<ref name="Alumni" /> <!-- Reviews that need to be added: * ''[[SF Site]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sfsite.com/08b/du158.htm|title=The SF Site Featured Review: Urban Arcana|website=www.sfsite.com|access-date=2021-09-19|archive-date=2021-09-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920213043/https://www.sfsite.com/08b/du158.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> * ''[[:de:Envoyer|Envoyer]]'' #53<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.envoyer.de/ausgaben/2001/03/D_D_player.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020312044634fw_/http://www.envoyer.de/ausgaben/2001/03/D_D_player.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=2002-03-12 | title=D&D Player´s Handbook 3´te Edition }}</ref> * ''[[:de:Envoyer|Envoyer]]''<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.envoyer.de/ausgaben/2001/09/DDSpielerSet.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020529235631fw_/http://www.envoyer.de/ausgaben/2001/09/DDSpielerSet.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=2002-05-29 | title=D&D: Spieler Set }}</ref> --> The 3.5 edition ''Player's Handbook'' was reproduced as a premium reprint on September 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Product.aspx?x=dnd/products/dndacc/02420000 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120830160957/http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Product.aspx?x=dnd/products/dndacc/02420000 | url-status=dead | archive-date=August 30, 2012 | title=3.5 Edition Premium Player's Handbook | publisher=Wizards of the Coast | access-date=June 24, 2013}}</ref> {{clear}} ==''Dungeons & Dragons'' 4th edition <span class="anchor" id="Dungeons_&_Dragons_4th_Edition"></span>== {{Infobox book | name = Player's Handbook (2008) | image = | caption = | authors = [[Rob Heinsoo]], [[Andy Collins (game designer)|Andy Collins]], [[James Wyatt (game designer)|James Wyatt]] | illustrator = Zoltan Boros, Gabor Szikszai, [[Matt Cavotta]], [[Eric Deschamps]], [[Wayne England]], [[David Griffith (artist)|David Griffith]], [[Ralph Horsley]], [[Howard Lyon]], [[Raven Mimura]], [[Lee Moyer]], [[William O'Connor (artist)|William O'Connor]], [[Steve Prescott (artist)|Steve Prescott]], Dan Scott, [[Anne Stokes]], [[Franz Vohwinkel]], [[Eva Widermann]] | cover_artist = [[Wayne Reynolds]] (front), Dan Scott (back) | country = United States | language = English | series = | subject = [[Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition]] | genre = [[Role-playing game]] | publisher = [[Wizards of the Coast]] | pub_date = June 6, 2008 | exclude_cover = yes | media_type = Print | pages = 320 | isbn = 0-7869-4867-1 | oclc = | preceded_by = | followed_by = {{ubl|[[Player's Handbook 2]] (2009) |[[Player's Handbook 3]] (2010)}} }} On June 6, 2008, the Fourth Edition ''Player's Handbook'', subtitled ''Arcane, Divine and Martial Heroes'', was released. It was originally announced that the 4th edition's three core rulebooks would be released over a three-month period,<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20071022013715/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dramp/20071019 Ampersand: Exciting News!]. Retrieved November 24, 2008.</ref> but the date changed after customer feedback revealed a majority preference among D&D customers to have all three core rulebooks released in the same month.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.enworld.org/showpost.php?s=b861f70f4f16a0a212ffd95c4aa5bbc5&p=3832899&postcount=26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110516181024/http://www.enworld.org/showpost.php?s=b861f70f4f16a0a212ffd95c4aa5bbc5&p=3832899&postcount=26|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 16, 2011|title=EN World – Morrus' D&D / 4th Edition / d20 News – View Single Post – Corebooks in June!: News from the Alliance Retailer Summit<!-- Bot generated title -->}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.enworld.org/showpost.php?s=b861f70f4f16a0a212ffd95c4aa5bbc5&p=3833168&postcount=32|title=EN World – Morrus' D&D / 4th Edition / d20 News – View Single Post – Corebooks in June!: News from the Alliance Retailer Summit<!-- Bot generated title -->|access-date=2007-10-17|archive-date=2011-05-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110516181101/http://www.enworld.org/showpost.php?s=b861f70f4f16a0a212ffd95c4aa5bbc5&p=3833168&postcount=32|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>Slavicsek, Bill. "Ampersand: Exciting News!", ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon Magazine]]'', Published 2007-10-19, Wizards of the Coast [https://web.archive.org/web/20071022013715/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dramp/20071019 Wizards.com]</ref> The Fourth Edition ''Player's Handbook'' was designed by [[Rob Heinsoo]], [[Andy Collins (game designer)|Andy Collins]], and [[James Wyatt (game designer)|James Wyatt]]. The front cover illustration was by [[Wayne Reynolds]] and the back cover illustration was by Dan Scott. The first ''Player's Handbook'' includes eight classes: cleric, fighter, paladin, ranger, rogue, warlock, warlord, and wizard, and eight races: dragonborn, dwarf, eladrin, elf, human, half-elf, halfling, and tiefling. The warlock and warlord classes, and the dragonborn and tiefling races, represented new additions to the core rules, while the book left out previous core elements such as the monk and bard classes and the gnome and half-orc races. Wizards of the Coast emphasized that those elements would be coming in subsequent ''Player's Handbooks'' and would be considered to be as central to the game as those in the first book. [[Shannon Appelcline]] highlighted that the omission of some classic character classes and races was considered controversial – "the designers later said that they regretted not saying that the first ''Player's Handbook'' was just a starting place for D&D 4e" as "more races and classes would appear in the years to come".<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |last=Appelcline |first=Shannon |author-link=Shannon Appelcline |title=Player's Handbook (4e): Product History |url=https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/161671/player-s-handbook-4e |access-date=August 29, 2024 |website=[[DriveThruRPG]] |archive-date=August 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240830033406/https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/161671/player-s-handbook-4e |url-status=live }}</ref> Appelcline opined that the ''Player's Handbook'' (2008) was notable for being "the most complete player's rulebook ever produced for" ''Dungeons & Dragons'' since it contained "all the character creation rules", "all the other core rules" and "first time ever it included magic items".<ref name=":13" /> He explained that one of the 4th Edition goals was "moving the game away from being a simulation and toward being a more cinematic gaming experience – something that would allow players to simply reskin their character fluff without it changing the game itself" and so player character classes saw "the biggest revamp".<ref name=":13" /> He highlighted that fewer roleplaying aspects were codified while the gameplay mechanics were "more focused on combat than in previous editions" making battle maps very important; the healing surge mechanic reflected the importance of combat while "spells and other abilities that weren't combat-oriented either disappeared or were revamped".<ref name=":13" /> The 4th edition ''[[Player's Handbook 2]]'', subtitled ''Arcane, Divine and Primal Heroes'',<ref name="PH2 product page" /> was released on March 17, 2009.<ref name="PH2 product page">{{cite web|url=http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=products/dndacc/9780786950164|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080630052117/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=products/dndacc/9780786950164|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 30, 2008|title=Contents|work=Player's Handbook 2|publisher=[[Wizards of the Coast]]|access-date=2011-10-05|last1=Crawford|first1=Jeremy|author-link1=Jeremy Crawford|last2=Mearls|first2=Mike|author-link2=Mike Mearls|last3=Wyatt|first3=James|author-link3=James Wyatt (game designer)}}</ref> The ''Player's Handbook 2'' includes eight classes: the avenger, [[barbarian (Dungeons & Dragons)|barbarian]], bard, druid, invoker, [[shaman (Dungeons & Dragons)|shaman]], [[sorcerer (Dungeons & Dragons)|sorcerer]], and warden, and five races: the deva, [[gnome (Dungeons & Dragons)|gnome]], goliath, half-orc, and [[shifter (Eberron)|shifter]].<!--ALL races and classes are confirmed in the next reference!--><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wizards.com/dnd/files/excerpts/excerpt_ph2_toc.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090602224732/http://www.wizards.com/dnd/files/excerpts/excerpt_ph2_toc.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 2, 2009|title=Contents|work=Player's Handbook 2 excerpts|publisher=[[Wizards of the Coast]]|access-date=2009-03-06|last1=Crawford|first1=Jeremy|author-link1=Jeremy Crawford|last2=Mearls|first2=Mike|author-link2=Mike Mearls|last3=Wyatt|first3=James|author-link3=James Wyatt}}</ref> The book reached No. 28 on ''[[USA Today]]''{{'}}s bestseller list the week of March 26, 2009 and No. 14 on the ''[[Wall Street Journal]]''{{'}}s non-fiction bestseller list a week later.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1A1-D975SMIG0.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328181600/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1A1-D975SMIG0.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=March 28, 2015 | title=BC-Best-sellers-Books-USA Today | work=[[USA Today]] | publisher=The Associated Press | date=March 26, 2009 | access-date=May 29, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1A1-D97AFJKO0.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328181602/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1A1-D97AFJKO0.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=March 28, 2015 | title=BC-Best-sellers-Books-WSJ | work=[[Wall Street Journal]] | agency=[[The Associated Press]] | date=April 2, 2009 | access-date=May 29, 2013}}</ref> A third book in the series, ''[[Player's Handbook 3]]'', subtitled ''Psionic, Divine and Primal Heroes'', was released on March 16, 2010. The book was designed by [[Mike Mearls]], [[Bruce R. Cordell]], and [[Robert J. Schwalb]], and featured cover art by [[Michael Komarck]]. It includes six classes: ardent, battlemind, monk, [[psionics (Dungeons & Dragons)#Psion / Psionicist|psion]], runepriest, and seeker,<ref>Heinsoo, Rob. (2009-11-05) [https://web.archive.org/web/20090514123447/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20090511 Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game Official Home Page – Article (Playtest: Player's Handbook 3, The Monk)]. Wizards.com. Retrieved on 2011-02-20.</ref><ref>Cordell, Bruce R.. (2009-07-07) [https://web.archive.org/web/20090709131853/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20090707 Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game Official Home Page – Article (Debut: Player's Handbook 3, The Psion)]. Wizards.com. Retrieved on 2011-02-20.</ref><ref>Schwalb, Robert J.. (2009-10-06) [https://web.archive.org/web/20091010121714/http://www.wizards.com/DnD/Article.aspx?x=dnd/drfe/20091006 Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game Official Home Page – Article (The Seeker)]. Wizards.com. Retrieved on 2011-02-20.</ref> along with four races: wilden,<ref>Wyatt, James. (2009-04-24) [https://web.archive.org/web/20090427072512/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20090420 Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game Official Home Page – Article (Playtest: Player's Handbook 3, The Wilden)]. Wizards.com. Retrieved on 2011-02-20.</ref> the [[Minotaur (Dungeons & Dragons)|minotaur]], [[githzerai]],<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20091001063522/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20090804 Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game Official Home Page – Article (Debut: Player's Handbook 3, Githzerai)]. Wizards.com. Retrieved on 2011-02-20.</ref> and shardminds. The PHB3 also includes new multi-classing rules for hybrid characters.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20090409064753/http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20090406 Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game Official Home Page – Article (Playtest: Player's Handbook 3, Hybrid Characters)]. Wizards.com. Retrieved on 2011-02-20.</ref> ===Reception=== <!-- Reviews that need to be added: * [http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=6944 Pyramid, Steve Jackson Games] * [http://www.sjgames.com/pyramid/sample.html?id=6945 Pyramid, Steve Jackson Games] --> John Baichtal of ''[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]'' highlighted that he liked the various character changes included in the ''Player's Handbook'' (2008) – "a lot of people have been talking about how MMPORGs have influenced D&D, particularly toward making advancement more fun. There are cool new powers at nearly every level, and all the classes are equally balanced".<ref name=":10">{{Cite magazine |last=Baichtal |first=John |date=July 19, 2008 |title=GeekDad Review: D&D 4th Edition (part 1 of 3) |url=https://www.wired.com/2008/07/geekdad-revie-1-6/ |access-date=August 29, 2024 |magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] |language=en-US |issn=1059-1028}}</ref> He commented that the shift between 3.5 and 4th Edition is "as profound as between, say, 1st Edition AD&D and 3.5".<ref name=":10" /> He also liked the healing surge ability the sourcebook introduced as it allows player characters (PCs) "to be more adventurous and daring".<ref name=":10" /> However, he "didn't like" how various classes and races (such as bard, barbarian, druid, monk, gnome, and half-orc) were left out of the ''Player's Handbook'' (2008). Baichtal opined that 4th Edition "certainly isn't a token update to sell more books" with "thoughtful" changes and an "easy start that makes newbie PCs tough enough to take care of business".<ref name=":10" /> ==''Dungeons & Dragons'' 5th edition <span class="anchor" id="Dungeons_&_Dragons_5th_Edition"></span>== {{See also|Editions of Dungeons & Dragons#Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition|Character class (Dungeons & Dragons)#D&D 5th edition}} {{Infobox Dungeons & Dragons module | module_title = Player's Handbook (2014) | module_image = Player's Handbook, 2014 standard print cover.png | image_caption = Cover art by [[Tyler Jacobson]] | module_rules = [[Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition]], 2014 version | module_lead_designers = [[Jeremy Crawford]] | module_authors = {{ubl |'''(Rules Development)''' |[[Rodney Thompson]], Peter Lee |'''(Writing)''' |[[James Wyatt (game designer)|James Wyatt]], [[Robert J. Schwalb]], [[Bruce Cordell|Bruce R. Cordell]]}} | module_first_published = August 19, 2014 | pages = 320 | isbn = 978-0-7869-6560-1 }} The 5th Edition ''Player's Handbook'' was released on August 19, 2014 by [[Wizards of the Coast]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://dnd.wizards.com//products/rpg_playershandbook|title=Player's Handbook|website=D&D Official | Dungeons & Dragons|access-date=2023-02-13|archive-date=2023-02-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213131434/https://dnd.wizards.com/products/rpg_playershandbook|url-status=dead}}</ref> The ''Player's Handbook'' contains the basic rules of the 5e system, the base classes and races, and character customization options.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.blackgate.com/2014/08/31/dnd5eoverview/ | title=Dungeons & Dragons Player's Handbook 5th Edition: Character Options & Rules Overview – Black Gate | date=31 August 2014 | access-date=3 September 2016 | archive-date=21 September 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921041019/https://www.blackgate.com/2014/08/31/dnd5eoverview/ | url-status=live }}</ref> The cover art by [[Tyler Jacobson]] features [[King Snurre]], from ''The Hall of the Fire Giant King'' (1978) adventure module, looming over two heroes engaged in battle with him.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=LaSala |first=Jeff |date=May 21, 2014 |title=What to Expect From the Forthcoming Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition |url=https://reactormag.com/dungeons-and-dragons-fifth-edition-preview/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[Tor.com]] |language=en-US |archive-date=August 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240830033535/https://reactormag.com/dungeons-and-dragons-fifth-edition-preview/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Jacobson explained that "the angle is so extreme in order to convey a desperate battle again such a giant foe. I wanted to put the female hero in a pose that seemed very 'last ditch effort' to cast a spell and possibly take him out [...]. But mainly I just wanted a composition that was very action-packed".<ref name=":7" /> He also highlighted the blue magic "about to be cast" by the heroine as the focal point with the bright color contrasting "the hot colors everywhere else in the image".<ref name=":7" /> Wizards of the Coast rereleased the three core rulebooks as part of a bundled boxset, titled ''Dungeons & Dragons Core Rulebooks Gift Set'', in November 2018;<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |last=Bunge |first=Nicole |date=July 17, 2018 |title='Dungeons & Dragons Core Rulebooks Gift Set' |url=https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/40880/dungeons-dragons-core-rulebooks-gift-set |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[ICv2]] |language=en |archive-date=August 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240830033523/https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/40880/dungeons-dragons-core-rulebooks-gift-set |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Zambrano |first=J. R. |date=October 1, 2018 |title=D&D: Updated Release dates For ABCs & 123s, And Core Collector's Set |url=https://www.belloflostsouls.net/2018/10/dd-updated-release-dates-for-abcs-123s-and-core-collectors-set.html |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=Bell of Lost Souls |language=en |archive-date=December 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221210094252/https://www.belloflostsouls.net/2018/10/dd-updated-release-dates-for-abcs-123s-and-core-collectors-set.html |url-status=live }}</ref> the rulebooks contain the [[Erratum|errata]] for the edition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hall |first=Charlie |date=November 9, 2020 |title=Dungeons & Dragons core rulebook set discounted nearly 50% on Amazon |url=https://www.polygon.com/deals/2020/11/9/21556484/dungeons-dragons-starter-set-amazon-discount-sale-price |access-date=August 29, 2024 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=August 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829054938/https://www.polygon.com/deals/2020/11/9/21556484/dungeons-dragons-starter-set-amazon-discount-sale-price |url-status=live }}</ref> An alternative edition of the set, with new cover art by Hydro74, was only available through local game stores.<ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Frye |first=Brendan |date=January 22, 2019 |title=Dungeons and Dragons Core Rules Gift Set - Limited Edition (Tabletop) Review - CGMagazine |url=https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/tabletop/dungeons-and-dragons-tabletop-review/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=CG Magazine |language=en-CA |archive-date=August 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240830033416/https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/tabletop/dungeons-and-dragons-tabletop-review/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Gavin Sheehan for ''[[Bleeding Cool]]'' highlighted that the alternative cover art of the ''Player's Handbook'' features "the 'welcoming' face of King Snurre, iron helmet and all looking at you like you don't belong here and why shouldn't he put you down? I love the design of his helmet cast in a slightly deeper red with orange eyes and bear shining underneath".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sheehan |first=Gavin |date=April 21, 2019 |title=Review: Dungeons & Dragons Core Rules Gift Set |url=https://bleedingcool.com/games/review-dungeons-dragons-core-rules-gift-set/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[Bleeding Cool]] |language=en |archive-date=January 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126064248/https://bleedingcool.com/games/review-dungeons-dragons-core-rules-gift-set/ |url-status=live }}</ref> === Reception === In ''[[Publishers Weekly]]'s'' "Best-selling Books Week Ending September 1, 2014", ''Player's Handbook'' was #1 in "Hardcover Nonfiction" and sold 22,090 units;<ref>{{Cite news |title=Publishers Weekly Bestseller Lists {{!}} Back Issue 09/01/2014 |url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140901.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624093131/https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140901.html |archive-date=2020-06-24 |access-date=2020-06-21 |work=Publishers Weekly |language=en}}</ref> it was #7 on the overall bestseller list.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 29, 2014 |title=This Week's Bestsellers: September 1, 2014 |url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/bookselling/article/63853-this-week-s-bestsellers-september-1-2014.html |access-date=September 20, 2024 |website=[[Publishers Weekly]] |language=en}}</ref> It remained in the "Hardcover Nonfiction" top 25 for four weeks.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Publishers Weekly Bestseller Lists {{!}} Back Issue 09/08/2014 |url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140908.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030804/https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140908.html |archive-date=2024-08-29 |access-date=2020-06-21 |website=Publishers Weekly}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Publishers Weekly Bestseller Lists {{!}} Back Issue 09/15/2014 |url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140915.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622092043/https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140915.html |archive-date=2020-06-22 |access-date=2020-06-21 |website=Publishers Weekly}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Publishers Weekly Bestseller Lists {{!}} Back Issue 09/22/2014 |url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140922.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621173454/https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/nielsen/HardcoverNonfiction/20140922.html |archive-date=2020-06-21 |access-date=2020-06-21 |website=Publishers Weekly}}</ref> The ''Player's Handbook'' was the top selling book at Amazon on its release day.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.blackgate.com/2014/08/22/dungeons-dragons-players-handbook-now-on-sale/ | title=Dungeons & Dragons Player's Handbook Now on Sale – Black Gate | date=22 August 2014 | access-date=28 October 2023 | archive-date=29 August 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030849/https://www.blackgate.com/2014/08/22/dungeons-dragons-players-handbook-now-on-sale/ | url-status=live }}</ref> The 5th edition ''Player's Handbook'' won the 2015 [[Origins Award]] for Best Role Playing Game and Fan Favorite Role Playing Game.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://icv2.com/articles/news/view/31740/2015-origins-award-winners|title=2015 Origins Award Winners|access-date=2020-05-08|archive-date=2015-10-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151009101851/http://icv2.com/articles/news/view/31740/2015-origins-award-winners|url-status=live}}</ref> The book won three 2015 gold [[ENnie Awards]], "Best Game", "Best Rules", "Product of the Year", and one silver award for "Best Writing" by [[Jeremy Crawford]], [[James Wyatt (game designer)|James Wyatt]], [[Robert J. Schwalb]], and [[Bruce Cordell|Bruce R. Cordell]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2015-08-12|title=2015 ENnie Award Winners|url=http://www.ennie-awards.com/blog/about-us/2014-ennie-awards-nominees/2015-ennie-award-winners/|access-date=2020-06-21|website=ENNIE Awards|language=en|archive-date=2019-03-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190308125829/http://www.ennie-awards.com/blog/about-us/2014-ennie-awards-nominees/2015-ennie-award-winners/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Jeff LaSala ''of [[Tor.com]]'' commented that "there's no denying" the "visual appeal" of the covers for the 5th Edition sourcebooks and that he was "extremely satisfied to see the ''Player's Handbook''<nowiki/>'s cover at last give us an action heroine in sensible clothing—quite a contrast to last edition's ''PHB'' cover. Whatever anyone thinks of the overall format and design of these books, that's a huge win".<ref name=":7" /> Andrew Zimmerman Jones of ''[[Black Gate (magazine)|Black Gate]]'' commented on the 5th edition ''Player's Handbook'': "Their rules light approach make it a natural system for old fans to bring new players into the hobby, but even with this initial offering there are enough customization options to keep old school gamers happy playing with it."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.blackgate.com/2014/08/31/dnd5eoverview/|title=Dungeons & Dragons Player's Handbook 5th Edition: Character Options & Rules Overview – Black Gate|website=blackgate.com|date=31 August 2014|access-date=3 September 2016|archive-date=29 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030854/https://www.blackgate.com/2014/08/31/dnd5eoverview/|url-status=live}}</ref> Chuck Francisco of ''Mania.com'' commented: "While it was an easily accessible system, 4e left a lukewarm feeling with my gaming group. There was something too generic and uninteresting about player characters which pervaded the system, especially in the wake of 3.5e (which some felt provided too many options so as to be confusing). In the process, 4e characters lost an indescribable crunchy feeling, but I'm pleased to say that it's been brought back for the newest installment of this venerated table top series."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/dungeons-dragons-5th-edition-players-handbook-review_article_140311.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325051125/http://www.mania.com/dungeons-dragons-5th-edition-players-handbook-review_article_140311.html|archive-date=March 25, 2015|date=August 15, 2014|title=Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition Player's Handbook Review}}</ref> In comparing the 2014 ''Player's Handbook'' to the 1978 ''Player's Handbook'', James Floyd Kelly of [[GeekDad]] viewed the ''AD&D'' sourcebook as both "outstandingly fun" and "a product of its time" while "this new 5th edition feels streamlined... and much more accessible".<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Kelly |first=James Floyd |date=August 18, 2014 |title=A Tale of Two Handbooks — 1978 AD&D and 2014 D&D |url=https://geekdad.com/2014/08/a-tale-of-two-handbooks/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[GeekDad]] |language=en-US |archive-date=April 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404232245/https://geekdad.com/2014/08/a-tale-of-two-handbooks/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Kelly commented that "the writing is much more polished. The artwork more inspiring. And the overall look and feel (with the layout of the graphical elements and charts and the organization of material) is appealing both visually and for comprehension. New gamers are going to find this new material fun to read – at no time did I feel bogged down as I was reading".<ref name=":5" /> Henry Glasheen of ''[[SLUG Magazine]]'' highlighted getting "lost in the artwork" of the 2014 ''Player's Handbook'' as the new edition's "art has the patient beauty of old-school high adventure, amped up with a distinctly modern aesthetic" and "everything has this magnificent watercolor texture that, while obviously digital in most cases, gives each piece a familiar, knowable feel".<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |last=Glasheen |first=Henry |date=February 12, 2015 |title=Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition: Player's Handbook - SLUG Magazine |url=https://www.slugmag.com/community/reviews/game-reviews/dungeons-and-dragons-fifth-edition-players-handbook-review/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[SLUG Magazine]] |language=en-US |archive-date=September 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923134846/https://www.slugmag.com/community/reviews/game-reviews/dungeons-and-dragons-fifth-edition-players-handbook-review/ |url-status=live }}</ref> John Farrell at ''Gaming Trend'' called the 2014 ''Player's Handbook'' artwork "both iconic and evocative" although "of questionable quality in very few places".<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Farrell |first=John |date=September 23, 2015 |title=Return of the King-Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition Player's Handbook Review |url=https://gamingtrend.com/feature/reviews/return-of-the-king-dungeons-and-dragons-5th-edition-players-handbook-review/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=Gaming Trend |language=en-US |archive-date=September 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922181815/https://gamingtrend.com/feature/reviews/return-of-the-king-dungeons-and-dragons-5th-edition-players-handbook-review/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Glasheen enjoyed the character creation process including the new Background system and thought making the Feats system optional "de-clutters the game and removes the incentive to try and break system mechanics".<ref name=":3" /> Similarly, Farrell commented that "character creation is fast and easy, without an overload of options at the outset" and with a simpler ruleset, this edition "has found substantial yet unobtrusive ways to bring your thoughts to roleplay without enforcing rigid methods of keeping in line with an archetype".<ref name=":4" /> In terms of gameplay, Farrell highlighted the "simplicity of the actions" which makes "combat more fast-paced" and praised the bounded accuracy of the game. Farrell thought that the "game is fun, simply put, and guaranteed to pull new players into the fold".<ref name=":4" /> Glasheen commented that while the game is less complex than previous editions, 5th Edition "is easily my favorite, ranking even higher than D&D 3.5, my first love in D&D".<ref name=":3" /> However, those looking for "a hardcore RPG to test your skills at optimizing characters and crunching numbers" are probably not going to enjoy 5th Edition as much since the focus "is heavy on story and keeps the mechanics fast and loose".<ref name=":3" /> === 2024 revision === {{See also|Editions of Dungeons & Dragons#2024 revision of 5th Edition}} {{Infobox Dungeons & Dragons module | module_title = Player's Handbook (2024) | module_image = Player's Handbook, 2024 standard print cover.png | image_caption = Cover art by [[Tyler Jacobson]] | module_rules = [[Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition]], 2024 version | module_lead_designers = [[Jeremy Crawford]] | module_authors = [[Chris Perkins (game designer)|Christopher Perkins]], Ben Petrisor, [[F. Wesley Schneider]], [[Ray Winninger]], [[James Wyatt (game designer)|James Wyatt]] | module_first_published = September 17, 2024 | pages = 302 | isbn = 9780786969517 }} The [[Backward compatibility|backward compatible]] ''Player's Handbook'' (2024), as part of the [[One D&D|2024 revision]] to the 5th Edition ruleset, updates preexisting player options while introducing new content to the game.<ref name="PC Gamer on PAX Unplugged 2023">{{Cite news |last=Macgregor |first=Jody |date=December 9, 2023 |title=D&D's Revised Player's Handbook 'will be the biggest Player's Handbook that D&D has ever had', and like all the Revised core books will be compatible with the current edition |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/dandds-revised-players-handbook-will-be-the-biggest-players-handbook-that-dandd-has-ever-had-and-like-all-the-revised-core-books-will-be-compatible-with-the-current-edition/ |access-date=December 10, 2023 |work=PC Gamer |language=en |archive-date=August 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030804/https://www.pcgamer.com/dandds-revised-players-handbook-will-be-the-biggest-players-handbook-that-dandd-has-ever-had-and-like-all-the-revised-core-books-will-be-compatible-with-the-current-edition/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Hoffer PHB class changes">{{Cite web |last=Hoffer |first=Christian |date=June 26, 2024 |title=Dungeons & Dragons Confirms Big Change to Classes in 2024 Core Rulebooks |url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-dragons-subclasses-3rd-level-2024-core-rulebooks/ |access-date=August 27, 2024 |website=[[ComicBook.com]] |language=en |archive-date=August 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030846/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-dragons-subclasses-3rd-level-2024-core-rulebooks/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="St Leger PHB class changes">{{Cite web |last=St Leger |first=Henry |date=August 5, 2024 |title=D&D 2024 classes are well balanced – but have they lost their soul? |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/tabletop-gaming/dandd-2024-classes-are-well-balanced-but-have-they-lost-their-soul/ |access-date=August 27, 2024 |website=[[GamesRadar+]] |language=en |archive-date=August 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823044406/https://www.gamesradar.com/tabletop-gaming/dandd-2024-classes-are-well-balanced-but-have-they-lost-their-soul/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=September 3, 2024 |title=Updates in the Player's Handbook (2024) |url=https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1810-updates-in-the-players-handbook-2024 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240909202617/https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1810-updates-in-the-players-handbook-2024 |archive-date=September 9, 2024 |access-date=September 9, 2024 |website=[[D&D Beyond]] |language=en-us |type=[[Press release]]}}</ref> The sourcebook was released globally on September 17, 2024. Wizards of the Coast released a limited number of copies for sale six weeks early at [[Gen Con]]; local game stores in the [[Wizards Play Network]] were allowed to release the ''Player's Handbook'' for [[early access]] on September 3, 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dinsdale |first=Ryan |date=2024-07-19 |title=Dungeons & Dragons 2024 Player's Handbook Releasing 6 Weeks Early at Gen Con |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/dungeons-dragons-2024-players-handbook-releasing-6-weeks-early-at-gen-con |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=2024-08-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823105443/https://www.ign.com/articles/dungeons-dragons-2024-players-handbook-releasing-6-weeks-early-at-gen-con |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=July 19, 2024 |title=Wizards of the Coast Announces Gen Con 2024 'D&D: 2024 Player's Handbook' |url=https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/57391/wizards-coast-announces-gen-con-2024-d-d-2024-players-handbook |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=[[ICv2]] |language=en |archive-date=2024-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030856/https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/57391/wizards-coast-announces-gen-con-2024-d-d-2024-players-handbook |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Galvis |first=Michael |date=March 18, 2024 |title=Local Game Store Early Access Program for Major D&D Book Releases |url=https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1684-local-game-store-early-access-program-for-major-d |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=[[D&D Beyond]] |language=en-us |type=Press release |archive-date=2024-05-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240511051554/https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1684-local-game-store-early-access-program-for-major-d |url-status=live }}</ref> The digital edition on [[D&D Beyond]] also came with early access for subscribers who pre-ordered.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Galvis |first=Michael |date=June 28, 2024 |title=Preorder Bonuses for the 2024 Player's Handbook and More! |url=https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1760-preorder-bonuses-for-the-2024-players-handbook-and |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[D&D Beyond]] |language=en-us |type=[[Press release]] |archive-date=June 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628232853/https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1760-preorder-bonuses-for-the-2024-players-handbook-and |url-status=live }}</ref> Wizards of the Coast also released an alternate cover edition which will be available only in local game stores;<ref name="Polygon 2024 alt cover art" /> shipping delays pushed the release of the alternate cover outside of North America to October 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 19, 2024 |title=Delays Outside North America for 2024 Player's Handbook Alternate Cover |url=https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1800-delays-outside-north-america-for-2024-players |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[D&D Beyond]] |language=en-us |type=[[Press release]] |archive-date=August 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819203641/https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1800-delays-outside-north-america-for-2024-players |url-status=live }}</ref> The standard edition features cover art by [[Tyler Jacobson]] and the alternate cover features art by Wylie Beckert.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Miller |first=Matt |date=May 14, 2024 |title=The Art Of The New Dungeons & Dragons |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/14/the-art-of-the-new-dungeons-dragons |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240516160625/https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/14/the-art-of-the-new-dungeons-dragons |archive-date=May 16, 2024 |access-date=August 28, 2024 |magazine=[[Game Informer]]}}</ref><ref name="Polygon 2024 alt cover art">{{Cite web |last=Hall |first=Charlie |date=May 16, 2024 |title=Dungeons & Dragons' collectible alt art Player's Handbook has immaculate vibes |url=https://www.polygon.com/24156680/dnd-dunegons-dragons-alt-art-phb-reveal-release-date-price |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=August 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030845/https://www.polygon.com/24156680/dnd-dunegons-dragons-alt-art-phb-reveal-release-date-price |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Jarvis |first=Matt |date=May 14, 2024 |title=Here's what the cover of Dungeons & Dragons' 2024 Player's Handbook looks like |url=https://www.dicebreaker.com/series/dungeons-and-dragons/news/dnd-2024-players-handbook-artwork-revealed |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[Dicebreaker]] |language=en |archive-date=August 15, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815145805/https://www.dicebreaker.com/series/dungeons-and-dragons/news/dnd-2024-players-handbook-artwork-revealed |url-status=live }}</ref> Alex Meehan, for ''[[Dicebreaker]]'', highlighted that the standard edition features a [[Party (role-playing games)|party]] of adventurers with "a friendly golden dragon standing behind them" and the "artwork strongly implies that the group is in the midst of a battle".<ref name="Dicebreaker 2024 cover art">{{Cite web |last=Meehan |first=Alex |date=May 20, 2024 |title=Alternate cover for Dungeons & Dragons' Player's Handbook radiates a wholesome vibe for players who want to D&D and chill |url=https://www.dicebreaker.com/series/dungeons-and-dragons/news/dnd-players-handbook-alternate |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[Dicebreaker]] |language=en |archive-date=August 2, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802093558/https://www.dicebreaker.com/series/dungeons-and-dragons/news/dnd-players-handbook-alternate |url-status=live }}</ref> In comparing the cover of the 2024 ''Player's Handbook'' to the 2014 ''Player's Handbook'', Matt Bassil of ''[[Wargamer (website)|Wargamer]]'' commented that "the old cover is an obvious power fantasy: look how powerful you can become and the cool things you can fight" while the new cover has a different focus: "look at the variety of DnD races and classes you can play, and the cool people you'll be hanging out with".<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last=Bassil |first=Matt |date=May 15, 2024 |title=New DnD Player's Handbook cover shows how the game has changed |url=https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/players-handbook-new-cover-changing |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[Wargamer (website)|Wargamer]] |language=en-US |archive-date=August 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829044137/https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/players-handbook-new-cover-changing |url-status=live }}</ref> Bassil thought it was "interesting that Wizards" chose to highlight the group dynamic on the 2024 cover, which "wasn't such a priority in 2014".<ref name=":9" /> He also saw it as a clear attempt to "champion diversity" and convey that ''Dungeons & Dragons'' "is for everyone".<ref name=":9" /> Meehan commented that the 2024 alternate cover "gives off a very different vibe" with the party in cave "sharing a pot of tea" and "included within this serene tea party is a golden dragon – somewhat linking things back to the standard cover – who grasps a normal-sized tea cup in one massive paw, with the party's rogue balancing on part of the dragon's body above".<ref name="Dicebreaker 2024 cover art" /> Josh Herman, head of art at Wizards of the Coast, commented that they liked making a "not so aggressive" cover which is "a sweeter, calmer version of" the standard cover.<ref name="Polygon 2024 alt cover art" /> Herman explained that combat is a "huge pillar of D&D, but sometimes a lot of what D&D is, is just storytelling" and the alternate cover reflects the camp downtime the party has between adventures.<ref name="Polygon 2024 alt cover art" /> ==== Reception ==== Wizards of the Coast announced that the ''Player's Handbook'' (2024) was "the fastest-selling ''Dungeons & Dragons'' product ever" and surpassed ''[[Tasha's Cauldron of Everything|Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything]]'' (2020) to become "the biggest product launch in the game's 50-year history".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dohm-Sanchez |first=Jeffrey |date=September 25, 2024 |title='2024 Player's Handbook' Becomes Fastest-Selling 'Dungeons & Dragons' Product Ever |url=https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/57876/2024-players-handbook-becomes-fastest-selling-dungeons-dragons-product-ever |access-date=September 26, 2024 |website=[[ICv2]] |language=en}}</ref> Scott Thorne of ''[[ICv2]]'' noted that data service [[BookScan]], which publishes "weekly sales figures of trade book sales in the U.S. from most chain retailers and over 800 independent booksellers" and covers "about 85% of the market", reported "a total of 3,773 copies sold".<ref name=":18">{{Cite web |last=Thorne |first=Scott |date=September 30, 2024 |title=Rolling for Initiative – 3,773 Copies Sold? |url=https://icv2.com/articles/columns/view/57905/rolling-initiative-3-773-copies-sold |access-date=September 30, 2024 |website=[[ICv2]] |language=en}}</ref> Thorne viewed BookScan as an accurate accounting of bookstore sales, however, not an accurate accounting of every sale as very few hobby game stores report their sales to BookScan and BookScan's figures do not appear to include the 3,000 copies sold at GenCon.<ref name=":18" /> Benjamin Abbott of ''[[GamesRadar+]]'' commented that "with this 2024 update, the ''Player's Handbook'' is finally as lavish as you'd expect" and that in the 2014 edition, "too much was left to your imagination. Class pages, some of the most used in the game, were frequently limited to one or two illustrations and decorative elements apiece, while the spell section was an unrelenting wall of text".<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Abbott |first=Benjamin |date=August 20, 2024 |title=Forget classes, my favorite thing about the new D&D Player's Handbook is its art |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/tabletop-gaming/forget-classes-my-favorite-thing-about-the-dandd-2024-players-handbook-is-its-art/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[GamesRadar+]] |language=en |archive-date=August 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030845/https://www.gamesradar.com/tabletop-gaming/forget-classes-my-favorite-thing-about-the-dandd-2024-players-handbook-is-its-art/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Abbott highlighted that "alongside a much grander piece of hero art for each class (which proudly takes up a whole page this time), each subclass also gets an evocative illustration", every character background has "a landscape or scene that begs you to imagine your character there", and there is "artwork displaying how a spell works every page or two – and it's actually quite compelling, showing off how magic works".<ref name=":0" /> Beside the art, Abbott thought "in direct contrast to previous editions where sections bled together", the 2024 edition has a more sensible layout design and emphasizes reader accessibility.<ref name=":0" /> Joshua Rivera, in a pre-release review for ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]'', thought that the 2014 ''Player's Handbook'' was "clearly built with the assumption that the reader arrives with some level of buy-in or, preferably, someone to guide them" while the 2024 ''Player's Handbook'' is a "modern and clean reworking of the first book every D&D player reads" and is far more accessible than its predecessor.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Rivera |first=Joshua |date=August 2, 2024 |title=The new D&D Player's Handbook feels like a real game-changer |url=https://www.polygon.com/24210741/dnd-players-handbook-2024-phb-impressions |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |language=en-US |archive-date=August 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240824021019/https://www.polygon.com/24210741/dnd-players-handbook-2024-phb-impressions |url-status=live }}</ref> He highlighted the thoughtful layout and that while "rules are explained when necessary", more complicated aspects "are relegated to a glossary in the appendices".<ref name=":6" /> Rivera commented that this updated sourcebook is "better suited to how the game is played in 2024" and "feels well-planned in a way previous books haven't, offering an organic path through the game's concepts and ideas".<ref name=":6" /> Following the release, Charlie Hall of ''Polygon'' also emphasized the "user-friendly" aspects of the sourcebook which he thought "seamlessly" onboards players – "lead graphic designer Matt Cole and art director Emi Tanji should be given medals, because the very shape of the brand feels suddenly glossy, modern, and new".<ref name=":16">{{Cite web |last=Hall |first=Charlie |date=2024-09-17 |title=The new D&D Player's Handbook is a treasure, and we may never see its equal again |url=https://www.polygon.com/dnd-dungeons-dragons/451969/new-players-handbook-review-2024 |access-date=2024-09-24 |website=Polygon |language=en-US}}</ref> However, Hall criticized the digital edition on [[D&D Beyond]] as the platform is "cluttered and complex, so filled with speed bumps and interruptions"; while he recommended purchasing the physical sourcebook, Hall also recommended avoiding D&D Beyond "unless you know exactly what you're doing".<ref name=":16" /> Chase Carter of ''Rascal'' commented that while he "ultimately" echoed Hall's "plea to buy a physical copy of the 2024 ''Player's Handbook''", and to do so from the local community if you're purchasing the new sourcebook, he also emphasized that he "can't recommend anyone purchase D&D 2024's ''Player's Handbook''".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web |last=Carter |first=Chase |date=September 19, 2024 |title=I can't recommend purchasing the D&D 2024 Player's Handbook |url=https://www.rascal.news/i-cant-recommend-purchasing-the-d-d-2024-players-handbook/ |url-access=subscription |access-date=September 24, 2024 |website=Rascal News |language=en}}</ref> He criticized Wizards of the Coast for releasing the ''Player's Handbook'' months before the other two core rulebooks in a move "that's simply prioritized towards the largest population of wallets" and opined that you can't truly review the 2024 update with only one core rulebook.<ref name=":17" /> Christian Hoffer of ''[[ComicBook.com]]'' viewed the 2024 ''Player's Handbook'' as "an improvement from its 2014 predecessor in almost every single way" since the sourcebook "is more accessible, has better art, a better layout, and has clearer rules".<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Hoffer |first=Christian |date=August 1, 2024 |title=Dungeons & Dragons 2024 Player's Handbook Review: Improved But Safe 5th Edition |url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-dragons-2024-players-handbook-review/ |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[ComicBook.com]] |language=en |archive-date=August 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829030956/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-dragons-2024-players-handbook-review/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Hoffer highlighted that the update "played it safe" and that the sourcebook features many changes which "were either already implemented via different expansions or exist in the same design space as third-party material".<ref name=":1" /> Hoffer opined that "the designers should be acknowledged" for their work on improving the game, "however, nothing about the new ''Player's Handbook'' excites me as a veteran DM or makes me want to play ''Dungeons & Dragons'' more than I already did".<ref name=":1" /> Mollie Russell of ''Wargamer'' rated the 2024 ''Player's Handbook'' a 9 out 10 and commented that a close reading of the sourcebook shows a "complex web of small changes" but at a distance, while playing, "things still feel like fifth edition. The broader experience hasn't been innovated much, but on the bright side, that means it's just as fun to play as it was before".<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Russell |first=Mollie |date=August 1, 2024 |title=D&D 2024 Player's Handbook review - the future looks bright |url=https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/2024-players-handbook-review |access-date=August 28, 2024 |website=[[Wargamer (website)|Wargamer]] |language=en-US |archive-date=August 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823191646/https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/2024-players-handbook-review |url-status=live }}</ref> Russell thought that the sourcebook "loses a sense of place and character" in terms of world-building and there are some "issues with homogenisation", however, "the structure of the ''Player's Handbook'' is more logical, efficient, and beginner-friendly" and "most of the new rules you come across will delight rather than dismay".<ref name=":2" /> ==See also== {{portal|Dungeons & Dragons}} * [[Editions of Dungeons & Dragons|Editions of ''Dungeons & Dragons'']] * [[List of alternate Dungeons & Dragons classes|List of alternate ''Dungeons & Dragons'' classes]] {{clear}} ==References== {{reflist|2}} ==Further reading== * "Sage Advice", ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #148. * "Sage Advice", ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #149. * "Sage Advice", ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #157. {{D&D books}} {{D&D topics}} [[Category:1978 books]] [[Category:1989 books]] [[Category:2000 books]] [[Category:2003 books]] [[Category:2008 books]] [[Category:2014 books]] [[Category:Books by Gary Gygax]] [[Category:Dungeons & Dragons sourcebooks]] [[Category:ENnies winners]] [[Category:Handbooks and manuals]] [[Category:Origins Award winners]] [[Category:Role-playing game supplements introduced in 1978]] [[sv:Player's Handbook]]
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