Dungeons & Dragons is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in popularity, fueled by factors such as the show Stranger Things, the successful Honor Among Thieves film, and the explosive popularity of Baldur's Gate 3. This makes it an ideal time to delve into the world of tabletop roleplaying.
However, navigating the Fifth Edition (5E) of D&D can be challenging for newcomers, especially given the vast amount of third-party content available. This guide focuses primarily on official Wizards of the Coast publications, excluding the essential Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual (updated in 2024), assuming you've already acquired these foundational books. If not, acquire them first! You can find the latest editions linked below.
Player’s Handbook Core Rulebook
Dungeon Master’s Guide Core Rulebook
Monster Manual Core Rulebook
Here are our top recommendations for supplemental 5E D&D books in 2025:
Xanathar’s Guide to Everything (Sourcebook)
This invaluable sourcebook (2017) expands player options with numerous subclasses, racial feats, and spells, alongside helpful DM tools and optional rules. A must-have for players seeking diverse character options.
Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)
Similar to Xanathar's Guide, this sourcebook provides additional player options, class features, spells, and DM tools, including rules for sidekicks and environmental hazards. Essential for enhancing character diversity.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)
A compelling adventure focused on intrigue, social encounters, and political conflict within Waterdeep, offering multiple antagonists for replayability. A great alternative to dungeon-crawl heavy campaigns.
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)
This three-book bundle explores the Planescape setting, offering a detailed setting guide, new monsters, and a captivating adventure. A rich and rewarding experience for those seeking a unique D&D world.
Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)
A significant expansion to The Lost Mine of Phandelver, this adventure delves deeper into the mystery of magical obelisks, introducing cosmic horror elements and a nostalgic return to Phandalin.
Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)
This sourcebook presents the unique Eberron setting, featuring airships, floating castles, and the intriguing Dragonmarks. Offers a departure from the Forgotten Realms with opportunities for roleplaying and action.
Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)
Introduces the Dragonlance setting, focusing on large-scale combat encounters with dragons and the death knight Lord Soth.
Curse of Strahd (Adventure)
A gothic horror adventure featuring vampires and creepy encounters.
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)
A Feywild adventure with a carnival setting, emphasizing roleplaying and problem-solving beyond combat.
Note: While this guide primarily covers first-party content, notable third-party options include Strongholds and Followers, Flee, Mortals!, Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex, and Grim Hollow, each offering unique expansions to the game.
This list provides a solid starting point for expanding your D&D experience. What are your favorite D&D books? Let us know in the comments!
