When we think of barbarians in Dungeons & Dragons, we often imagine a fierce warrior wielding a massive axe or sword, raging into battle with reckless abandon. But the truth is, barbarians come in all shapes and sizes, with a variety of races and paths to choose from.
In this post, I want to explore the different types of barbarians you can play in D&D, and what makes each one unique.
The Many Faces of Barbarians
From the rage-filled Northmen of the frozen tundra to the wild and unpredictable Wildlings of the forest, barbarians can hail from any number of cultures and backgrounds.
Some barbarians are born into their roles, raised from a young age to be fierce warriors and defenders of their tribes. Others may have stumbled into their path, perhaps after a traumatic event or a mystical experience.
Races of Barbarians
D&D offers a wide range of races that can make excellent barbarians, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. For example:
* Half-orcs, with their mix of human and orcish blood, often make natural barbarians. Their strength, resilience, and combat prowess make them well-suited to the role.
* Goliaths, with their towering heights and incredible strength, can be formidable barbarians. Their rugged upbringing in the mountains also gives them a natural affinity for the wilderness.
* Even halflings, with their quickness and agility, can make effective barbarians. Their small size belies their fierce determination and combat skills.
Paths of Barbarians
Of course, race is only one aspect of a barbarian’s identity. Their path – the specific route they take to become a barbarian – is also crucial in shaping their abilities and playstyle.
Some barbarians follow a more traditional path, learning the ways of combat and warfare from their tribe or clan. Others may follow a more mystical path, tapping into ancient magic or communing with the spirits of the land.
Conclusion
Barbarians in D&D are far more than just mindless brutes. They are complex, multifaceted characters with rich backgrounds and motivations.
By exploring the different races and paths available to barbarians, we can create more nuanced and interesting characters, and add depth and variety to our D&D games.
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*Further reading: [D&D Barbarian Handbook](https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/classes/barbarian)*