Dungeons & Dragons is currently basking in what can only be described as a golden era. From the resurgence fueled by the cultural phenomenon of *Stranger Things* to the blockbuster success of the *Honor Among Thieves* movie, and from the proliferation of tabletop-focused podcasts and YouTube channels to the meteoric rise of *Baldur's Gate 3*, there has never been a more exciting time to dive into the world of D&D and start rolling for initiative.
However, for newcomers, navigating the extensive catalog of the Fifth Edition of Dungeons & Dragons (5E) can feel overwhelming, especially with the abundance of high-quality content from third-party creators. If you're new to the hobby and unsure where to begin, we've compiled a list of the best Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025. Additionally, you can explore our beginner's guide to D&D for more tips to get started.
AnswerSee ResultsFirst-party contentBefore we delve into our recommendations, a few important notes: This guide primarily focuses on first-party content, as the vast array of third-party options often caters to seasoned players looking to enhance their dungeon crawls. Additionally, we will not include the three fundamental books: **The Player's Handbook**, the **Dungeon Master's Guide**, and the **Monster Manual**. These essential texts received updates in 2024, and while they are crucial, we assume you'll want these basics first. You can find the latest versions of these core rulebooks below, or jump directly to our suggested sourcebooks.
### Player's Handbook Core Rulebook
12$49.99 at Amazon
### Dungeon Master's Guide Core Rulebook
7$49.99 at Amazon
### Monster Manual Core Rulebook
5$49.99 at Amazon### Xanathar's Guide to Everything (Sourcebook)
### Xanathar's Guide to Everything
10See it at Amazon
Arguably the most indispensable sourcebook since its release in 2017, Xanathar's Guide to Everything enriches the game with over 25 subclasses, 20 racial feats, and an array of new spells. It's a treasure trove for players seeking more options and includes valuable tools for game masters, such as trap-building guides and optional rules to enhance concepts from the core rulebooks. While it's more player-oriented, it's an essential addition for any group looking to diversify their gameplay with unique character builds, like Wizards skilled in War Magic, Paladins sworn to an Oath of Redemption, or Monks mastering the art of drunken fighting.
Tasha's Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)
### Tasha's Cauldron of Everything
5See it at Amazon
Similar to Xanathar's Guide, Tasha's Cauldron of Everything expands on player options and core rulebook ideas. It introduces optional class features for every class, a wealth of new spells, and innovative rules for game masters, including sidekicks, natural hazards, and supernatural environments. This sourcebook is vital for injecting diversity into your party and enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)
### Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
3See it at Amazon
One of the most engaging adventures published by Wizards of the Coast, Waterdeep: Dragon Heist is a roleplay-heavy quest filled with intrigue and deadly rivalries. Unlike many D&D adventures that focus on dungeon crawls and combat, this one emphasizes social encounters, political conflict, and subterfuge. The adventure kicks off with the party entangled in a bitter conflict between criminal factions, chasing after hidden riches within the city's shadows. With four possible antagonists that can be swapped by the game master, this adventure offers flexibility and replayability. If you enjoy this, consider its follow-up, Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage, which shifts the focus to dungeon exploration.
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)
### Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse
4See it at Amazon
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse brings to life one of D&D's most fascinating settings, the multiversal hub of the Forgotten Realms. This three-book bundle, unlike the less successful Spelljammer, is packed with detailed setting information, from landmarks to factions with intriguing philosophies. The monster manual, Morte's Planar Parade, offers diverse creatures for game masters to challenge players, and the adventure, Turn of Fortune's Wheel, takes the narrative to unexpected places. This bundle is a must-have for those eager to explore one of D&D's best settings.
Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)
### Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk
3See it at Amazon
An expansion to the beloved The Lost Mine of Phandelver, Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk returns players to the frontier town of Phandalin to delve deeper into the mystery of magical obelisks. This adventure transforms into a cosmic horror narrative with Mind Flayers at its core, making it a standout campaign that capitalizes on the recent popularity of Baldur's Gate 3 and the nostalgia of Phandalin.
Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)
### Eberron: Rising from the Last War
9See it at Amazon
Set in a war-torn world with floating castles and airships, Eberron: Rising from the Last War offers a unique setting distinct from the Forgotten Realms. It includes new species options like Dragonmarks and a campaign set in the eerie Mournland. This sourcebook is perfect for groups interested in a blend of roleplay and action in a pulpy post-war setting.
Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)
### Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen
1See it at Amazon
Introducing the Dragonlance setting to 5E, Shadow of the Dragon Queen offers a lengthy adventure centered on mass combat and dragons. Featuring the death knight Lord Soth and his draconian army, this book also provides new player options, making it ideal for those who crave epic battles and dragon-filled encounters.
Curse of Strahd (Adventure)
### Curse of Strahd
5See it at Amazon
A classic gothic horror adventure, Curse of Strahd is a remake of an iconic campaign from the first edition of D&D. With its vampires and eerie atmosphere, it remains a fan favorite. For more depth, consider the supplement Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft.
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)
### The Wild Beyond the Witchlight: A Feywild Adventure
0See it at Amazon
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight is perfect for groups that enjoy roleplay and non-violent problem-solving. Set in the whimsical Feywild with a carnival backdrop, this adventure offers new playable species and backgrounds, including the chance to play as a carny.
Third-party content
While we aimed to focus on first-party content, we can't resist mentioning a few standout third-party titles:
Strongholds and Followers by MCDM Productions adds rules for bases and NPC allies, inspiring even Wizards of the Coast's upcoming Bastion rules.
Flee, Mortals! also by MCDM, redesigns D&D monsters for added intrigue and introduces new ones, complemented by the adventure Where Evil Lives.
Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex by Kobold Press expands the monster roster, especially useful for high-level challenges.
Grim Hollow by Ghostfire Gaming offers a dark fantasy setting with numerous supporting books for those seeking a grimmer D&D experience.
These are our top recommendations for Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025. Let us know your thoughts or if we missed any of your favorites in the comments. Also, take a look at some of our favorite D&D dice sets and merch for more ways to enhance your gaming experience.
