Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica is a Dungeons & Dragons campaign sourcebook released in 2018, set in the vast city of Ravnica from Magic: The Gathering. It introduces ten iconic guilds, new races, subclasses, and backgrounds, blending adventure and intrigue in a richly detailed urban fantasy setting.
Setting of Ravnica
Ravnica is a sprawling, ancient city dominated by ten powerful guilds, each shaping its culture, politics, and magic. This vast urban landscape blends wild magic and industrial machinery, creating a unique setting of endless conflict and intrigue.
The Cityscape
Ravnica is a vast, layered metropolis where ancient architecture blends seamlessly with sprawling industrial zones. The city is divided into distinct districts, each reflecting the influence of its ruling guilds. Towering structures like the Chamber of the Guildpact dominate the skyline, while labyrinthine undercities hide secrets and dangers. The streets are alive with activity, from bustling marketplaces to hidden enclaves of intrigue. Ravnica’s unique magic infuses the environment, creating zones where the laws of nature are subtly altered. Skybridges and canals connect the city’s disparate regions, while massive trees, remnants of a bygone era, pierce through buildings and streets. This ever-changing urban landscape is both a marvel and a challenge, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. The city’s design encourages creativity and adaptability, making it a dynamic backdrop for any campaign. Ravnica’s cityscape is a testament to its rich history and the constant struggle for power among its guilds.
History and Lore
Ravnica’s history is deeply intertwined with the creation of the Guildpact, a powerful magical treaty forged 10,000 years ago by the city’s founders. This ancient accord established the ten guilds as the ruling powers, each with a distinct philosophy and purpose. Over centuries, the guilds have shaped Ravnica’s destiny through periods of harmony and conflict. The city’s lore is filled with tales of legendary figures, such as Azor I, the first guildmaster, and the enigmatic Parun, whose influence still resonates. Recent events, like the Guilds’ War and the arrival of Nicol Bolas, have reshaped Ravnica’s political landscape, creating a fractured but vibrant world. The Selesnya Conclave’s emphasis on unity contrasts with the Boros Legion’s militaristic order, while the Gruul Clans reject urban life for a more primal existence. This rich tapestry of history and lore provides a compelling foundation for storytelling and adventure in Ravnica.
The Ten Guilds of Ravnica
The Ten Guilds of Ravnica are the cornerstone of the city’s society, each representing unique ideals and functions. From the Boros Legion’s military order to the Simic Combine’s scientific advancements, these guilds shape Ravnica’s culture and conflicts.
Overview of the Guilds
The Ten Guilds of Ravnica are the backbone of the city, each with distinct philosophies and roles. The Boros Legion upholds justice and order, while the Simic Combine pursues scientific progress. The Golgari manage life and death, and the Orzhov control wealth and power. Meanwhile, the Gruul Clans champion freedom and nature, opposing urbanization. The Selesnya Conclave fosters unity and life, the Izzet League explores knowledge and innovation, and the Dimir House excels in strategy and manipulation. Lastly, the Cult of Rakdos embraces chaos and destruction, and the House Dimir operates in secrecy and espionage. These guilds create a complex political landscape, where alliances and rivalries shape the city’s destiny.
Role in the Setting
The Ten Guilds of Ravnica are central to the setting, shaping the city’s culture, politics, and conflicts. Each guild represents a distinct philosophy, influencing the lives of citizens and adventurers alike. The Boros Legion enforces order, while the Simic Combine experiments with life and science. The Golgari manage the cycle of life and death, and the Orzhov wield power through wealth and manipulation. These guilds create a dynamic environment where characters must navigate alliances, rivalries, and shifting loyalties. Their roles are not just background elements but active forces that drive the story and adventures. Players can align with a guild, oppose its goals, or remain neutral, immersing themselves in Ravnica’s intricate social fabric. The guilds’ interactions and conflicts define the city’s identity, making them indispensable to both the setting and gameplay. Through their unique roles, the guilds bring depth and richness to the world, offering endless opportunities for exploration and storytelling.
Character Creation in Ravnica
Character creation in Ravnica offers unique options, including new races like Loxodon and Simic Hybrid, and subclasses such as the Circle of Spores Druid. Players can craft diverse characters, blending guild affiliations with personal backgrounds, creating rich, immersive personalities tailored to the setting;
New Races
Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica introduces four unique playable races, each deeply tied to the city’s lore and guilds. The Loxodon are wise, elephantine humanoids with a focus on knowledge and community, often aligning with the Selesnya Conclave. The Simic Hybrid combines human and animal traits, reflecting the Simic Combine’s experiments, offering adaptability and versatility in abilities. The Vedalken are tall, intellectual beings with a mastery of science and magic, commonly associated with the Azorius Senate. Lastly, the Gruul are hulking, feral humanoids living on the fringes, embodying the Gruul Clans’ wild and rebellious nature. Each race provides distinct racial traits, such as ability score bonuses, special abilities, and cultural backgrounds, allowing players to craft characters deeply rooted in Ravnica’s diverse society. These races enrich the Dungeons & Dragons experience, offering fresh archetypes and storytelling opportunities within the setting.
Loxodon
The Loxodon are a race of elephant-like humanoids native to Ravnica, known for their wisdom, strength, and deep connection to nature and knowledge. Physically imposing with their large size and imposing tusks, they exude a calm and thoughtful demeanor. Loxodon are naturally inclined towards roles that emphasize wisdom and resilience, such as clerics, druids, or paladins, and are often drawn to the Selesnya Conclave, a guild that values community and the sacredness of life. Their racial traits include enhanced strength and wisdom scores, along with abilities that reflect their resilience and communal nature, such as shared healing and resistance to certain types of damage. The Loxodon bring a unique blend of physical prowess and intellectual depth to any party, making them a compelling choice for players seeking a race that embodies both strength and sagacity.
Simic Hybrid
The Simic Hybrid is a unique race introduced in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica, representing the blending of different species through the Simic Guild’s biomancy. These hybrids are the result of the Simic Combine’s experiments, merging traits from various creatures to create versatile and adaptable beings. Physically, Simic Hybrids often exhibit a mix of features, such as humanoid frames with scales, gills, or other aquatic adaptations, reflecting their connection to the Simic’s pursuit of biological perfection.
Racial traits of the Simic Hybrid include increased ability scores in two attributes, emphasizing their versatility. They also gain proficiency in two skills of their choice, reflecting their adaptability and the Guild’s emphasis on experimentation. Additionally, they possess a unique trait called Versatility, allowing them to add their proficiency bonus to any ability check they make, further highlighting their adaptability in various situations.
Simic Hybrids are naturally drawn to the Simic Combine, valuing knowledge, experimentation, and the pursuit of progress. Their background often shapes them as curious and inventive characters, making them excellent fits for classes like bards, sorcerers, or rogues. Their blend of physical and mental traits ensures they can excel in a wide range of roles within a party.
Vedalken
The Vedalken is a fascinating race introduced in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica, hailing from the Simic Combine, a guild renowned for its mastery of biomancy and experimentation. Vedalken are tall, slender humanoids with elongated heads, large eyes, and pale, almost translucent skin, often marked by faint, glowing patterns that reflect their connection to magic and science.
As a race, Vedalken are deeply intellectual and philosophical, valuing knowledge and innovation above all else. They are naturally inclined toward spellcasting, with a focus on enchantment and illusion magic. Their racial traits include increased Intelligence and Wisdom scores, making them well-suited for classes like wizards, sorcerers, and clerics. Additionally, they possess a unique trait called Spell Versatility, allowing them to cast spells using their proficiency bonus, showcasing their innate magical aptitude.
Vedalken are often seen as enigmatic and detached, preferring to observe and analyze rather than engage in direct conflict. Their calm demeanor and analytical mindset make them excellent problem solvers and strategists, both in and out of combat. Their connection to the Simic Combine also grants them access to unique guild resources and networks, further enriching their role in any campaign.
Gruul
The Gruul are a primal and fiercely independent race in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica, hailing from the Gruul Clans, a guild that worships nature and rejects urbanization. Physically, Gruul are imposing, with muscular builds, bestial features, and a connection to the wild. They embody raw strength and resilience, making them natural warriors.
Gruul characters are defined by their primal instincts and a deep bond with nature. Their racial traits include increased Strength and Constitution, reflecting their physical prowess. They also possess the Powerful Build trait, allowing them to be treated as one size larger for certain interactions. Additionally, the Roar ability lets them unleash a fearsome cry, granting allies advantage on Intimidation checks or causing fear in enemies.
Gruul are often seen as barbarians or fierce fighters, but their culture is rich with shamanistic traditions and clan loyalty. This race offers players a unique blend of brute strength and primal connection, making them a compelling choice for those seeking a wild, untamed character in the Ravnica setting.
New Subclasses
Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica introduces two unique subclasses that expand player options in Dungeons & Dragons. These subclasses are deeply tied to the lore and themes of Ravnica, offering distinct playstyles and abilities.
The Circle of Spores is a druid subclass that emphasizes a symbiotic relationship with fungal life. Druids of this circle can summon fungal growths, manipulate spores, and even transform into a fungal-infused version of themselves. This subclass is perfect for players who want to explore a more sinister, nature-based magic.
In contrast, the Order of the Beacon is a paladin subclass centered around guiding light and hope. These paladins wield radiant magic to inspire allies and vanquish darkness. Their abilities focus on support, protection, and dealing radiant damage, making them excellent for players seeking a more celestial, protective role.
Both subclasses are designed to integrate seamlessly with the Ravnica setting, offering fresh mechanical and thematic opportunities for players seeking to embody the city’s diverse factions and ideologies.
Circle of Spores Druid
The Circle of Spores is a unique druid subclass introduced in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica, offering a fascinating blend of nature and decay. Druids of this circle form a symbiotic bond with fungal life, gaining abilities that reflect their connection to spores, rot, and rebirth.
- Symbiotic Relationship: These druids can summon fungal growths to hinder enemies or create platforms, showcasing their mastery over organic matter.
- Spore Manipulation: They can control spores to blind foes, heal allies, or even transform into a fungal-infused version of themselves, granting resistance to poison and disease.
- Fungal Transformation: At higher levels, the druid can unleash a cloud of spores, dealing area damage and leaving a lingering effect that weakens enemies.
This subclass is perfect for players who want to explore a darker, more sinister side of nature. The Circle of Spores druid thrives in environments where decay and growth coexist, making them a formidable force in both combat and exploration.
Order of the Beacon Paladin
The Order of the Beacon is a paladin subclass introduced in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica, embodying the ideals of guidance, protection, and inspiration. These paladins serve as beacons of hope, radiating light and positivity in dark times.
- Beacon of Hope: They can imbue allies with radiant energy, granting advantage on saving throws against fear and healing them over time.
- Guiding Light: The paladin can emit a powerful light, illuminating their surroundings and providing allies with advantage on attack rolls against foes in the area.
- Radiant Crusade: At higher levels, they can unleash a burst of radiant energy, damaging undead and fiends while bolstering their allies’ resolve.
This subclass is ideal for players who want to play a supportive, inspiring character. The Order of the Beacon paladin excels at keeping allies motivated and protected, making them a cornerstone of any adventuring party.
New Backgrounds
Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica introduces three unique backgrounds that immerse players in the vibrant world of Ravnica. These backgrounds provide rich lore and mechanical benefits, allowing players to craft characters deeply connected to the setting.
- Guild Member: This background ties characters to one of Ravnica’s ten guilds, granting access to exclusive guild-specific features and a network of contacts within the guild’s hierarchy.
- Renegade: Perfect for characters who have defied their guild or upbringing, this background emphasizes independence, resourcefulness, and a rebellious spirit.
- Smuggler: Ideal for those who operate in the shadows, this background focuses on illegal activities, underworld connections, and the ability to move undetected through the city.
Each background includes unique proficiency choices, skill bonuses, and narrative hooks, helping players create well-rounded characters with a strong sense of identity in Ravnica’s complex society;
Guild Member
The Guild Member background in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica allows players to deeply integrate their characters into one of the ten iconic guilds of Ravnica. This background offers a unique set of traits and abilities that reflect the character’s allegiance and role within their chosen guild.
- Guild Allegiance: Characters gain access to exclusive guild-specific features, such as unique spells, abilities, or proficiencies tied to their guild’s theme.
- Guild Contacts: Players can leverage their guild’s network, gaining advantages in social interactions and access to information or resources within their guild’s sphere of influence.
- Guild Identity: The background emphasizes the character’s dedication to their guild’s ideals, influencing their behavior and interactions in the world of Ravnica.
This background is ideal for players who want to create characters that are deeply embedded in Ravnica’s guild-centric society, offering rich narrative opportunities and mechanical benefits that enhance gameplay.
Renegade
The Renegade background in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica is perfect for characters who have broken free from the constraints of their former guild, embracing a life of independence and rebellion. This background reflects the stigma and challenges that come with abandoning one’s guild, while also offering unique opportunities for growth and self-definition.
- Natural Talent: Renegades often possess innate skills or abilities that were nurtured during their time in the guild, even if they no longer adhere to its strictures.
- Versatility: Characters with this background gain proficiency in two skills of their choice, reflecting their adaptability and resourcefulness outside the guild’s structure.
- Outcast: Renegades may face distrust or hostility from their former guild and its members, adding layers of complexity to social interactions and roleplay.
The Renegade background is ideal for players who want to explore themes of independence, redemption, or rebellion, offering a rich narrative foundation for characters navigating a world dominated by guild politics.
Smuggler
The Smuggler background in Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica is tailored for characters who thrive in the shadows, evading authority and operating outside the law. This background is ideal for rogues, rogues, or characters with a penchant for stealth, deception, and clandestine activities.
- Clandestine Expertise: Smugglers gain proficiency in two skills of their choice, such as Stealth, Deception, or Sleight of Hand, reflecting their knack for moving undetected and manipulating situations.
- Underworld Connections: Characters with this background have access to a network of contacts in the criminal underworld, providing them with information, safe houses, and black-market goods.
- Deceptive Exchange: Smugglers are adept at haggling and negotiating, often securing better deals or escaping dangerous situations through their charm and wit.
The Smuggler background offers a rich narrative for characters who operate on the fringes of society, making them versatile and resourceful in both urban and covert settings. It’s perfect for players who enjoy playing cunning, resourceful characters who thrive in the shadows of Ravnica’s bustling cityscape.
Gameplay Mechanics in Ravnica
Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica introduces unique gameplay mechanics tailored to the city’s urban fantasy setting. It includes rules for guild-specific abilities, tactical combat in dense cityscapes, and innovative magic systems inspired by Ravnica’s ten iconic guilds.
Combat and Tactics
Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica enhances combat with tactical options reflecting the city’s intricate layout. Narrow streets, towering structures, and bustling markets create dynamic battlegrounds. The book introduces guild-specific combat maneuvers, allowing players to harness unique abilities tied to their guild affiliations. For instance, the Gruul can unleash wild, unrelenting attacks, while the Simic might deploy advanced, adaptive tactics. Additionally, the guide includes rules for navigating vertical combat in Ravnica’s multi-level cityscape, such as fighting atop moving trains or within the canopies of the city’s vast tree network. These mechanics encourage strategic thinking and immersion, making combat in Ravnica feel distinct and engaging. The emphasis on environmental interaction and guild synergies ensures that every battle is not just a clash of weapons but a showcase of Ravnica’s unique charm and complexity.
Magic and Spells
Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica introduces a unique approach to magic, deeply tied to the city’s ten guilds. Each guild has its own distinct magical traditions and themes, offering players and DMs fresh spellcasting options. For example, the Izzet League emphasizes arcane experimentation, while the Simic Combine blends magic with biomancy. The guide includes new spells and enchantments inspired by Ravnica’s lore, such as spells that manipulate time, alter biology, or create elaborate illusions. Additionally, the book explores how magic interacts with the city’s infrastructure, such as enchanting buildings or powering the city’s iconic Guildgates. Magic in Ravnica is not just a tool for combat but also a way to solve problems, manipulate environments, and tell stories. The integration of magic into the setting’s culture and politics adds depth, making spellcasting feel integral to the world’s identity. This section provides rich material for spellcasters and world-builders alike, enhancing the immersive experience of Ravnica.
Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica offers a captivating blend of urban fantasy and political intrigue, bringing the iconic world of Ravnica from Magic: The Gathering to life for Dungeons & Dragons. With its detailed cityscape, rich lore, and innovative mechanics, this sourcebook provides endless opportunities for adventure. The ten guilds, each with unique themes and roles, add layers of depth to both storytelling and gameplay. New character options, including races, subclasses, and backgrounds, empower players to craft unique identities tied to Ravnica’s vibrant factions. The guide’s focus on blending magic, combat, and social dynamics makes it a versatile tool for Dungeon Masters seeking to create immersive campaigns. Whether exploring the intrigue of the guilds or unleashing creativity through new spells and strategies, Guildmaster’s Guide to Ravnica stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities of the Dungeons & Dragons universe, inviting players and DMs alike to embrace the endless excitement of this extraordinary setting.