Chapters:
(0:00) Exploring the Monk Class
(06:17) 2024 Rules and Changes to the Monk Class
(11:29) 5e Monk Reworks
(15:38) Master Unarmed Combat Techniques
(24:46) Stealth and Subterfuge
(38:40) Wield Strikes and Bursts of Elemental Power
(51:05) Stay Calm and Heal
(01:03:06) Special Mentions & Unique Monk Options
(01:07:01) Trinket of the Week

Featured On The Show

• Alternate Monk by laserllama
• Monastic Traditions by laserllama
• Way of the Kidney Punch in The Delver’s Guide to Beast World from Heartleaf Games
• Way of the Brawler from Johnpocalypse
• Way of the Aether from Griffon’s Saddlebag
• Way of Strings from Haricu
• Way of the Vogue in Chromatic Gamut from Action Fiction
• Way of the Viper from Griffon’s Saddlebag
• Way of the Hex in Villainous Champions of the Shadow Keep from Dream Plots
• Way of the Elemental Soul from The Amethyst Dragon
• Way of the Stormfist from Griffon’s Saddlebag
• Way of Dancing Wind in Among the Open Skies from Aripockily
• Way of the Dancing Current in Hero’s Guide to Vodari from Tribality
• Way of Peace in Heretic’s Guide to Devotion & Divinity from Eventyr
• Way of the Opened Eye in Hippocamper’s Complete Cookbook from Hippocamper
• Way of the Third Eye from Nerdarchy
• Way of the Artisan in L’Arsene’s Ledger from Loot Tavern
• Way of the Hive Monk in Stargazer’s Guide to Aroria from Ink and Lyre
• Way of the Origami Master from JackQuantum
• Way of the Meridian from Griffon’s Saddlebag
• Flail Snails Mail Monk Items

Summary

In this episode of the Above Table podcast, hosts Phil Kelly and Joshua Tipping delve into the monk class in Dungeons & Dragons, exploring its various subclasses, homebrew options, and the recent updates for 2024. They discuss the often-overlooked monk archetype, highlighting its unique abilities and potential for creative gameplay. The conversation covers official subclasses like the Warrior of the Open Hand, Warrior of Shadow, and Warrior of the Elements, as well as exciting homebrew alternatives. The hosts emphasize the versatility of monks, showcasing how they can be played in diverse ways, from stealthy assassins to powerful healers. The episode concludes with special mentions of unique monk builds and items that enhance gameplay.

Takeaways

• Monks are often overlooked in gameplay but have unique abilities.
• The 2024 updates for monks aim to broaden their appeal.
• Creative gameplay can redefine how monks are perceived in D&D.
• Unique items and builds can enhance the monk experience.

Image: Half-Elf Monk © Zoltan Boros/WotC