5E verses 5.5

[NOD the Goblin]

So the new D&D version is slowly getting out, and on other social media platforms there are mixed reviews. For those who have played these versions, what are the differences and what makes them especially different?

[Rod Izegrim]

I can confirm that the two editions are easily compatible without any conversion. In my current group, two of us are playing 2024 versions of A Fighter and Ranger, respectively, while the rest of the game is 2014. With weapon mastery, while one more widget to keep track of, really bumps up the effectiveness of martial characters. The other big differences are with some individual spells.

For example, spiritual weapon is now concentration in 2024 (which is good, because it was OP before). And witch bolt, which I thought was underpowered as a 1st level spell, now has the initial damage go from 1d12 to 2d12, so it's now a viable choice.

The books themselves are much better.  Better art and better layout.

Another major change is backgrounds.  In 2024, you don't get stat boosts from races. Those come from the background you choose. You also get a free pre-defined feat based on background.  For example, if you choose the Criminal background, you get the alert feat.