About this episode
New horror subclasses just dropped, and we're here to reanimate them, roast them, and regret reading the action economy aloud. Support our friends at DungeonFlow , because your dungeon shouldn't look like it was sketched during a Zoom call. Unearthed Arcana: Horror Subclasses Show Notes In this episode, the RPGBOT crew proves that horror isn't just for the subclasses—it's also in trying to sync microphones. After wrestling with some haunted audio gremlins, the hosts dive headfirst into the latest Unearthed Arcana drop from Wizards of the Coast, which brings a trio of spooky new subclass options to the D&D table. First up: the Artificer Reanimator, which asks the important question, "What if your sidekick was a science experiment?" With mechanics that feel like equal parts Frankenstein and Excel spreadsheet, the gang unpacks the subclass's vibes, power level, and general corpse-hugging potential. Next, they dig into the Hollow Warden Ranger, a subclass so reliant on Hunter's Mark that it might as well come with a branded tattoo. Spoiler: there's one way to build it, and WotC really wants you to take that path. The group debates its narrow design, interesting healing mechanics, and whether you can actually play it without needing a second concentration slot stapled to your forehead. Then it's time for a séance with the Grave Domain Cleric and College of Spirits Bard—both bearing mechanical changes that sparked nostalgia, mild rage, and Bardic action economy debates worthy of a dissertation. Turns out when you nerf old faves, the ghosts of playtesters past come back to haunt you. The discussion also wanders into Ravenloft's LaMortia, Van Richten's Guide, and the tragic identity crisis of the Hexblade Warlock, who still isn't quite sure what they're supposed to be when they grow up. With a healthy dose of snark, love, and grief over lost subclass features, the crew gives their full take on what works, what doesn't, and what still smells faintly of necromantic glue. Key Takeaways The real horror was the audio levels we fixed along the way. The Artificer Reanimator is what happens when a necromancer raids Home Depot. Reanimator gameplay is cool and crunchy—but don't ask how it stacks up next to Necromancers unless you want a debate. Ranger's Hollow Warden is basically "Concentration: The Subclass." There is exactly one way to build it—and if you deviate, your damage goes to a farm upstate. Players are not thrilled about the subclass being chained to Hunter's Mark. Healing-through-hitting is a new mechanic that kind of slaps, literally. New auras = new damage toys. But still… it's all wrapped around Hunter's Mark like clingfilm. Grave Cleric and College of Spirits Bard have been redesigned, and not everyone's happy about their new wardrobe. The action economy is still Bard's greatest horror story. Hexblade Warlock is having a full-blown identity crisis and might need a long rest… or therapy. Undead Warlock is both buffed and nerfed, which is somehow the most D&D thing imaginable. Ravenloft still slaps. LaMortia is creepy, cold, and full of subclass inspiration. Player feedback is a literal mechanic now—give it, or don't complain when your subclass becomes unrecognizable. Game design needs to stop making subclasses feel like assembly instructions from IKEA. Weapon Mastery and auras may help salvage narrow builds, but only just. Multiclassing into Nature Cleric can make your Ranger feel like it got invited to the cool kids' table. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts , Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon , where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale ( affiliate link ) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati