It's safe to say that Dungeons & Dragons is currently experiencing a golden age. From the renewed interest sparked by shows like Stranger Things to the cinematic success of Honor Among Thieves, and from the surge in tabletop-focused podcasts and YouTube channels to the phenomenal reception of Baldur's Gate 3, there has never been a more exciting time to delve into the world of D&D. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned player, navigating the extensive content of the Fifth Edition (5E) can be overwhelming, especially with the flood of high-quality third-party creations. If you're new to the hobby and unsure where to start, we've compiled a list of the best Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025. For additional guidance, don't forget to check out our beginner's guide to D&D.
AnswerSee ResultsFirst-party contentBefore we dive into our recommendations, a few notes: This guide focuses primarily on first-party content, as the vast array of third-party options often caters to veteran players seeking to enhance their gameplay. Additionally, we will not include the essential trio of The Player’s Handbook, The Dungeon Master’s Guide, and The Monster Manual. These core rulebooks, updated in 2024, are fundamental and should be your starting point. You can find the latest versions below or jump straight to our recommended 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 AmazonConsidered one of the most essential sourcebooks since its 2017 release, this expansion enriches the game with over 25 new subclasses, 20 racial feats, and a plethora of new spells. It also offers game masters useful tools, such as trap-building guides, and optional rules to enhance core concepts like downtime. While it's more player-focused, it's indispensable for groups seeking to expand their options, from Wizards exploring War Magic to Monks mastering the art of drunken fighting.
Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)
### Tasha's Cauldron of Everything
5See it at AmazonSimilar to Xanathar’s Guide, this sourcebook enhances player options and builds on core rulebooks with optional class features and new spells. Game masters can explore new rules for sidekicks, natural hazards, monster negotiations, and supernatural environments. It's crucial for injecting class diversity into your D&D party.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)
### Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
3See it at AmazonThis adventure stands out with its focus on roleplay, intrigue, and political conflict. Unlike typical dungeon crawls, it immerses players in a quest filled with social encounters and subterfuge, centered around a famous explorer's promise of hidden riches. With four possible antagonists, it offers flexibility for game masters. If you enjoy this, consider its follow-up, Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage, for a different but equally engaging experience.
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)
### Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse
4See it at AmazonPlanescape, a fascinating multiversal setting, is brilliantly explored in this three-book bundle. From the detailed setting book, Sigil and the Outlands, to the monster manual, Morte’s Planar Parade, and the adventure, Turn of Fortune’s Wheel, this bundle does justice to one of D&D’s best settings. It's a must-have for those eager to explore beyond the Forgotten Realms.
Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)
### Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk
3See it at AmazonThis expansion revisits the beloved setting of The Lost Mine of Phandelver, taking players deeper into the mystery of magical obelisks. It blends nostalgia with cosmic horror, featuring Mind Flayers in a narrative that's both fresh and thrilling. It's an excellent choice for those looking to run a campaign that resonates with the current popularity of Baldur’s Gate 3.
Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)
### Eberron: Rising from the Last War
9See it at AmazonSet in a unique world of war-torn landscapes, floating castles, and airships, Eberron offers a departure from traditional settings. It includes new species options like Dragonmarks and a campaign set in the eerie Mournland, making it ideal for groups interested in both roleplay and action.
Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)
### Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen
1See it at AmazonIntroducing the Dragonlance setting to 5E, this adventure features mass combat and dragons, centered around the menacing death knight Lord Soth. It's perfect for those who enjoy epic battles and new player options.
Curse of Strahd (Adventure)
### Curse of Strahd
5See it at AmazonA classic gothic horror adventure, this remake of an Advanced D&D favorite offers a thrilling experience with vampires and eerie settings. For those who want more, Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft provides additional depth.
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)
### The Wild Beyond the Witchlight: A Feywild Adventure
0See it at AmazonThis adventure offers a rich roleplaying experience in the Feywild, featuring a mysterious carnival. It introduces new playable species and backgrounds, perfect for parties interested in creative problem-solving beyond combat.
Third-party content
While our focus has been on first-party content, we can't ignore the value of third-party resources. Here are a few notable mentions:
Strongholds and Followers by MCDM Productions adds rules for bases and NPC interactions, inspiring Wizards' upcoming Bastion rules.
Flee, Mortals! by MCDM Productions reimagines D&D monsters and includes a companion dungeon adventure, Where Evil Lives.
Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex by Kobold Press offers extensive monster options, ideal for high-level play.
Grim Hollow by Ghostfire Gaming presents a dark fantasy setting with numerous support books for an immersive experience.
And there you have it: Our top recommendations for the best Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025. What are your favorites? Let us know in the comments, or explore our favorite D&D dice sets and merch for more gaming inspiration.
