Top Dungeons & Dragons Books of 2025

Dungeons & Dragons is currently experiencing a renaissance, fueled by the cultural impact of shows like Stranger Things, the cinematic success of Honor Among Thieves, the rise of tabletop-focused media, and the phenomenal reception of Baldur's Gate 3. It's an exciting time to dive into the world of D&D, especially with the Fifth Edition (5E) continuing to dominate the scene. However, the vast array of high-quality content, particularly from third-party creators, can be overwhelming for newcomers. If you're new to the hobby and looking for a starting point, here are our top recommendations for the best Dungeons & Dragons books in 2025. For additional guidance, don't forget to check out our beginner's guide to D&D.

Before we delve into our recommendations, a couple of important notes: This guide will focus primarily on first-party content, as third-party materials often cater to seasoned players looking to enhance their dungeon crawling experiences. Additionally, we'll skip over the essential trio of books: The Player’s Handbook, the Dungeon Master’s Guide, and the Monster Manual. These foundational texts, updated in 2024, are crucial for any D&D enthusiast, and you can find the latest versions below. For those new to the game, these are must-haves before exploring further.

### 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 AmazonSince its release in 2017, this sourcebook has become indispensable, offering a wealth of new player options, including over 25 subclasses, 20 racial feats, and a variety of new spells. It also provides valuable tools for game masters, such as trap-building guides and optional rules to enhance core concepts like downtime. While it leans more towards player utility, it's a must-have for groups looking to expand their character options, whether you're interested in Wizards mastering War Magic, Paladins taking the Oath of Redemption, or Monks embracing the Drunken Master fighting style.

Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)

### Tasha's Cauldron of Everything

5See it at AmazonSimilar to Xanathar’s Guide, this sourcebook enriches the game with additional player options and expands on core rulebook ideas. It introduces optional class features for every class, new spells, and innovative rules for game masters, including sidekicks, natural hazards, and supernatural environments. This book is essential for injecting diversity into your party's class choices and enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)

### Waterdeep: Dragon Heist

3See it at AmazonThis adventure stands out for its focus on roleplay, intrigue, and political conflict, offering a refreshing change from typical dungeon crawls. The story kicks off with a famous explorer drawing the party into a fierce rivalry between criminal factions, all while chasing hidden riches in the city's shadowy corners. With four possible antagonists, the game master can tailor the experience, ensuring surprises even for repeat players. For those who enjoy this adventure, consider the follow-up, Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage, which shifts the focus to dungeon exploration.

Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)

### Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse

4See it at AmazonPlanescape, a fascinating multiversal setting, is brought to life in this comprehensive three-book bundle. Unlike the less well-received Spelljammer, this set is packed with detailed lore, from the landmarks of Sigil to the intriguing factions with their complex philosophies. The monster manual, Morte’s Planar Parade, offers a variety of creatures for game masters, while the adventure, Turn of Fortune’s Wheel, promises a unique narrative journey. This bundle is a must-have for fans of D&D's rich settings.

Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)

### Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk

3See it at AmazonThis expansion to the beloved Lost Mine of Phandelver adventure takes players back to Phandalin to explore the mysteries of magical obelisks. As the campaign unfolds, the party uncovers a chilling conspiracy that blends mystery with cosmic horror. With the recent popularity of Mind Flayers in Baldur's Gate 3, this adventure offers a timely and thrilling experience.

Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)

### Eberron: Rising from the Last War

9See it at AmazonSet in a war-torn world with unique elements like floating castles and airships, Eberron offers a fresh setting for those looking to venture beyond the Forgotten Realms. This sourcebook introduces new species options called Dragonmarks and includes a campaign set in the eerie Mournland, perfect for groups interested in both roleplay and action.

Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)

### Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen

1See it at AmazonThis adventure introduces the Dragonlance setting to 5E, featuring mass combat and epic dragon battles. Focused on the menacing Lord Soth and his draconian army, it offers a lengthy and immersive experience, complete with new player options.

Curse of Strahd (Adventure)

### Curse of Strahd

5See it at AmazonA classic gothic horror adventure, Curse of Strahd is a remake of an iconic first-edition campaign. Filled with vampires and eerie elements, it's a must-play for fans of dark, atmospheric storytelling. For further exploration, consider the supplement Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft.

The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)

### The Wild Beyond the Witchlight: A Feywild Adventure

0See it at AmazonThis adventure, set in the enchanting Feywild, offers a carnival-themed experience with ample roleplaying opportunities. It introduces new playable species and backgrounds, including the chance to play as a carnival performer, making it ideal for groups that enjoy creative problem-solving.

Third-party content

While our focus has been on first-party content, we can't resist mentioning a few standout third-party titles:

Strongholds and Followers by MCDM Productions adds rules for game masters to manage party bases and NPC allies, influencing upcoming revisions to the core rulebooks.

Flee, Mortals! by MCDM Productions revamps D&D monsters and introduces new ones, accompanied by the adventure Where Evil Lives.

Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex by Kobold Press offers extensive monster options, particularly useful for high-level play.

Grim Hollow by Ghostfire Gaming presents a dark fantasy setting with a focus on war, dark magic, and plagues, supported by multiple books for deep immersion.

These are our top picks for the best Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025. What are your thoughts? Have we missed any of your favorites? Share your opinions in the comments, and don't forget to explore our favorite D&D dice sets and merch for more gaming inspiration.