Top Dungeons & Dragons Books of 2025

Dungeons & Dragons is currently experiencing a golden era, fueled by a resurgence in popularity thanks to shows like Stranger Things, the blockbuster success of the Honor Among Thieves movie, the rise of tabletop-focused podcasts and YouTube channels, and the phenomenal reception to Baldur's Gate 3. There's never been a more exciting time to roll the dice and embark on your own epic adventures.

However, diving into the vast world of Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition (5E), which has dominated the scene for nearly a decade, can be overwhelming for newcomers, especially with the flood of high-quality content from third-party creators. If you're new to the hobby and unsure where to begin, we've curated a list of the best Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025. For additional tips, don't forget to check out our beginner's guide to D&D.

Before we delve into our recommendations, a couple of disclaimers: This guide focuses primarily on first-party content, as third-party options are often aimed at seasoned players looking to enhance their dungeon crawling experiences. Additionally, we'll skip the three essential core rulebooks: The Player’s Handbook, the Dungeon Master’s Guide, and the Monster Manual. These books, updated in 2024, are foundational and necessary for any player or Dungeon Master. If you haven't yet, make sure to grab these core rulebooks first. Below, you'll find links to the latest versions, but feel free to jump ahead 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 AmazonXanathar’s Guide to Everything, published in 2017, stands out as one of the most crucial expansions for 5E. It enriches the game with over 25 new subclasses, 20 racial feats, and a plethora of new spells, providing players with a wealth of options to customize their characters. Additionally, it offers valuable tools for Dungeon Masters, such as trap-building guidelines and optional rules to enhance core concepts like downtime activities. While more player-focused, this sourcebook is essential for any group looking to expand their gameplay options. Whether you're interested in a Wizard mastering War Magic, a Paladin taking the Oath of Redemption, or a Monk perfecting the Drunken Fist style, this book is a must-have.

Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)

### Tasha's Cauldron of Everything

5See it at AmazonTasha’s Cauldron of Everything mirrors Xanathar's Guide by offering additional player options and expanding on core rulebook ideas. Each class gains optional features, and there's a wide array of new spells to explore. Dungeon Masters will appreciate the new rules for sidekicks, natural hazards, monster negotiations, and supernatural environments. This sourcebook is key for adding diversity to your party's classes and enhancing your D&D experience.

Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)

### Waterdeep: Dragon Heist

3See it at AmazonWaterdeep: Dragon Heist is a standout adventure from Wizards of the Coast, emphasizing roleplay, intrigue, and deadly feuds. Unlike many D&D adventures that focus on dungeon crawling and monster combat, this one delves into social encounters, political conflicts, and subterfuge. The adventure kicks off with the party getting entangled in a conflict between criminal enterprises, chasing after hidden riches in the city's shadows. With four interchangeable antagonists, the game master can tailor the experience to keep players engaged, even if they've played it before. For those who enjoy this adventure, consider its 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: Adventures in the Multiverse is a comprehensive three-book bundle that delves into one of D&D's most fascinating settings, the multiversal hub of the Forgotten Realms. Unlike the less-received Spelljammer, this expansion delivers detailed setting information, from landmarks to factions, in Sigil and the Outlands. Morte’s Planar Parade provides a variety of monsters for Dungeon Masters, while Turn of Fortune’s Wheel offers a captivating adventure. This bundle is a testament to Wizards of the Coast's commitment to enriching one of D&D's best settings.

Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)

### Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk

3See it at AmazonPhandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk expands on the beloved Lost Mine of Phandelver, taking players back to Phandalin to unravel the mystery of the magical obelisks. This adventure morphs into cosmic horror, featuring Mind Flayers and a conspiracy that will keep players on the edge of their seats. It's a unique addition to Wizards' catalog, perfect for groups looking to dive into a thrilling narrative, especially following the success of Baldur's Gate 3.

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

### Eberron: Rising from the Last War

9See it at AmazonEberron: Rising from the Last War introduces a distinctive setting with a war-torn world featuring floating castles, skyscrapers, and airships. This sourcebook offers new species options called Dragonmarks and a campaign set in the eerie Mournland. It's ideal for groups interested in a post-war, pulpy adventure with a mix of roleplay and swashbuckling action.

Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)

### Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen

1See it at AmazonDragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen brings the classic setting to 5E, focusing on epic mass combat and dragon-centric battles. This lengthy adventure revolves around the menacing death knight Lord Soth and his draconian army, offering new player options and a deep narrative.

Curse of Strahd (Adventure)

### Curse of Strahd

5See it at AmazonCurse of Strahd is a classic gothic horror adventure, remade from the first edition of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. Filled with vampires, blood, and eerie toys, it's perfect for those who enjoy a chilling tale. For a deeper dive into the setting, consider the supplementary Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft.

The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)

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

0See it at AmazonThe Wild Beyond the Witchlight offers a whimsical adventure in the Feywild, centered around a mysterious carnival. This book is excellent for parties that enjoy roleplay and creative problem-solving, featuring new playable species and backgrounds, including the chance to play as a carnival performer.

Third-party content

While our focus has been on first-party content, we can't overlook a few notable third-party titles worth considering:

Strongholds and Followers by MCDM Productions adds rules for managing bases and NPC allies, a concept that has influenced Wizards' upcoming Bastion rules.

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

Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex by Kobold Press expands the monster roster, particularly useful for high-level campaigns.

Grim Hollow by Ghostfire Gaming offers a dark fantasy setting ripe with war, dark magic, and plagues, supported by several books for immersive gameplay.

In conclusion, these are our top picks for Dungeons & Dragons books to explore in 2025. Let us know in the comments if we've missed any of your favorites, or take a look at our favorite D&D dice sets and merch for more ways to enhance your gaming experience.