It's safe to say that Dungeons & Dragons is currently basking in a golden age. From the renewed interest sparked by the show *Stranger Things* to the cinematic success of *Honor Among Thieves*, and from the surge in tabletop-focused podcasts and YouTube shows to the phenomenal reception of *Baldur's Gate 3* in recent years, there's never been a more exciting time to delve into the world of D&D. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, the vast array of content available can be overwhelming, especially with the Fifth Edition's (5E) nearly decade-long reign and the plethora of high-quality third-party materials. If you're eager to start your adventure, here's our curated list of the best Dungeons & Dragons books to explore in 2025. For more guidance, don't miss our beginner's guide to D&D.
AnswerSee ResultsFirst-party contentBefore we dive into our recommendations, a couple of important points: Our focus here is primarily on first-party content, as third-party materials often cater to experienced players looking to enhance their dungeon crawling experience. Additionally, we're skipping over the three essential books—The Player’s Handbook, The Dungeon Master’s Guide, and The Monster Manual. These foundational texts, updated in 2024, are must-haves for any D&D enthusiast. You can find the latest editions below, or continue reading for our suggested 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 AmazonSince its release in 2017, this sourcebook has become an indispensable addition to any D&D library. It offers a wealth of new options for players, including over 25 subclasses, 20 racial feats, and a host of new spells. Dungeon Masters will appreciate the tools for creating traps and optional rules that enhance gameplay elements introduced in the core rulebooks, such as managing downtime. While this book is particularly beneficial for players, it's a must-have if you're looking to expand your party's capabilities, whether it's Wizards learning War Magic, Paladins taking the Oath of Redemption, or Monks mastering the art of drunken fighting.
Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)
### Tasha's Cauldron of Everything
5See it at AmazonMuch like Xanathar's Guide, Tasha's Cauldron provides a bounty of new player options and expands on the concepts found in the core rulebooks. Every class receives optional features, and there are numerous new spells to explore. Dungeon Masters can utilize new rules for sidekicks, natural hazards, monster negotiations, and supernatural settings. This sourcebook is essential for adding diversity and depth to your D&D party's adventures.
Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)
### Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
3See it at AmazonOne of the most engaging adventures from Wizards of the Coast, Waterdeep: Dragon Heist is a roleplay-centric quest brimming with intrigue and deadly rivalries. Unlike many D&D adventures that focus on dungeon crawls and combat, this one is rich in social encounters, political conflicts, and subterfuge. The story begins with the party caught in a conflict between two criminal factions, chasing a hidden treasure in the city's shadowy depths. The book offers four different antagonists, allowing for customization and replayability. If you enjoy this adventure, consider its sequel, Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage, which shifts the focus to more traditional dungeon exploration.
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)
### Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse
4See it at AmazonPlanescape, the multiversal hub of the Forgotten Realms, is one of D&D's most fascinating settings, famously featured in the classic RPG Planescape: Torment. This three-book bundle exceeds expectations, offering detailed settings in Sigil and the Outlands, a comprehensive monster manual in Morte’s Planar Parade, and an intriguing adventure in Turn of Fortune’s Wheel. This collection is a testament to Wizards of the Coast's commitment to quality, providing an immersive and richly detailed expansion to one of D&D's best-loved worlds.
Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)
### Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk
3See it at AmazonThis expansive follow-up to The Lost Mine of Phandelver brings players back to Phandalin to explore the mysteries surrounding magical obelisks. The campaign delves into a conspiracy that evolves into cosmic horror, featuring Mind Flayers in a narrative that resonates with fans of Baldur's Gate 3. It's a unique adventure that combines nostalgia with fresh, thrilling elements, making it a standout choice for your next campaign.
Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)
### Eberron: Rising from the Last War
9See it at AmazonSet in a world marked by war and featuring floating castles and airships, Eberron offers a unique departure from the traditional Forgotten Realms. This sourcebook introduces new species options like Dragonmarks and includes a campaign set in the eerie Mournland, offering a blend of roleplay and action-packed adventures.
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 encounters and epic battles against dragons. Focused on the menacing Lord Soth and his draconian army, the campaign offers a lengthy and immersive experience, along 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 a beloved first-edition campaign. Filled with vampires, eerie atmosphere, and chilling encounters, it's a must-play for fans of horror-themed adventures. For further exploration, consider Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft, though the essence of the setting is captured well within the main adventure.
The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)
### The Wild Beyond the Witchlight: A Feywild Adventure
0See it at AmazonFor groups that relish in roleplaying and creative problem-solving, The Wild Beyond the Witchlight offers a whimsical journey through the Feywild, centered around a mysterious carnival. The adventure includes new playable species and backgrounds, including the chance to play as a carnival performer, adding a unique flair to your character's backstory.
Third-party content
While our focus has been on first-party content, we couldn't resist mentioning a few standout third-party titles. Strongholds and Followers by MCDM Productions offers rules for players to establish bases and recruit NPC allies, while Flee, Mortals! and its companion Where Evil Lives revamp D&D monsters and provide new challenges. Tome of Beasts and Creature Codex from Kobold Press add a wealth of new creatures, especially useful for high-level play. Finally, Grim Hollow by Ghostfire Gaming introduces a darker, more intense setting for those looking to explore beyond the standard D&D worlds.
And there you have it: our top picks for the best Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025. What do you think? Have we missed any of your favorites? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or check out our favorite D&D dice sets and D&D merch and gift ideas for more inspiration.
