When Wizards of the Coast begins releasing the revised Fifth Edition rules for Dungeons & Dragons this summer, the role-playing game’s three core rulebooks will get a completely new look. They also come in two different editions: a more traditional set available at mass retailers, and a collectible alternative art set only available at local game stores. After weeks of teases and reveals, we finally know what all six books will look like.
The core books are illustrated, front and back, by Tyler Jacobson – the same artist who provided art for the covers of the Player’s Handbook (2014) and the Dungeon Master’s Guide (2014). But as you’ll see in the images below, his style is subtly different here, with a more dreamy look on the front that matches the timeless nature of the subjects. More accurate views emphasize the character’s facial expressions on the back. Jacobson said earlier this week prints will be available soon on his website.
The alternate covers, on the other hand (including the collectible Player’s Handbook first revealed here on Polygon) are from two different artists: Wylie Beckert And Olena Richards — they are united with a unique filigree design from signmaker Simen Meijer. That’s the same artist who created the collector’s cover Candle mysteries.
Due to the printing volume required to produce all three hardcover volumes, the release of all three books will take until next year. The Player’s Handbook (2024) will be available for pre-order from June 18 before arriving in local game stores on September 3. Fans can expect Dungeon Master’s Guide (2024) a little later in November, with Monster Manual (2025) arrival in February.
Player’s Handbook (2024)
Dungeon Master’s Guide (2024)
Monster manual (2025)