1. What is the 5e Point Buy System?

The D&D 5e Point Buy system (updated for 2024) allows players to customize their character's ability scores by spending from a pool of 27 points. Each ability score from 8 to 15 has an associated point cost, with higher scores costing more points.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard 2024 point buy costs:

Where the cost table is:

• 8 — 0 points
• 9 — 1 point
• 10 — 2 points
• 11 — 3 points
• 12 — 4 points
• 13 — 5 points
• 14 — 7 points
• 15 — 9 points

Explanation: The standard array (15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8) costs exactly 27 points. You cannot have scores below 8 or above 15 in standard point buy.

3. Importance of Point Buy

Details: Point buy ensures balanced characters and prevents extreme min-maxing while allowing customization. It's the recommended method for organized play and balanced campaigns.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select each ability score from the dropdown menus. The calculator will show your total points used and remaining points (out of 27). Aim to spend all or most of your points for an optimal character.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are there any changes in the 2024 point buy system?
A: The 2024 system maintains the same point costs as previous 5e, but some rulebooks may offer variant point totals (e.g., 30 points for high-powered games).

Q2: Can I have scores below 8 or above 15?
A: Not with standard point buy. Some DMs may allow expanded ranges with adjusted point costs.

Q3: What's the most efficient point distribution?
A: Typically one or two high scores (15/14) in key abilities, with others at 12-13 for secondary abilities and 8 in dump stats.

Q4: How does this compare to rolling stats?
A: Point buy guarantees balanced characters while rolling can create stronger or weaker characters randomly.

Q5: Can I save unused points?
A: No, unused points are lost. The system is designed to spend all 27 points.