illrigger 5e pdf

Illrigger 5e: A Comprehensive Guide (Updated 11/28/2025)

Finding the Illrigger 5e PDF requires navigating third-party content, as it isn’t official Wizards of the Coast material. MCDM Productions, and Matt Colville’s streams, are key resources.

Several websites host the document, but ensure downloads are from reputable sources to avoid malware. Always verify the file’s integrity before opening it, safeguarding your system.

The Illrigger class, created by MCDM Productions, gained prominence through Colville’s Dungeons & Dragons streaming series, offering a unique martial-magic blend.

What is an Illrigger?

Illriggers represent a fascinating new class within the Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition landscape, born from the creative mind of game designer Matt Colville and further developed by MCDM Productions; They are fundamentally elite operatives of evil, acting as emissaries of powerful Archdevils from the Nine Hells, bound by a solemn oath to enact infernal will upon the mortal plane.

Unlike traditional spellcasters or warriors, Illriggers blend martial prowess with potent, dark magic derived directly from their pact with a specific Archdevil. This unique combination allows for versatile gameplay, adapting to various combat roles and strategic approaches. The class emphasizes a trinity of core abilities: Strength (or Dexterity) for physical might, Charisma for channeling infernal power, and Constitution for resilience.

Accessing the full details of this class typically involves obtaining the Illrigger 5e PDF, a document detailing all rules, features, and subclass options. It’s a semi-official class, gaining traction through online streams and communities.

The Origins of the Illrigger Class

The Illrigger class emerged as a third-party creation, primarily through the efforts of MCDM Productions, gaining significant visibility thanks to Matt Colville’s popular Dungeons & Dragons streaming series. Its genesis lies in a desire to explore a character archetype deeply entrenched in infernal pacts and wielding a unique blend of martial skill and dark magic.

Unlike classes originating directly from Wizards of the Coast, the Illrigger’s development was driven by community feedback and Colville’s design philosophy. The initial concept took shape in late 2024, with the Illrigger 5e PDF becoming available for playtesting and refinement. This iterative process allowed for balancing and feature adjustments based on player experiences.

The class’s origins are somewhat unusual, representing a “semi-official” addition to the D&D 5e ecosystem, fueled by a celebrity DM and a dedicated fanbase eager for innovative character options.

Matt Colville and the Illrigger’s Development

Matt Colville played a pivotal role in bringing the Illrigger to life, showcasing the class within his Dungeons & Dragons streaming series. He didn’t solely create the class – that credit goes to MCDM Productions – but his platform was instrumental in its widespread adoption and refinement. Colville’s streams served as a live playtest environment, providing invaluable feedback on the class’s balance and functionality.

The debut of the Illrigger occurred earlier in the week of November 28th, 2025, during one of these streams. Colville’s involvement extended beyond simply playing the class; he actively engaged with viewers, discussing design choices and potential improvements. The Illrigger 5e PDF was readily available for those wanting to follow along and experiment.

His influence helped shape the Illrigger into a compelling and popular option for players seeking a darker, more morally ambiguous character archetype.

Core Mechanics of the Illrigger

Illrigger 5e PDF details a class built around a pact with an Archdevil, blending martial prowess with infernal magic, and utilizing Charisma heavily.

Key Ability Scores

The Illrigger 5e PDF clearly outlines that this class uniquely balances physical and magical capabilities, demanding careful consideration of ability score allocation. Strength or Dexterity forms the foundation, dictating effectiveness in melee combat and influencing attack rolls and damage output. However, the Illrigger’s true power stems from their infernal pact.

Charisma is paramount, serving as the conduit for their dark magic and bolstering the potency of their Desolation’s Reach and Dark Pact abilities. A high Charisma score directly impacts the effectiveness of their spellcasting and interactions with their Archdevil patron. Constitution is also crucial, providing the resilience needed to withstand the rigors of combat and the corrupting influence of their infernal connection.

Intelligence and Wisdom are less critical, though not entirely irrelevant, depending on the player’s desired build and roleplaying choices. The Illrigger 5e PDF emphasizes a build prioritizing Strength/Dexterity, Charisma, and Constitution for optimal performance.

The Order of Desolation

As detailed within the Illrigger 5e PDF, the Order of Desolation serves as the central organization for these emissaries of the Nine Hells. It’s a clandestine network of agents dedicated to enacting the will of their respective Archdevils on the Material Plane. Illriggers aren’t simply individuals wielding infernal power; they are instruments of a larger, sinister agenda.

The Order operates in the shadows, manipulating events and sowing discord to further the goals of the Hells. Membership is granted through a binding pact with an Archdevil, a commitment that grants immense power but demands unwavering loyalty and obedience. The Illrigger 5e PDF highlights the Order’s strict hierarchy and the consequences of failing to meet expectations.

Illriggers function as spies, assassins, and enforcers, carrying out the dark decrees of their patrons. Their actions are often subtle, aimed at corrupting societies from within rather than through overt displays of force.

Pact with an Archdevil

The core of the Illrigger class, as extensively detailed in the Illrigger 5e PDF, revolves around a profound and binding pact forged with one of the Nine Hells’ ruling Archdevils. This isn’t a casual agreement; it’s a soul-altering commitment that defines an Illrigger’s powers and purpose. The pact grants access to infernal magic and abilities, but at a significant cost – unwavering servitude.

The Illrigger 5e PDF outlines the specific benefits and drawbacks associated with each Archdevil, influencing the Illrigger’s subclass and playstyle. Choosing an Archdevil isn’t merely a mechanical decision; it’s a narrative one, shaping the character’s alignment and motivations.

Breaking the pact is virtually impossible, and attempts to do so typically result in dire consequences, often involving the Archdevil reclaiming the Illrigger’s soul. This pact is the source of their power, and their ultimate destiny.

Illrigger Subclasses (Devils & Their Influence)

Illrigger 5e PDF details nine subclasses, each tied to a powerful Archdevil. These pacts grant unique abilities, shaping combat styles and infernal powers.

The Asmodeus Illrigger

The Illrigger 5e PDF reveals that those bound to Asmodeus, the Lord of the Nine Hells, embody calculated dominance and strategic power. This subclass focuses on control and manipulation, reflecting Asmodeus’s own meticulous nature. Players choosing this path gain abilities centered around binding enemies and exploiting weaknesses.

Asmodeus Illriggers excel at battlefield control, utilizing spells and abilities to restrict movement and impose disadvantage. The PDF details features that enhance their ability to dictate the flow of combat, turning opponents against each other. They are masters of infernal contracts, gaining advantages through shrewd negotiations with lesser devils.

Expect abilities that bolster defenses and amplify damage against bound foes. The Asmodeus pact emphasizes a methodical, almost clinical approach to conflict, prioritizing efficiency and minimizing risk. This subclass is ideal for players who enjoy a cerebral playstyle.

The Baalzebul Illrigger

According to the Illrigger 5e PDF, those who pledge themselves to Baalzebul, the Lord of Lies, become masters of deception and subtle corruption. This subclass emphasizes trickery, poison, and the slow erosion of an enemy’s will. Baalzebul Illriggers aren’t about brute force; they prefer to dismantle opposition from within.

The PDF details abilities focused on illusion, disguise, and the application of debilitating poisons. They excel at sowing discord and manipulating others to do their bidding. Expect features that grant advantage on deception checks and enhance the potency of toxins. This path favors a cunning and patient playstyle.

Baalzebul’s influence manifests in abilities that weaken defenses and create openings for allies. They are the architects of ruin, preferring to watch their enemies unravel rather than engage in direct confrontation.

The Dispater Illrigger

The Illrigger 5e PDF reveals that those bound to Dispater, the Iron Duke, embody control, order, and ruthless efficiency. Dispater Illriggers are masters of fortification, strategy, and dominating the battlefield through calculated maneuvers. This subclass leans heavily into defensive tactics and battlefield control.

Expect abilities detailed in the PDF that enhance armor, grant bonuses to defensive rolls, and allow manipulation of the terrain. Dispater’s influence manifests as an unwavering resolve and an aptitude for turning an enemy’s strength against them. They excel at creating impenetrable defenses and dictating the flow of combat.

These Illriggers aren’t flashy; they are the unyielding bulwark, slowly grinding down opponents with relentless pressure and tactical superiority.

The Fierna Illrigger

The Illrigger 5e PDF details how those who pledge themselves to Fierna, the Duchess of Hell, become masters of temptation, illusion, and subtle manipulation. Fierna Illriggers excel at sowing discord, exploiting weaknesses, and achieving their goals through guile rather than brute force. This subclass focuses on enchantment and deception.

Expect abilities within the PDF that grant proficiency in deception, enhance charm spells, and allow the creation of convincing illusions. Fierna’s influence manifests as an alluring presence and an uncanny ability to read and exploit the desires of others. They are adept at turning allies against each other.

These Illriggers are the puppet masters, subtly controlling events from the shadows and achieving victory through cunning and seduction.

The Glasya Illrigger

The Illrigger 5e PDF outlines the path for those bound to Glasya, the Lord of the Sixth Layer of Hell. Glasya Illriggers are masters of intrigue, espionage, and subtle assassination, operating as shadowy agents within mortal societies. This subclass emphasizes stealth, deception, and precise strikes.

The PDF details abilities granting proficiency in stealth, disguise, and poison use. Glasya’s influence manifests as an uncanny ability to blend into crowds, gather information, and eliminate targets without detection. Expect features enhancing critical hits and granting advantages on attack rolls.

These Illriggers are the silent blades, enacting their archdevil’s will through covert operations and eliminating threats before they can materialize.

The Levistus Illrigger

The Illrigger 5e PDF details the chilling path of those devoted to Levistus, the Lord of the Ninth Layer, Stygia – a realm of ice and despair. Levistus Illriggers embody cold, calculated power, focusing on control, endurance, and debilitating their foes. This subclass excels at battlefield control and attrition.

The PDF reveals abilities granting resistance to cold damage, enhanced durability, and the power to slow or paralyze enemies. Levistus’s influence manifests as an aura of chilling despair, weakening opponents’ resolve and physical capabilities. Expect features that enhance defensive capabilities and impose disadvantage on enemy attacks.

These Illriggers are the unyielding sentinels, slowly grinding down their enemies with relentless, icy force.

The Mammon Illrigger

The Illrigger 5e PDF unveils the avaricious path of the Mammon Illrigger, bound to the Archdevil of greed and contracts. These operatives prioritize wealth, influence, and the accumulation of power through shrewd deals and exploitation. Expect a focus on manipulation, resource control, and bolstering personal gain.

The PDF details abilities that enhance Charisma-based skills, allowing for masterful negotiation and deception. Mammon Illriggers gain access to spells and features that generate wealth, control markets, and even bind creatures through infernal contracts. They excel at acquiring information and leveraging it for profit.

This subclass embodies ruthless ambition, turning every encounter into a potential transaction, always seeking to maximize their own advantage.

The Mephistopheles Illrigger

Delving into the Illrigger 5e PDF reveals the Mephistopheles pact, a path focused on knowledge, secrets, and subtle manipulation. These Illriggers serve the Archdevil of intellect, prioritizing arcane power and the unraveling of hidden truths. Expect a playstyle centered around deception, illusion, and control through information.

The PDF details abilities enhancing Intelligence and Charisma, granting access to potent illusion spells and skills in investigation. Mephistopheles Illriggers excel at uncovering weaknesses, exploiting vulnerabilities, and subtly influencing events from the shadows. They are masters of disguise and psychological warfare.

This subclass embodies cunning and intellectual superiority, viewing others as pawns in their elaborate schemes, always seeking to expand their understanding and control.

The Zariel Illrigger

Examining the Illrigger 5e PDF unveils the Zariel pact, a brutal path embodying righteous fury and relentless aggression. These Illriggers serve the Archdevil of war, channeling martial prowess and divine wrath. Expect a combat-focused playstyle, excelling in direct confrontation and overwhelming force.

The PDF details abilities boosting Strength and Constitution, granting access to powerful combat maneuvers and protective spells. Zariel Illriggers are frontline warriors, inspiring allies and crushing enemies with unwavering determination. They thrive in the chaos of battle, embodying unwavering courage.

This subclass represents unwavering conviction and martial dominance, viewing conflict as a sacred duty, always striving for victory and glory on the battlefield.

Illrigger Class Features

Illrigger 5e PDF details core features like Infernal Empowerment, Desolation’s Reach, and Dark Pact Abilities, defining the class’s unique blend of martial skill and infernal magic.

Infernal Empowerment

As detailed within the Illrigger 5e PDF, Infernal Empowerment is a cornerstone of the class, representing the pact made with an Archdevil. This feature grants Illriggers access to a unique pool of magical power fueled by their patron’s influence.

The PDF explains that this empowerment manifests as ‘Desolation Dice’ – special dice used to augment attacks and abilities. These dice scale with level, increasing the potency of the Illrigger’s infernal magic.

Furthermore, the Illrigger 5e PDF clarifies that the type of Archdevil chosen significantly impacts how this empowerment functions, offering distinct benefits and tactical options. For example, an Asmodeus Illrigger might gain bonuses to damage, while a Levistus Illrigger could focus on debilitating control effects.

Mastering the strategic use of Desolation Dice is crucial for maximizing an Illrigger’s effectiveness in combat and beyond, as outlined in the comprehensive guide.

Desolation’s Reach

According to the Illrigger 5e PDF, Desolation’s Reach is a defining class feature, enabling Illriggers to extend their influence and attacks across the battlefield. This ability allows them to channel infernal energy into a ranged attack, impacting enemies from a distance.

The Illrigger 5e PDF details that Desolation’s Reach utilizes the Desolation Dice, further integrating the Archdevil pact into core mechanics. The range and effects of this ability evolve as the Illrigger gains levels, becoming increasingly devastating.

Importantly, the PDF emphasizes that Desolation’s Reach isn’t solely a damage-dealing tool; it can also be used to apply debilitating conditions or manipulate the environment, reflecting the cunning and strategic nature of the class.

Understanding the nuances of Desolation’s Reach, as presented in the guide, is vital for any Illrigger seeking to control the flow of combat and embody the will of their patron.

Dark Pact Abilities

The Illrigger 5e PDF meticulously outlines the Dark Pact Abilities, the source of the class’s unique magical power derived from their bond with an Archdevil. These abilities aren’t simply spells; they are extensions of the Archdevil’s influence, manifesting as potent combat options and utility effects.

As detailed in the Illrigger 5e PDF, the specific abilities gained depend entirely on the chosen Archdevil patron. Each devil offers a distinct suite of powers, shaping the Illrigger’s playstyle and thematic identity.

The PDF clarifies that these abilities scale with level, becoming more powerful and versatile. Illriggers can customize their pact further through specific choices, tailoring their powers to suit their preferred combat role and strategic approach.

Mastering these Dark Pact Abilities, as described within the guide, is crucial for maximizing the Illrigger’s potential and truly embodying the essence of their infernal pact.

Illrigger in Combat

The Illrigger 5e PDF reveals a flexible class, excelling in melee or ranged combat, with infernal magic augmenting physical prowess and tactical options.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Analyzing the Illrigger 5e PDF reveals significant strengths. Illriggers boast a potent blend of martial capability and infernal magic, offering versatility in combat. Their reliance on Charisma for spellcasting and pact abilities allows for strong social interactions and manipulation, alongside battlefield control.

However, the class isn’t without weaknesses. Dependence on a specific Archdevil pact can limit roleplaying flexibility, and potentially create narrative constraints. The Illrigger’s effectiveness is tied to maintaining their pact, making them vulnerable to effects that sever such connections.

Furthermore, while resilient, they aren’t exceptionally durable compared to dedicated tank classes. Balancing infernal power with physical combat requires careful resource management, and a poorly optimized build can struggle with sustained damage output.

Optimal Combat Roles

Reviewing the Illrigger 5e PDF highlights several optimal combat roles. The class excels as a front-line skirmisher, utilizing infernal empowerment and martial prowess to disrupt enemy formations. Builds focusing on Strength or Dexterity, combined with Charisma-fueled spells, create effective damage dealers.

Illriggers can also function as battlefield controllers, employing dark pact abilities to hinder opponents and protect allies. Their versatility allows adaptation to various encounter types, shifting between damage, control, and support as needed.

However, excelling in a single role often requires specialization. A dedicated damage dealer might sacrifice control options, while a controller may lack sustained offensive power. Understanding these trade-offs, as detailed in the Illrigger guide, is crucial for maximizing combat effectiveness.

Synergies with Party Members

The Illrigger 5e PDF demonstrates strong synergistic potential within a party. Their ability to control the battlefield complements damage-focused classes like Fighters or Rogues, creating openings for significant attacks. Illriggers’ inherent resilience allows them to protect squishier spellcasters, such as Wizards or Sorcerers.

Furthermore, the class’s Charisma-based abilities can enhance social encounters, supporting party faces like Bards or Paladins. A well-played Illrigger can act as a flexible support character, adapting to the party’s needs in both combat and exploration.

However, effective synergy requires communication and coordination. Understanding each party member’s strengths and weaknesses, as outlined in character build guides, is vital for maximizing the Illrigger’s supportive capabilities.

Resources for Illrigger Players

Finding the Illrigger 5e PDF is the first step; MCDM Productions and Matt Colville’s content are essential starting points for players.

Where to Find the Illrigger 5e PDF

Locating the Illrigger 5e PDF requires understanding it’s a third-party class created by MCDM Productions and popularized through Matt Colville’s streaming series. It isn’t officially published by Wizards of the Coast, meaning direct access differs from standard D&D materials.

Several online platforms host the PDF, but caution is advised. DriveThruRPG is a frequently cited source, offering a relatively secure download environment. However, always verify the file’s legitimacy and scan for potential malware before opening. Unofficial sources may exist, but carry inherent risks.

MCDM Productions’ website and associated Patreon may also provide access, potentially with updated versions or supplementary materials. Colville’s streams and related community links often share information regarding the PDF’s location. Remember to support content creators when possible!

Online Communities and Forums

Engaging with Illrigger 5e communities is invaluable for players seeking advice, builds, and updated information. Reddit’s r/DnD and dedicated D&D subreddits frequently discuss the class, offering a space for questions and shared experiences. Matt Colville’s online presence, including his website and associated forums, provides direct access to creator insights.

Discord servers dedicated to Dungeons & Dragons and specifically to the Illrigger class are thriving hubs for real-time discussion. These platforms allow for quick answers to rules questions and collaborative character building.

DriveThruRPG’s forums and MCDM Productions’ community pages also host discussions. Remember to respect community guidelines and contribute constructively. These spaces are vital for staying current with evolving interpretations and homebrew content related to the Illrigger.

Character Build Guides

Optimizing your Illrigger 5e character benefits greatly from dedicated build guides. Several online resources offer detailed breakdowns of effective strategies, focusing on subclass synergies and ability score prioritization. YouTube channels specializing in D&D 5e content, like those featuring Matt Colville, often showcase Illrigger builds.

Websites dedicated to D&D character optimization provide in-depth analyses of feats, spells, and multiclassing options suitable for the Illrigger. These guides frequently emphasize the class’s reliance on Charisma and Constitution, alongside Strength or Dexterity.

Consider exploring builds tailored to specific Archdevil pacts, as each subclass dramatically alters the Illrigger’s playstyle. Remember to adapt guides to your campaign’s specific rules and your personal preferences.