Goliath Abjurer Wizard Build Guide
Combining the physical resilience of a Goliath with the magical shielding of an Abjurer Wizard creates the ultimate arcane defender who refuses to fall.
Is a Goliath Abjurer Wizard a good build in D&D 5e?
The Goliath Abjurer Wizard rates 3/10 for synergy in D&D 5e and plays as an unconventional defender. Its defining advantage is Giant Ancestry — Giant Ancestry grants a supernatural ability that enhances the Wizard's combat or utility. Recommended ability scores using the standard array are INT 15, CON 14, DEX 13, WIS 12, CHA 10, STR 8, prioritising INT as the Wizard's main ability, with a d6 hit die. It has 32 hit points at level 5 and 68 at level 11, with a baseline of about 10.2 spell damage per round at level 11 before magic items and feats. Main strength: Abjurer grants Abjuration Savant at level 3. Trade-off: Low hit points — vulnerable in melee. Overall difficulty to play: medium.
Calculated from the 2024 D&D rules (SRD 5.2) using the standard array. Full breakdown below.
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Why Abjurer?
Wizards are typically known as "squishy" glass cannons, but the Goliath Abjurer turns this stereotype on its head to act as a frontline defender. By choosing this subclass, you gain the Arcane Ward feature, which creates a magical shield of hit points that absorbs damage before it can touch your actual health pool.
This magical barrier pairs beautifully with your Goliath traits. Your Giant Ancestry helps you shrug off physical threats, while your Large Form trait lets you grow in size, expanding your physical presence on the battlefield to block enemies. When you reach level 6, Projected Ward allows you to use your magical shield to protect your allies, making you a true guardian.
With an optimal Intelligence of 15 and Constitution of 14, you have both the mental power to cast devastating spells and the physical stamina to maintain focus in the heat of battle. You aren't just a spellcaster hiding in the back; you are a towering wall of arcane defense.
Abjurer Features
Abjuration Savant
Level 3The gold and time you spend to copy abjuration spells into your spellbook is halved.
Arcane Ward
Level 3When you cast an abjuration spell of 1st level or higher, you can create a magical ward on yourself. The ward has hit points equal to twice your wizard level + your Intelligence modifier. Whenever you take damage, the ward takes the damage instead. If the damage reduces the ward to 0 hit points, you take any remaining damage. When you cast an abjuration spell of 1st level or higher, the ward regains hit points equal to twice the spell's level.
Projected Ward
Level 6When a creature you can see within 30 feet takes damage, you can use your reaction to cause your Arcane Ward to absorb that damage. If the damage reduces the ward to 0 hit points, the warded creature takes any remaining damage.
Spell Breaker
Level 10When you cast the Counterspell or Dispel Magic spell, you add your proficiency bonus to your ability check if one is required.
Spell Resistance
Level 14You have advantage on saving throws against spells. Furthermore, you have resistance against the damage of spells.
Recommended Ability Scores
Goliath Traits That Benefit Abjurer Wizard
Giant Ancestry
Giant Ancestry grants a supernatural ability that enhances the Wizard's combat or utility.
Powerful Build
Enhanced size and carrying capacity complement the Wizard's physical combat style.
Large Form
Enhanced size and carrying capacity complement the Wizard's physical combat style.
Combat Effectiveness
| Level | HP | Melee DPR | Spell DPR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 | 32 | 3.9 | 7.8 |
| Level 11 | 68 | 3.58 | 10.18 |
| Level 17 | 104 | 3.58 | 13.2 |
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Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- ♦ Abjurer grants Abjuration Savant at level 3
- ♦ Versatile spellcasting options
- ♦ Flexible build with room for customization
Weaknesses
- ♦ Low hit points — vulnerable in melee
- ♦ No Darkvision — may need light sources in dungeons
Pro Tips
Cast abjuration spells like Mage Armor or Shield early in the day to fully charge your Arcane Ward before combat begins.
Use Projected Ward to intercept damage meant for your squishier allies, keeping your team fighting longer in tough encounters.
Activate your Large Form during choke-point battles to block narrow hallways, forcing enemies to deal with your magical shields first.
Lean on your 14 Constitution to maintain concentration on vital spells while your Arcane Ward absorbs hits that would normally disrupt your casting.
Other Wizard Subclasses for Goliath
Other Races for Abjurer Wizard
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Abjurer a good subclass for Goliath Wizard?
What makes Abjurer different from other Wizard subclasses?
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