Rogue Subclass Striker

Thief Rogue Guide

You hone your skills in the art of theft. Burglars, bandits, cutpurses, and other criminals typically follow this archetype, but so do adventurers who prefer cunning over brute force. You gain abilities that help you move quickly and use objects with unusual skill.

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Best Races for Thief Rogue

All 10 races ranked by synergy with the Thief. Click any to see the full build.

Halfling Thief Rogue 9/10

Natural stealth abilities enhance the Rogue's ability to operate unseen.

Human Thief Rogue 7/10

An extra skill proficiency expands the Rogue's out-of-combat versatility.

Elf Thief Rogue 6/10

Elf Darkvision helps Rogues scout ahead and fight in darkness without needing a torch.

#4Aasimar Rogue 5/10 #5Dragonborn Rogue 5/10 #6Dwarf Rogue 4/10 #7Gnome Rogue 4/10 #8Orc Rogue 4/10 #9Tiefling Rogue 4/10 #10Goliath Rogue 3/10

Thief Features

Fast Hands

Level 3

You can use the bonus action granted by your Cunning Action to make a Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check, use your thieves' tools to disarm a trap or open a lock, or take the Use an Object action.

Second-Story Work

Level 3

You gain the ability to climb faster than normal; climbing no longer costs you extra movement. In addition, when you make a running jump, the distance you cover increases by a number of feet equal to your Dexterity modifier.

Supreme Sneak

Level 9

You have advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks if you move no more than half your speed on the same turn.

Use Magic Device

Level 13

You have learned enough about how magic works that you can improvise the use of magic items. You ignore all class, race, and level requirements on the use of magic items.

Thief's Reflexes

Level 17

You have become adept at laying ambushes and quickly escaping danger. You can take two turns during the first round of any combat. You take your first turn at your normal initiative and your second turn at your initiative minus 10. You can't use this feature when you are surprised.

Is Thief Right for You?

Pick the Thief if you want a Rogue focused on dealing heavy single-target damage. Compare it with the other Rogue subclasses to make sure it fits your party, then build the Halfling version for the strongest start.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best race for a Thief Rogue?

Halfling rates highest (9/10) for the Thief Rogue. Natural stealth abilities enhance the Rogue's ability to operate unseen. Human (7/10) and Elf (6/10) are also strong picks.

What does the Thief specialize in?

The Thief fills the Striker role — dealing heavy single-target damage. Its features unlock at levels 3, 9, 13, 17.

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