Dungeons & Dragons is revolutionizing gameplay with its latest playtest class - the Psion. This Intelligence-based spellcaster harnesses mental powers like telekinesis and telepathy, offering players a fresh approach to magical combat and problem-solving. As the first new base class since the Artificer's introduction in 2019, the Psion brings four distinct subclasses, 20 levels of progression, and innovative Wild Talent feats to the table.

While psionics have appeared in various forms throughout D&D's history, this marks their most comprehensive implementation in Fifth Edition. The class draws inspiration from the 2017 Mystic playtest, though it presents a more refined and balanced approach to psychic abilities. Previous psionic elements have appeared in subclasses like the Psi Warrior and Soulknife, but this full-class treatment allows for deeper specialization in mental powers.

Core Mechanics

The Psion introduces several innovative gameplay systems:

• Psionic Energy Dice: A resource system for powering mental abilities
• Psionic Modes: Combat stances that enhance offense or defense
• Disciplines: Specialization options that customize playstyle

With a d6 Hit Die and no armor proficiency, Psions rely on their mental prowess for both offense and defense. Their spellcasting focuses on manipulating reality through sheer willpower rather than traditional arcane or divine magic.

Subclass Specializations

Players can choose from four distinct psionic paths:

1. Metamorph: Shapeshifts their body for combat versatility
2. Psi Warper: Manipulates space for teleportation effects
3. Psykinetic: Masters telekinetic offense and defense
4. Telepath: Specializes in mental communication and control

Each subclass offers unique abilities that dramatically alter how the class plays, ensuring significant variety in character builds.

Wild Talent Feats

The playtest also introduces Wild Talents - specialized feats that allow any character to dabble in psionics. These include:

• Empath: Enhanced emotional perception
• Clairsentience: Limited precognition
• Elemental Manipulation: Cryokinesis and Pyrokinesis

These mutually exclusive feats add new dimensions to character customization without requiring full psionic commitment.

While the Psion's official publication details remain uncertain, its introduction signals Wizards of the Coast's continued commitment to expanding D&D's mechanical and thematic possibilities. The class survey opening on June 3 offers players the chance to shape this exciting new addition to Fifth Edition.

Whether you're drawn to body-warping combat, battlefield teleportation, pure telekinesis, or mental domination, the Psion offers fresh ways to experience Dungeons & Dragons' ever-evolving fantasy universe.