System

Best 5e Compatible TTRPGs

What is 5e Compatible?

These are tabletop RPGs that either use a recognizably 5e-adjacent rules chassis or sit close enough to the broader D&D family that a 5e player can learn them quickly. Some are direct descendants. Others are adjacent fantasy systems with overlapping assumptions around classes, monsters, adventures, and d20-driven play.

Why play 5e compatible games?

This category is useful if you want familiar mechanics, low onboarding friction, or a system that can sit near your existing D&D shelf without feeling like a full reset. It is narrower than a general d20 bucket: the goal here is not just d20 resolution, but games that still feel meaningfully close to the 5e ecosystem.

18 games All categories
Full list

All games in this category

13th Age
Rank #3

13th Age

13th Age is a fantasy role-playing game that synthesizes the tactical depth of traditional d20 systems with narrative-driven elements, enhancing character and story development. The game is known for its "Icon Relationships" and "One Unique Things," which provide each character with a distinct narrative hook and personal story within the game world. It encourages creativity and flexibility in gameplay, allowing for both combat and story to receive equal attention and innovation.
Old-School Essentials
Rank #8

Old-School Essentials

Old-School Essentials is a role-playing game that revitalizes the classic Basic/Expert rules from the 1980s, offering a meticulously organized and easy-to-use system that's both new player-friendly and deeply satisfying for veterans. It features a modular design that is fully compatible with decades of old-school content, supporting a wide array of adventures and settings. The game focuses on simplicity and flexibility, encouraging creative storytelling and exploration.