Armorer 5e

Artificers who specialize in arcane armor, creating magical power suits that can switch between defensive Guardian mode and stealthy Infiltrator mode. Armorers are versatile tanks or infiltrators.

Part of the Artificer class

At a Glance

Parent Class
Artificer
Subclass Level
3rd level
Source
Tasha's Cauldron of Everything
Focus
Arcane armor with Guardian or Infiltrator modes for tanking or stealth

Key Features

FeatureLevelDescription
Arcane Armor3rdTurn any heavy armor into arcane armor that you're proficient with, can don/doff as an action, and can use as spellcasting focus.
Armor Model3rdChoose Guardian (thunder gauntlets, temp HP, taunt) or Infiltrator (lightning launcher, speed, stealth) mode. Switch on short rest.
Extra Attack5thAttack twice when taking the Attack action.
Armor Modifications9thArmor counts as separate items for infusions - helmet, suit, boots, and weapon (4 infusions on one armor!).
Perfected Armor15thGuardian: pull enemies 30ft and knock prone. Infiltrator: deal extra lightning damage once per turn.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Forgetting you can switch armor modes on a short rest
Common Mistake
Not using the Guardian mode's taunt effectively to protect allies
Common Mistake
Missing that Armor Modifications lets you stack 4 infusions on your armor

DM Tips

DM Tip
Guardian mode makes excellent tanks with forced disadvantage on attacking others
DM Tip
Infiltrator mode has no stealth disadvantage in heavy armor - great for scouting
DM Tip
The armor is flexible - encourage creative uses of both modes

Sources & Further Reading