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D&D continues doing the Lawful Neutral thing by putting updated D&D 2024 Core Rulebooks under Creative Commons License

by: Randy - posted: 5/27/2025 10:47:00 PM
More On: Dungeons & Dragons

This update is especially relevant for creators—those making Dungeons & Dragons content for sale on sites like DriveThruRPG and Dungeon Masters Guild.

Wizards of the Coast has updated its System Reference Document 5.1 to SRD 5.2.1. For those unfamiliar, the SRD (System Reference Document) is a streamlined version of D&D’s core rules. It’s what third-party creators use as a foundation for compatible content.

And continuing to make good on its promises from 2023, Wizards has put this new SRD 5.2.1 under a Creative Commons License.

SRD 5.1 corresponded to D&D 5th Edition, released in 2014. SRD 5.2.1 reflects the updated rules in the 2024 Core Rulebooks, released for the game's 50th Anniversary. The update includes key mechanical changes and rule clarifications, such as:

  • Heroic Inspiration (new): Replaces the old Inspiration mechanic. You now reroll a d20 instead of gaining Advantage.

  • Utilize Action (renamed): The “Use an Object” action is now called “Utilize.”

  • Surprise (revised): Being surprised no longer stops you from acting on your first turn. Instead, it gives you Disadvantage on your Initiative roll.

Because SRD 5.2.1 is released under a Creative Commons License, creators can continue to copy, share, adapt, remix, and even sell content based on it—without asking for permission from Wizards of the Coast.

All that’s required is proper attribution to Wizards of the Coast, a link to the license, and a note indicating whether changes were made.

Keep making things for D&D, creators. I’ve relied on your stuff more than once in my campaigns. I ran The Test of High Sorcery in Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen. I’ve used Volo’s Vetted Vendors to enrich shopping trips along the Sword Coast. And I bought The Lazy DM’s Companion to support Mike Shea—who helped bring me back to D&D after a 25-year hiatus.

So thank you, Wizards of the Coast, for continuing to do the right thing. By placing SRD 5.2.1 under the Creative Commons License, you empower third-party creators to keep making great content—content that enhances your already incredible adventures.

If you're more interested in the new Core Rulebooks themselves, we've reviewed the Player’s Handbook, Dungeon Master’s Guide, and Monster Manual. Spoiler: they're all excellent.