I've been DM'ing for over 20 years from 2nd edition through to 5e and typically when working with new and old players alike, session zero is critical so that I can create the campaign around the character choices the players made.
Session zero is pre-play and typically involves character creation and conversations around what type of game the players may want, do they want a dungeon crawl, a murder mystery, an epic journey, etc.
The primary reason in a four-party game two melees, one healer and a spellcaster is the sweet spot is that with this make up the party has the greatest chance of success across a wide range of situations. Primary is the higher HP/AC and strength, dexterity, and constitution stats of melee-focused characters which can come in very handy in a variety of situations, not least of which is for the protection of the spellcaster who will likely be at mid to higher levels the deciding factor in winning a fight. The healer is also important to heal up the damage the melee characters typically receive along with other support spells such as Bless / Aid, etc.
It is possible to create a melee Cleric at higher levels if you put your bonus points to dexterity, strength, and constitution, though you are limited to bludgeoning weapons such as maces, etc.
Last edited by EquinoxAlpha; 31/10/21 12:57 PM.
