Multiclassing/Dipping Shame

[OldTrees1]

I really get the impression the designers of 5E didn't particularly want 3E-style multiclassing, but people demanded it, so it had to be included. Another one on the list of pretty bad ideas that became tradition so they have to stick around.

Level by level multiclassing is a very useful tool for designers. It allows them to make fewer base class while having a larger list of virtual base classes.

I think it is a good idea for optional content. It does not need to be used, but it allows players with non standard characters to play D&D instead of leaving to find another RPG that can handle their character concepts.

For example, in the absence of a lycanthrope PC species, you could have a 5E Totem Barbarian / Moon Druid to represent a warrior that is fighting to hold back the beast within. Start the fight as a calm fighter. On round 2 activate Rage as combat decreases your efforts to hold back the beast. On round 3-4 Wildshape into the beast within.