Gen Con 2024: Dungeons & Dragons Reveals First Look at 2025 Monster Manual

Gen Con 2024: Dungeons & Dragons Reveals First Look at 2025 Monster Manual

As a long-time Dungeon Master and avid fan of the D&D universe, the recent unveiling of the new statblocks from Wizards of the Coast for the upcoming Monster Manual has left me positively giddy with excitement! The reimagined Ancient Green Dragon, Kuo-Toa, and assorted Skeletons are not just refreshing updates, but a testament to the game’s ever-evolving spirit.


In a recent press event, game developer Wizards of the Coast unveiled preliminary stat sheets for upcoming monsters in their 2025 “Monster Manual”. These include the Ancient Green Dragon, Kuo-Toa, and various types of Skeletons. The new stat sheets offer a sneak peek into the revamped creature designs and how certain monsters might be adapted in future publications. However, Wizards emphasized that these are work-in-progress versions and may undergo changes before their official release next February 2025.

The revamped Ancient Green Dragon profile presents significant alterations. Although its Challenge Rating (CR) remains constant, it gains a slight boost in hit points but forfeits proficiency in Constitution and Charisma saving throws. Notably, it has abandoned the Frightful Presence action and adopted spellcasting abilities, with a focus on enchantment spells. Now, during a Multiattack action, it can choose to execute three rend attacks (general physical assaults, replacing specific wing, tail, and claw attacks) or two rend attacks and cast an at-will spell. Also, the Ancient Green Dragon no longer possesses Legendary Actions; instead, it has enhanced reaction capabilities, including some that mimic a Legendary Action. It’s uncertain if the dragon features Lair actions, but its stat block suggests more reactions when within its lair. The complete profile can be found below.

Gen Con 2024: Dungeons & Dragons Reveals First Look at 2025 Monster Manual

In essence, the characteristics of the Kuo-toa have undergone minor adjustments. One passive ability has been transformed into a reaction. Now, the base spear attack consistently inflicts 1d8+1 damage, regardless of how it’s being held. The Sticky Net and Sticky Shield abilities remain unaltered in function but have been rephrased for clarity and brevity. Lastly, the Kuo-toa has been classified as an aberration, and their appearance has been revised to reflect this new classification.

Gen Con 2024: Dungeons & Dragons Reveals First Look at 2025 Monster Manual

As a fervent enthusiast, I was thrilled to witness the unveiling of several Skeleton statblocks, among which a flaming newcomer, the Flaming Skeleton creature, caught my eye. Each skeletal adversary received its unique touch – the Warhorse Skeleton’s Hooves attack now has the potential to knock prone an enemy if the Warhorse charges swiftly enough. On the other hand, the Minotaur Skeleton boasts reduced Health Points compared to its counterparts.

Gen Con 2024: Dungeons & Dragons Reveals First Look at 2025 Monster Manual

As a long-time Dungeons & Dragons player and enthusiast, I have been eagerly anticipating the release of the new “Monster Manual.” Having played numerous campaigns with various versions over the years, I can confidently say that this latest edition promises to bring fresh and exciting changes to familiar creatures. The stats provided offer a glimpse into the new approach taken by the creators in updating these classic monsters. With more previews on the horizon, I am optimistic about what the future holds for my gaming experiences and the thrill of encountering new challenges as I delve deeper into the rich world of D&D.

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2024-08-02 04:39