7 Iconic D&D Monsters That Need a Serious Overhaul

The fifth edition of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D 5e) is arguably the most impactful version of the game, attracting an unprecedented number of players. Its popularity stems from its streamlined and simplified rules, making it more accessible. However, this ease comes with a trade-off. Longtime players often refer to D&D 5e as the simplest form of Dungeons & Dragons, and the Monster Manual serves as evidence. The challenge rating system requires adjustment, while many monsters have been significantly weakened from their original versions, stripping them of some of their distinctive traits. Conversely, certain monsters possess overpowered abilities that make combating them a terrifying ordeal. Wizards of the Coast has an upcoming opportunity to address these issues, and it’s on the horizon.

In a short while, an updated edition of the “Monster Manual” for “Dungeons & Dragons” will be released, and Wizards of the Coast is preparing to rectify several problematic creatures. Here are some crucial monsters that the Monster Manual should focus on improving:

1. The Goblin
2. The Ghoul
3. The Owlbear
4. The Dragon (various types)
5. The Mimic
6. The Beholder
7. The Tarrasque
8. The White Dragon
9. The Black Dragon
10. The Red Dragon

(Note: This list is not exhaustive, and other monsters may require attention as well.)

The Tarrasque

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons, the Tarrasque is recognized as one of the deadliest and most emblematic monsters. It boasts a CR (Challenge Rating) of 30, the maximum in D&D 5e, but some argue that this rating doesn’t seem justified. The revised version of the Tarrasque transforms it from an indiscriminate force of devastation into a large and rather simple-minded creature. This isn’t to suggest that it lacks power, but it has been redefined primarily as a brute in melee combat. Players often joke that a level one ranger, even on horseback, could single-handedly slay a Tarrasque, and this jest holds some truth (provided they have enough arrows).

Earlier versions of D&D portrayed the Tarrasque as an almost catastrophic entity, and the latest Monster Manual should aim to resemble that original form. However, it doesn’t have to regain its previous level of power, otherwise, you might end up with another Tarrasque from a cut-off toe! Unfortunately, the 5th edition version seems to lack the punch it once had. In earlier editions, the Tarrasque was nearly invincible, often requiring a Wish spell or divine intervention to defeat. Standing beside the version that can be defeated by a level one ranger, it’s clear that D&D 5e has underplayed this iconic monster.

Ancient Dragon

As a devoted gamer, I can’t help but feel disheartened by the transformation of dragons in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition. The iconic monsters, whose very presence is signified by the name itself, have been significantly toned down, particularly ancient dragons.

In their current form, ancient dragons are essentially oversized flying reptiles with a breath weapon and an intimidating aura. However, they were once so much more than that – highly intelligent beings, not just mindless killers or gold-hoarders.

The latest Monster Manual needs to restore the grandeur of these ancient creatures, bringing back their complexity, cunning, and the intricate tapestry of their personalities. After all, they are dragons, not mere giant lizards with a penchant for gold.

To effectively restore the power and prestige of ancient dragons in D&D 5e, it’s essential to reinstate their magical casting abilities. Previous editions showcased the intelligence and might of these creatures through an array of spells and abilities, far more numerous than those available to modern counterparts. In earlier versions, dragons possessed the ability to cast spells, with some even able to transform into human form. This raises a question: If dragons cannot cast spells in D&D 5e, then how do sorcerers harness natural magic through their dragon bloodlines? Additionally, enhancing their statistics would significantly contribute to portraying ancient dragons as the formidable adversaries they once were.

Lich

In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), another legendary monster is the lich; however, the liches in the 5th Edition don’t stand out significantly from ordinary spellcasters. This can be disheartening for iconic liches like Vecna, Acererak, and Ssaz Tam, who feel their immense power is not adequately represented in D&D 5e. As powerful entities like Vecna ascended to godhood, it’s clear that liches hold immense potential. It would be fitting for these creatures to have more depth and complexity to reflect their intelligence and power.

Liches are formidable enemies due to their ability to buy time through the use of phylacteries, which allow them to regenerate their bodies after death. This endless supply of time enables them to meticulously plan and execute complex strategies. Moreover, they possess sufficient intellect to establish defenses and assemble minions, making it all the more challenging to defeat them. It is up to the Dungeon Master (DM) to devise engaging combat encounters against liches, with the latest Monster Manual offering suggestions on how to make these ancient beings more formidable and intriguing adversaries compared to high-level spellcasters.

Beholder

In simpler terms, the Beholder – a well-known monster from Dungeons & Dragons often featured on game covers like the latest Monster Manual – can be one of the most challenging encounters for players if the dungeon master portrays it as a highly intelligent and suspicious creature. However, some players might find this alone insufficient. The Beholder possesses the ability to manipulate reality, primarily when it sleeps, yet this power is seldom depicted in its statistical data. The current Monster Manual provides an alternative rule set for variant abilities; however, these mainly involve spellcasting as a substitute for its eye rays. In other words, players are seeking more creative and engaging ways to experience the Beholder’s unique powers beyond just its intelligence and paranoia.

In the upcoming Monster Manual release, it’s crucial that Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) enhances Beholders with abilities that truly represent their power to manipulate reality. This could be achieved through legendary or lair actions, incorporating a random table to symbolize the chaotic nature of this ability. As of now, reality warping is only a minor event during slumber, but integrating it into combat skills might trigger feelings like anger or fear among the adventurers fighting the Beholder. Such emotions could summon unpredictable effects to challenge the party and enrich the encounter experience.

Banshee

Encounters with Banshees can range from being incredibly fun to extremely frustrating for players. The Wail ability, often categorized as “save or suck” abilities, can have serious consequences if a player fails their roll. This results in the character being instantly knocked out, leaving them helpless unless they receive healing. If an entire party gets affected, the Banshee has essentially performed a total party kill (TPK) with a single attack. Such an event might necessitate restarting the campaign due to a monster of only Challenge Rating 4 (CR 4).

In the current edition of the Monster Manual, adjusting the Wail ability is what Wizards of the Coast should consider. Altering the Wail so it deals only half damage or adding extra effects such as stunning or paralyzing would keep the Banshee strong while eliminating the save or suck feature. Enhancing its damage output, armor class, or health can compensate for losing its most potent attack, which will help make the Banshee seem more balanced and fair.

Intellect Devourer

This well-known and unsettling creature is yet another instance of creatures that offer either salvation or destruction, but this one’s impact is more devastating than the Banshee. Known as the Intellect Devourer, its “Consume Mind” action can be utterly destructive, particularly because many characters consider Intelligence as a secondary stat. This ability reduces a foe’s Intelligence, and if the target fails by a significant margin, it can lower it to zero. A single roll could render a player helpless until they regain an Intelligence point, which is not straightforward unless the game master shows mercy. The danger is further intensified by the Body Snatcher ability, which can result in a player’s death if no action is taken within a single round of combat.

To make the Intellect Devourer less lethal, we could tone down its abilities. Instead of instantly wiping out a character’s Intelligence, it could instead decrease Intelligence by 1d4 points. This adjustment would still be devastating but give players a chance to adapt and survive. Similarly, increasing the time limit for the Body Snatcher ability might help balance the encounter. Currently, it can be challenging to dislodge an Intellect Devourer from a character’s body within a single round, and once it has taken hold, the consequences are permanent unless a Wish spell is cast.

Mind Flayer

Among the most legendary creatures in Dungeons & Dragons are the Beholders, Mind Flayers (Illithids), and others. Similar to other monsters on this list, they’ve been misrepresented, largely due to the way 5e D&D manages Psionics. In contrast to traditional magic, Psionics involve manipulating and directing psychic and mental energy. Unfortunately, in 5e D&D, Psionics have been turned into a form of spellcasting, which fits the system but is not an accurate portrayal.

In summary, the current version of Mind Flayers in D&D 5e is weaker than expected due to their psionic abilities being subject to counterspelling. This could be rectified in the next Monster Manual, not only improving the Mind Flayer’s capabilities but also introducing a fresh system for players to explore. The older editions’ Psionics were powerful and engaging, but have been underutilized in this edition. A revamp of this system would significantly enhance the role of Mind Flayers both in combat and out, offering new possibilities for players to enjoy.

The fresh edition of the Monster Manual for Dungeons & Dragons strives to be the most comprehensive and adaptable within the series. It features entirely novel monster variants, new illustrations of monsters, but perhaps most significantly, updated stat sheets for monsters. Ideally, these creatures will receive the recognition they warrant and become more engaging to employ and face off against in gameplay.

2025-01-24 06:10