All tagged monsters

Special Traits for Monsters

Every monster in Dungeons and Dragons has unique traits that make it what it is. These traits include spellcasting, attacks, Legendary Actions, senses, languages, saves, and skill proficiencies. However, what about those sort of – listed traits that don’t fall into those categories? Well, that’s called a ‘Special Trait’, and they’re on most stat blocks for monsters. Special Traits normally encompass passive abilities, such as auras, particularly special senses, additional damage under certain conditions, certain resistances, and basically any other ability that doesn’t fall under the other categories of the stat block. 

Understanding Monster Stat Blocks in 5th Edition

It’s good to understand how creature stat blocks are laid out. Knowing the rules and being able to work off examples is the number one way to get a semblance of balance from the beginning. However, creatures tend to have a lot more going on than magic items, save for the absolute most elaborate ones. This guide will help you understand monster features and how to balance them.