Runestar
2010-06-16, 08:05 AM
Dungeonscape released the dungeonbred template, which basically de-advances a creature by 1 size category. It is not as bad as it sounds; the creature gets free INA on all its attacks, effectively retains its con score, -4str, free endurance (which paves the way for feats such as steadfast determination and diehard) amongst other minor benefits.
I understand the intention is to make larger monsters more viable and maneuverable in enclosed dungeon environments, but I couldn't help but notice that many monsters tend to be disadvantaged. Smaller size and lower strength means smaller reach and lower success rates on their special attacks such as grapple or trip (though I suppose less grappling means less headaches for everyone). :smallwink:
Just for fun, I applied it to a tarrasque, only to discover that its AC actually decreased slightly, though it got a small bonus on its attack rolls, which when funneled to damage via power attack, more than offsets the reduced strength. But mostly just for the kicks of a 4x4 tarrasque. Just bear in mind that it can be forcecaged now. :smallbiggrin:
This then got me thinking - what sort of creatures do you think benefit most from it. Beholder comes to mind, it gets improved flight capabilities and better ranged attack rolls. A manticore can make a viable ranged attacker, netting +2 to-hit. Advancing a creature to the next size category, then reducing it via dungeonbred would help mask its true prowess, leading the party to think it is weaker than it actually is.
I understand that as a +0cr template, the final product shouldn't be any stronger than the original creature, but hey, we are talking about optimization here...:smalltongue:
Suggestions? Opinions? Experiences? :smallsmile:
I understand the intention is to make larger monsters more viable and maneuverable in enclosed dungeon environments, but I couldn't help but notice that many monsters tend to be disadvantaged. Smaller size and lower strength means smaller reach and lower success rates on their special attacks such as grapple or trip (though I suppose less grappling means less headaches for everyone). :smallwink:
Just for fun, I applied it to a tarrasque, only to discover that its AC actually decreased slightly, though it got a small bonus on its attack rolls, which when funneled to damage via power attack, more than offsets the reduced strength. But mostly just for the kicks of a 4x4 tarrasque. Just bear in mind that it can be forcecaged now. :smallbiggrin:
This then got me thinking - what sort of creatures do you think benefit most from it. Beholder comes to mind, it gets improved flight capabilities and better ranged attack rolls. A manticore can make a viable ranged attacker, netting +2 to-hit. Advancing a creature to the next size category, then reducing it via dungeonbred would help mask its true prowess, leading the party to think it is weaker than it actually is.
I understand that as a +0cr template, the final product shouldn't be any stronger than the original creature, but hey, we are talking about optimization here...:smalltongue:
Suggestions? Opinions? Experiences? :smallsmile: