Can I True Polymorph Into an Archmage?
The short answer is a resounding no. While the idea of transforming into a powerful archmage might seem enticing, the rules of Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition (5e) specifically prevent this. The Archmage stat block in the Monster Manual is not a creature in the same sense as a dragon or a goblin; it’s an NPC template, an example of a powerful spellcaster, not a valid polymorph target. True Polymorph is a potent spell, but it’s crucial to understand its limitations, and using an Archmage isn’t within those parameters.
Understanding True Polymorph
True Polymorph is a 9th-level transmutation spell that allows you to transform a creature into a different creature or an object into a creature, permanently if concentration is maintained for the full duration of the spell. It’s a staple spell for any high-level caster, offering tremendous versatility and power. However, it’s crucial to understand that while the spell allows for various transformations, there are several specific restrictions in place to prevent it from becoming unbalanced.
Key Limitations
- Creature Target: You can transform a creature into another creature, as long as the target is not a shapechanger and as long as the target is a valid creature stat block, not an NPC template like the Archmage.
- Object Target: You can transform an object into a creature, as long as the creature’s size is no larger than the object’s size and the creature’s challenge rating (CR) is 9 or lower.
- Challenge Rating (CR) Restriction: When transforming a creature into another creature, there’s no CR limitation, as long as both are considered creatures and the spell is not used on a shapechanger.
- The Archmage Is Not A Creature: It is a stat block, an NPC template, it’s not a creature in the context of True Polymorph.
Why the Archmage Fails as a True Polymorph Target
The Archmage entry in the Monster Manual is presented as an example of a powerful non-player character, not a monster stat block in the same way that a dragon, a goblin, or a beholder is. It’s an example of what a powerful spellcaster might look like stat-wise, but it’s not a creature intended to be used as a transformation target. Think of it as a collection of stat modifications, spells, and features, but not a separate species of creature.
The core function of True Polymorph is to alter the form of something into another existing form. Since the Archmage is a template, there is no true “archmage form” or species, therefore, it cannot be used with True Polymorph. It’s the difference between transforming into a specific breed of a dog versus trying to transform into the abstract concept of a “dog owner.” It simply doesn’t fit within the established rules of the spell.
Frequently Asked Questions About True Polymorph
Here are some frequently asked questions, providing detailed insights into the mechanics and limitations of True Polymorph:
1. Can I Turn Into A Tarrasque Using True Polymorph?
No. The Tarrasque has a CR of 30, and since player characters don’t reach levels above 20, you cannot transform into a Tarrasque with spells like Polymorph or True Polymorph. These spells are restricted to targets with a CR equal to or below the character’s level.
2. Can I True Polymorph Into a Magic Item?
No, you cannot create magic items with True Polymorph. The spell allows for creature-to-creature and object-to-creature transformations, not creature-to-magic-item or object-to-magic-item transformations.
3. Can I True Polymorph Into a Shapechanger?
Yes, you can attempt to True Polymorph a shapechanger, but the spell would be ineffective. The target will instantly revert back. The spell has no lasting effect on shapechangers.
4. Can True Polymorph Become Permanent?
Yes. If you maintain concentration on True Polymorph for its full duration (1 hour), the transformation becomes permanent. However, it remains until dispelled; it’s not truly irreversible. Also, this duration does not affect shapechangers.
5. Can I True Polymorph Into a Dragon?
Yes, you can. An Ancient Brass Dragon, for instance, is a valid target, and the spell will allow you to transform into that creature if you meet the level requirements.
6. Can I Live Forever With True Polymorph?
No. True Polymorph can change your form, but it does not grant immortality. The spell’s effect is not permanent and can be dispelled, and it does not affect aging.
7. What Is The Best Way To Use True Polymorph?
The best use varies, but a common tactic is to use Wish granting creatures like a Gynosphinx. With a Gynosphinx you can use its Wish spell on others or yourself for varied powerful effects, essentially making you a much more powerful character. Also, another great option is to create a creature from an object that acts as a powerful companion.
8. Can I Polymorph Into a Mind Flayer?
Yes. You can use Polymorph to transform into a Mind Flayer, which has its own set of deadly attacks. Monsters don’t suffer from the mental handicaps associated with players eating brains, as they lack traditional INT scores.
9. Can I Twin Spell True Polymorph?
Yes, you can use the Twinned Spell metamagic option with True Polymorph. This allows you to target two creatures with the spell. The spell being a concentration spell does not prevent this.
10. Does True Polymorph Allow Legendary Resistance?
Yes. Unlike Shapechange, True Polymorph does not explicitly strip away legendary resistances and actions from the target. This means if you turn into a legendary creature using True Polymorph you retain your legendary status, making them an extremely potent polymorph choice.
11. Can I Become Immortal with True Polymorph?
No, True Polymorph will not make you immortal. While it can change your age, it will not stop your biological clock. If you wish for immortality, the Clone spell is a much better option for this.
12. Can True Polymorph Be Reversed?
Yes. Even if you maintain concentration for the full duration, the transformation is only permanent until dispelled. It can be removed by other spells like Remove Curse, Dispel Magic, or through an Antimagic Field.
13. Can I Cast Spells After True Polymorphing?
No. True Polymorph removes your spellcasting abilities, and you can only perform the actions that the new form is capable of. Therefore, unless your new form can cast spells or has other abilities you cannot.
14. What Happens When a True Polymorphed Creature Dies?
If the transformed creature dies, the True Polymorph effect ends, and the creature reverts back to its original form. However, if the creature was killed without dropping it to 0 hit points it remains dead when it changes back.
15. Can True Seeing See Through True Polymorph?
Yes. True Seeing allows you to see through illusions, disguise, and the true form of polymorphed beings.
Conclusion
While the temptation to become an archmage via True Polymorph is understandable, the rules of the game don’t allow for it. Understanding the nuances and limitations of spells like True Polymorph is crucial for a strategic and fulfilling D&D campaign. It is a powerful spell, but not all-powerful, so knowing your limitations is the key to success.