Why Isn’t Owlbear a Beast?
The owlbear is categorized as a monstrosity in the fifth edition of Dungeons & Dragons, which means it doesn’t fit into the beast category, and as a result, druids cannot Wild Shape into one. This classification is due to the owlbear’s unnatural origin, being a cross between a bear and an owl, which sets it apart from other natural creatures that druids can transform into.
Understanding the Owlbear Controversy
The owlbear’s classification as a monstrosity has sparked controversy among players and Dungeon Masters, particularly with regards to the druid’s Wild Shape ability. To address this, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions that provide more insight into the owlbear and its place in the world of Dungeons & Dragons.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is an Owlbear a Beast or a Monstrosity?
An owlbear is categorized as a monstrosity, not a beast, due to its unnatural origin and composition.
2. Can a Druid Turn into an Owlbear?
According to the D&D 5th Edition rules, druids cannot Wild Shape into an owlbear because it is classified as a monstrosity, not a beast.
3. What is the Difference Between a Beast and a Monstrosity?
Beasts are natural creatures, whereas monstrosities are unnatural, often born from magical experiments or curses.
4. Can a Dungeon Master Allow a Druid to Turn into an Owlbear?
Yes, a Dungeon Master may choose to allow a druid to Wild Shape into an owlbear without breaking game balance, considering the owlbear’s stats are similar to those of beasts with the same challenge rating.
5. Is a Crag Cat a Beast or a Monstrosity?
The Crag Cat is classified as a monstrosity, which might seem unusual given its appearance and characteristics that resemble a beast.
6. Can a Tiefling Turn into an Owlbear?
There is no specific rule allowing Tieflings to transform into owlbears, but this could be explored through house rules or unique class and race combinations.
7. Why Can’t a Druid Be an Owlbear?
Druids are limited to Wild Shaping into beasts, and since owlbears are classified as monstrosities, this transformation is not allowed under standard rules.
8. What is the Opposite of an Owlbear?
The bearowl, an original creature, is considered the opposite of an owlbear, featuring a bear’s head on an owl’s body.
9. Can an Owlbear Be Tamed?
While owlbears are difficult to tame due to their intelligence and aggression, it is possible with time, food, and luck to train one to recognize a master.
10. Should I Let the Owlbear Cub Live?
Choosing to let the owlbear cub live can have future benefits, as it may return later in the game, offering unique interactions or quests.
11. Is an Owlbear Evil?
Owlbears are depicted as vicious, aggressive, and evil-tempered, making them formidable and feared creatures in the game.
12. What is the Use of an Owlbear Egg?
Currently, there are no known uses for an owlbear egg other than selling it or using it as camp supplies.
13. How Do You Befriend an Owlbear?
Befriending an owlbear involves interactions that may require playing with the owlbear cub, paying gold, and engaging in private conversations to build a relationship.
14. Can a Druid Turn into a Crag Cat?
Technically, a Circle of the Moon druid can Wild Shape into a Crag Cat at level 2, respecting the restrictions of beast types and challenge ratings.
15. Is a Wild Shaped Druid a Beast?
Yes, a druid in Wild Shape form is considered a beast (or Elemental at level 10) for the purposes of creature type, no longer being classified as a Humanoid.