Why do 5e modules have no stats embedded in description blocks for the dm? Older rule versions did include stats in the descriptions. Made it a lot easier and less downtime for players. Thanks for comments.
Why do 5e modules have no stats embedded in description blocks for the dm?
Well, web-based versions of modules, such as the ones on D&D Beyond, do have embedded stat blocks. Print books don't do it because 5th edition stat blocks are vastly larger than AD&D stat blocks and including them would bloat it beyond readability.
I see your point. I should've been clearer. I meant that they include just basic stats for quick reference, HP, weapon/armor, etc. I should just keep a list of common types with stats on hand.
I see your point. I should've been clearer. I meant that they include just basic stats for quick reference, HP, weapon/armor, etc. I should just keep a list of common types with stats on hand.
In a nutshell yes. Because published monster stat data might change, based on context of module, and assumptions about minimum party composition.
Always best to have a monster rolodex at the ready.
I see your point. I should've been clearer. I meant that they include just basic stats for quick reference, HP, weapon/armor, etc. I should just keep a list of common types with stats on hand.
The problem is that even the minimum usable stat block is a lot more complicated than an AD&D statblock, because a tremendous number of things were keyed directly off of HD in AD&D, and that's not true in 5e.
It's probably assumed the DM has the Monster Manual(s) and it's cheaper not having to reprint them. Custom creatures for the module will have stat blocks. And those seem to later appear in new Monster Manuals, such as Volo's Guide to Monsters.
The more books we have to reference when we DM, the more fun we're having?
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Why do 5e modules have no stats embedded in description blocks for the dm? Older rule versions did include stats in the descriptions. Made it a lot easier and less downtime for players. Thanks for comments.
Well, web-based versions of modules, such as the ones on D&D Beyond, do have embedded stat blocks. Print books don't do it because 5th edition stat blocks are vastly larger than AD&D stat blocks and including them would bloat it beyond readability.
I see your point. I should've been clearer. I meant that they include just basic stats for quick reference, HP, weapon/armor, etc. I should just keep a list of common types with stats on hand.
In a nutshell yes. Because published monster stat data might change, based on context of module, and assumptions about minimum party composition.
Always best to have a monster rolodex at the ready.
The problem is that even the minimum usable stat block is a lot more complicated than an AD&D statblock, because a tremendous number of things were keyed directly off of HD in AD&D, and that's not true in 5e.
It's probably assumed the DM has the Monster Manual(s) and it's cheaper not having to reprint them. Custom creatures for the module will have stat blocks. And those seem to later appear in new Monster Manuals, such as Volo's Guide to Monsters.
The more books we have to reference when we DM, the more fun we're having?