Homebrew Crabkin Species Details

"Meeting Kaela, the Crabkin, was like stepping into a world of wonder and resilience. Their crab-like legs and powerful claws spoke of a life well-suited to both land and sea. But it was the magnificent shell on their back, adorned with intricate patterns and stories of generations past, that truly captured my imagination. Kaela's presence was a testament to adaptability, strength, and the enduring spirit of the Crabkin. In their eyes, I saw the wisdom of the tides and the secrets of the deep. Traveling with Kaela was a journey through worlds, a reminder that even in the harshest of environments, beauty and friendship can thrive."

— Elowen Stormrider, Wanderer of Wonders

 The Crabkin are a unique and adaptable race, known for their resilience, cooperation, and their ability to thrive in both land and water. They play various roles in the world, each shaped by their natural abilities and communal values.

Variety of Appearances

Crabkin are a unique and striking race, known for their distinctive physical features and their adaptation to aquatic environments. They exhibit a combination of humanoid and crustacean characteristics, making them instantly recognizable. The most defining feature of a Crabkin is their tough exoskeleton, which covers their entire body. This exoskeleton is composed of chitinous plates and provides them with excellent protection. It varies in color, with shades of blue, green, brown, and even vibrant coral-like hues. The patterns on their exoskeletons often mimic underwater flora and fauna, allowing them to blend into their aquatic surroundings. Crabkin have a stocky and robust build, with broad shoulders and thick limbs. Their muscular bodies are well-suited for both land and water, reflecting their adaptability to various environments.

One of the most distinctive features of Crabkin is their powerful crab-like claws, which are located on their upper limbs. These claws are formidable weapons and tools, capable of delivering precise strikes and even gripping objects with surprising strength. Their lower limbs are equipped with crab-like legs, complete with jointed segments and sturdy pincers. These legs grant them stability and agility, whether walking on land or navigating underwater terrain. Crabkin have unique eye stalks that protrude from their faces, allowing them to see their surroundings more effectively. These eye stalks are versatile and can swivel in different directions, providing them with keen vision. Due to their aquatic nature, Crabkin may have specialized adaptations like webbed digits or gills on their necks, further enhancing their ability to thrive in underwater environments.

Crabkins have exoskeletons with patterns and colors that can change slightly over time, reflecting their emotions and experiences. Bright, vibrant colors often indicate happiness or excitement, while muted or darker colors may suggest more subdued emotions like sadness or introspection.

Detecting emotions in Crabkins can be challenging due to their unique physiology and communication methods. To determine if a Crabkin is sad, observers should pay attention to cues such as muted or darker exoskeleton colors, drooping or less active eye stalks, slower movements, folded claws, isolation, changes in vocalizations, reduced appetite, disinterest in communal activities, and somber artistic expressions. Conversely, signs of happiness and cheeriness in Crabkins may include vibrant and colorful exoskeleton patterns, active and alert eye stalks, lively and engaged movements, raised and animated claws, active participation in communal events, joyful vocalizations, and an enthusiastic appetite for seafood and other delicacies. Understanding Crabkin emotions requires careful observation and consideration of various visual and behavioral cues.

Protectors of Coastal Communities

Many Crabkin communities are found along coastlines, where they serve as natural protectors of coastal settlements. Their amphibious nature allows them to defend these communities both on land and in the sea. Crabkin guards are a common sight patrolling beaches and shoreline villages, ensuring safety from threats that may come from the waves or the land.

Explorers of Underwater Realms

With their swimming speed and ability to breathe underwater, Crabkin make exceptional underwater explorers. They often venture into the depths of the oceans, uncovering hidden treasures, ancient ruins, and uncharted territories. Their underwater expeditions contribute to the world's knowledge of underwater ecosystems and the mysteries that lie beneath the waves.

Nautical Navigators

Crabkin are valued members of maritime crews due to their affinity for the sea. They excel as navigators, sailors, and fishermen, contributing their skills to successful sea voyages. Their adaptability and resilience make them well-suited for long journeys across treacherous waters.

Adventurers and Problem Solvers

Some Crabkin are drawn to the adventuring life, using their unique abilities to tackle complex challenges and seek out hidden mysteries. Whether on land or underwater, Crabkin adventurers are known for their resourcefulness and ability to adapt to diverse environments and situations.

Diverse Communities

Crabkin communities are often close-knit and harmonious, with a strong emphasis on cooperation and shared knowledge. They live in coastal villages, underwater colonies, and sometimes even within larger coastal cities. These communities celebrate their molting cycles as markers of growth and development and place great value on the wisdom of their elders.

Coastal Villages: Many Crabkin communities are established in picturesque coastal villages, where they live in harmony with the rhythms of the tides. These villages are often nestled in natural coves, protected from storms and predators. Crabkin homes are typically built from a combination of natural materials like shells, coral, and driftwood, as well as more conventional construction materials. The architecture blends seamlessly with the coastal environment and often incorporates aquatic motifs and vibrant colors. Village structures may include communal gathering areas, net-making workshops, and storage facilities for seafood and other resources.

Underwater Colonies: Some Crabkin communities take their homes beneath the waves, building intricate underwater colonies. These colonies are constructed from materials like coral and reinforced with natural adhesives. They often feature a network of tunnels and chambers, allowing Crabkin to navigate the underwater terrain efficiently. Luminescent aquatic plants provide light in these colonies, creating an otherworldly ambiance. Many underwater colonies are designed with chambers dedicated to various functions, such as communal dining areas, molting chambers, and storage rooms. The architecture of underwater colonies showcases Crabkin ingenuity in creating sustainable and functional habitats beneath the sea.

Integration with Coastal Cities: In larger coastal cities, Crabkin communities often integrate with the surface-dwelling races. They establish neighborhoods along the waterfront, blending their unique architectural styles with those of other races. This integration fosters trade, cultural exchange, and cooperation between Crabkin and their neighbors. Crabkin are valued members of these cities, often serving as guards, sailors, or navigators for maritime activities. Their expertise in coastal environments and underwater exploration is highly sought after, contributing to the prosperity of coastal metropolises.

Communal Values: Crabkin communities place a strong emphasis on cooperation, shared knowledge, and mutual support. Elders and experienced individuals play vital roles in mentoring and guiding the younger generations. Communal gatherings and feasts are common, fostering a sense of unity and celebration within the community. Crabkin also maintain a deep connection to the natural world, with many communities participating in rituals and ceremonies that honor the sea and its inhabitants.

Molting Celebrations: One of the most significant community events in Crabkin society is the celebration of molting cycles. When a Crabkin undergoes a molt, the entire community often comes together to support and celebrate this transformative event. Festivities include storytelling, feasting on freshly caught seafood, and the creation of art and crafts inspired by the sea. The molted exoskeleton is adorned with intricate designs, reflecting the individual's experiences and achievements. It becomes a cherished artifact, symbolizing growth, resilience, and community bonds.

Coastal Guardians: Many Crabkin communities serve as natural protectors of coastal regions. Their amphibious nature allows them to defend these communities from threats that may emerge from the sea or the land. Crabkin guards and warriors are a common sight patrolling beaches, shores, and the waters surrounding their villages. They take their roles seriously and often form close-knit bonds while safeguarding their homes.

Economic Contributions: Crabkin contribute significantly to the economic activities of coastal regions. They excel in roles related to maritime trade, navigation, fishing, and underwater exploration. Their adaptability and resilience make them valuable assets to coastal cities, ensuring safe sea voyages and the sustainable management of coastal resources.

Adaptable Leadership

Crabkin society revolves around communal harmony, emphasizing cooperation, unity, and their profound connection to the natural world. Leadership within Crabkin communities is often decentralized, with decisions collectively made by councils of elders and respected individuals. These councils, composed of experienced members who have undergone multiple molting cycles, provide invaluable guidance and wisdom in governance, conflict resolution, and resource management. Additionally, Crabkin value merit-based leadership, allowing younger individuals who demonstrate exceptional skills and resourcefulness to rise to leadership roles. Leadership positions encompass various responsibilities such as coastal guardians, navigators, fishermen, and artisans, reflecting the community's diverse needs. Molting cycles and leadership transitions are celebrated events that signify growth and adaptation, often leading to shifts in leadership roles. Crabkin leaders must be adaptive and open to change, considering the well-being of both land and sea, as coastal environments present dynamic challenges that require thoughtful decision-making. Conflict resolution within Crabkin communities prioritizes mediation and dialogue, fostering peaceful coexistence and unity. The sea holds profound cultural and spiritual significance, inspiring rituals, ceremonies, and artistic expressions that celebrate their connection to the natural world. Crabkin society thrives on its enduring spirit of resilience, adaptability, and its strong commitment to the welfare of their communities.

Crabkin Diet

Crabkins have a diverse and seafood-centric diet that reflects their coastal and underwater lifestyles. Their cuisine revolves around an array of aquatic delicacies, including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and various types of seafood. They expertly catch, gather, and prepare these ingredients, often using their powerful crab-like claws to access the delicious meat within shells. Aquatic vegetation, such as seaweed and algae, also plays a significant role in their diet, providing essential nutrients.

Their culinary preferences highlight the flavors of the sea, with dishes that feature the natural tastes of the ocean. Crabkins savor the delicate sweetness of freshly caught fish, the rich and savory flavors of crustaceans, and the briny essence of mollusks. They may create seafood stews, grilled or roasted fish, and shellfish platters adorned with local herbs and seaweed. Complementing their seafood-centric dishes, some Crabkin communities incorporate fruits and berries from nearby land areas, adding a touch of sweetness to their coastal cuisine. Overall, their culinary traditions celebrate the bountiful offerings of the sea, resulting in a delectable and nourishing diet deeply connected to their coastal environments.

Natural Predators

"Predators, you say? Well, it's a dance we've perfected over generations. You've got your sly sahuagin lurking in the depths, thinking they can outwit us. And those pesky giant crabs, they'll snap at anything that moves. But we Crabkin? We're not so easily caught. Our exoskeletons are like armor, and our claws are swift and deadly. We've learned to move with the currents, sense danger, and vanish into the shadows. So, predators may try, but they'll find us a tough catch."

— Thessa Tidehunter, Crabkin Defender

Crabkins, as a race adapted to coastal and aquatic environments, may face a variety of natural predators in their ecosystems. These predators could include:

Large Aquatic Predators: Marine creatures such as sharks, giant sea turtles, or even predatory fish might pose a threat to Crabkins when they venture into open waters.

Sea Serpents: Mythical or real sea serpents could be formidable foes for Crabkins, especially if they dwell in the deep ocean.

Krakens: These legendary sea monsters are known for their immense size and power. A Kraken could be a fearsome predator of Crabkins, particularly in deep-sea environments.

Giant Crustaceans: Larger and more aggressive species of crustaceans, such as giant lobsters or enormous crabs, might occasionally prey on Crabkins.

Predatory Birds: Coastal regions are often inhabited by birds of prey, which could target Crabkins when they are near the shore or in shallow waters.

Land Predators: When Crabkins venture onto land, they could be vulnerable to terrestrial predators like land-dwelling reptiles or mammals.

Underwater Invertebrates: Some underwater invertebrates, such as certain species of octopuses or cephalopods, might view Crabkins as potential prey.

Rival Races: Depending on the setting, rival aquatic races like Sahuagin or Merrow could be natural predators or threats to Crabkin communities.

 Aging and Molting

Crabkin have relatively long lifespans, with the potential to live up to 80 years or more. Their unique biology and lifestyle are marked by molting cycles that play a significant role in their development and cultural practices.

Adolescence: In the early stages of a Crabkin's life, known as adolescence, they undergo frequent molting events. These molts are essential for their growth and adaptation to their environment. Adolescent Crabkin experience physical changes during these molts, shedding their exoskeletons to accommodate their increasing size. It's during this time that they become acquainted with the world around them, learning to navigate both land and water. These early molts are often celebrated with family and community gatherings, signifying a rite of passage into Crabkin society.

Adulthood: As Crabkin transition from adolescence to adulthood, the frequency of molting decreases. This period marks their growing self-sufficiency and the development of specialized skills. While Crabkin continue to molt periodically throughout their lives, these events become less frequent as they grow older. This transition from frequent molting to a more stable exoskeleton is considered a sign of maturation and independence. Some Crabkin communities hold ceremonies or rites of adulthood to honor this transition, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and cooperation within the community.

Old Age: In their later years, Crabkin enter a phase of life marked by signs of old age. While their exoskeletons remain formidable, they may develop distinctive patterns and markings, reflecting their wisdom and experience. Older Crabkin may take on roles as mentors, passing down their knowledge and skills to younger generations. Their contributions to the community are highly valued, and they often play vital roles in leadership and decision-making processes.

Molting Rituals: Molting events are significant occasions in Crabkin society. These rituals vary from community to community but often involve communal gatherings, feasting, and storytelling. During a molt, a Crabkin temporarily retreats to a safe and secluded location to undergo the process. Fellow Crabkin may assist in the preparation and protection of the molting individual, ensuring their safety during this vulnerable time. The molted exoskeleton is often preserved and adorned with intricate designs and patterns, becoming a cherished artifact in Crabkin culture.

Resilience and Experience: Over time, the toughening of their exoskeletons and the accumulation of life experiences make older Crabkin highly resilient. They are sought after for their wisdom and ability to navigate the challenges of coastal life. Their insights and problem-solving abilities contribute significantly to the well-being of their communities.

Molting as Growth: Molting is seen as a symbol of growth and maturity in Crabkin society. Each molt represents not only physical development but also personal growth and adaptation. Crabkin place great value on the lessons learned from each molt and believe that these experiences contribute to their communal strength and resilience.

Arts and Crabs

Crabkin possess a unique artistic and craftsmanship tradition deeply influenced by their natural surroundings, particularly the ocean and coastal landscapes. Their creations often reflect their strong connection to the sea and the marine life that inhabits it. Here are some aspects of Crabkin artistic and craftsmanship endeavors:

Exoskeleton Artistry: Crabkin artisans take great pride in decorating their exoskeletons with intricate patterns, vivid colors, and ornate carvings. These artistic expressions often tell stories of their personal journeys, community history, or significant life events. The exoskeletons become living canvases that evolve over time as the Crabkin's life experiences shape their art.

Coral Sculptures: Crabkin artists are skilled in crafting sculptures from coral reefs and other underwater materials. These sculptures can range from small, intricate pieces to massive, breathtaking underwater installations. Coral sculptures serve both artistic and functional purposes, providing habitats for marine life and enhancing the beauty of underwater environments.

Seashell Jewelry: Seashells are abundant in coastal regions, and Crabkin artisans use them to create stunning jewelry pieces. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings adorned with carefully selected and polished seashells are popular among Crabkin and are often traded with other coastal communities.

Aquatic Instruments: Crabkin musicians create unique musical instruments designed for underwater performances. These instruments produce ethereal, melodic sounds that resonate through the water, adding a distinct and mesmerizing element to their cultural gatherings and ceremonies.

Underwater Murals: Talented Crabkin painters specialize in creating underwater murals on the submerged surfaces of coastal cliffs and underwater caves. These murals often depict scenes from Crabkin history, marine life, and legendary tales, providing both aesthetic beauty and a sense of cultural identity.

Basketry and Weaving: Crabkin communities utilize underwater plant materials and kelp to craft functional items such as baskets, mats, and fishing nets. These handmade goods showcase the practicality and craftsmanship of Crabkin artisans.

Molting Ceremonies: Crabkin communities celebrate molting cycles with artistic ceremonies that involve dance, music, and visual storytelling. These ceremonies highlight the importance of growth, adaptation, and unity within their society.

Navigational Art: Due to their proficiency as sailors and navigators, Crabkin often incorporate navigational charts and maps into their artwork. These intricate pieces not only serve as guides for sea voyages but also as decorative representations of their deep connection to the ocean.

Crabkin Courtship

Crabkins, with their unique physiology and behaviors, have their own distinct courtship rituals. While the exact details may vary among different Crabkin communities, here are some common elements of Crabkin courtship:

Mating Displays: During the courtship period, Crabkins often engage in elaborate mating displays to attract potential mates. These displays can involve rhythmic movements, showcasing their vibrant exoskeleton colors, and even vocalizations. The displays are intended to demonstrate the fitness and vitality of the courting individuals.

Gift-Giving: Crabkins may engage in gift-giving as a way to court potential mates. These gifts are typically items found in their aquatic environment, such as colorful shells, beautiful pieces of coral, or even freshly caught seafood. The act of offering valuable or aesthetically pleasing gifts can be a sign of affection and commitment.

Dancing: Some Crabkins engage in intricate dances as part of their courtship rituals. These dances often involve synchronized movements and can be quite mesmerizing to watch. Dancing is a way to display agility, coordination, and grace, which are valued qualities in Crabkin society.

Exoskeleton Maintenance: Crabkins take great pride in the appearance of their exoskeletons. During courtship, individuals may spend extra time grooming and cleaning their exoskeletons to appear more attractive to potential mates. This meticulous grooming can also serve as a form of nonverbal communication.

Singing and Chirping: Crabkins possess vocal abilities, and they may use chirps, clicks, or melodic singing to communicate with potential mates. These vocalizations can convey interest, excitement, or affection and are often integrated into their mating displays.

Shared Activities: Crabkins often bond over shared activities, such as exploring underwater caves, hunting for food together, or collaborating on the construction of underwater structures. These joint efforts can strengthen the connection between potential mates.

Physical Contact: As courtship progresses, physical contact becomes more common. This can include grooming one another, embracing with their pincers, or engaging in gentle tactile interactions. Physical contact is a way to establish intimacy and trust.

Commitment Rituals: In some Crabkin communities, there may be formal commitment rituals or ceremonies that symbolize the bond between mates. These rituals often involve the exchange of vows, the sharing of food, and the participation of the entire community to celebrate the union.

It's important to note that Crabkin courtship rituals can vary based on the specific community, cultural traditions, and individual preferences. However, regardless of the specific rituals, courtship among Crabkins is a significant aspect of their lives, and successful courtship often leads to strong, lasting relationships within their communities.

Crabkin Alignment and Values

Crabkin tend to lean toward neutrality in their outlook on life, often adapting to the situations they find themselves in. They prioritize survival, cooperation, and the welfare of their communities. While they can exhibit a wide range of alignments, they typically favor those that align with their communal and pragmatic nature, such as neutral, lawful, or chaotic alignments. However, individual Crabkin vary in their beliefs and can be found across the entire alignment spectrum.

Crabkin contribute a dynamic and adaptable element to the world, making them valuable allies, explorers, and problem solvers. Their presence in coastal regions and underwater realms ensures that their influence is felt both on land and beneath the waves.

Beliefs with the Tides

Religions and Beliefs: Crabkins' religious practices and beliefs are deeply intertwined with their coastal and aquatic environments. They venerate deities and spirits associated with the sea, tides, and the natural world, reflecting their reverence for the forces that sustain their communities. While individual beliefs can vary, there are common themes and aspects of Crabkin spirituality:

Tide Guardians: Many Crabkins worship deities or spirits believed to govern the tides and the rhythms of the ocean. These Tide Guardians are revered for their role in maintaining the balance of coastal ecosystems and providing sustenance to Crabkin communities. Rituals and offerings are made to these deities to ensure bountiful catches and protect against storms and natural disasters.

Ancestral Spirits: Crabkins hold a deep respect for their ancestors, whose wisdom and experiences are believed to guide the living. Ancestral spirits are consulted through rituals and ceremonies, especially during significant life events and challenges. Elders are particularly revered, and their passing is marked by elaborate remembrance rituals.

Nature Spirits: Crabkins often believe in the presence of nature spirits that inhabit their coastal and underwater environments. They seek to maintain harmony with these spirits through acts of conservation, responsible resource management, and rituals that honor the land and sea.

Cooperative Values: Crabkins' communal and cooperative values extend to their spiritual beliefs. They emphasize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural world.

THOUGHTS ON OTHER LIVING CREATURES

"Well, you see, we Crabkin are a bit like the tides, constantly adapting to the ebb and flow of life beneath the waves. When it comes to other races, we hold a deep respect for those who, like us, value the preservation of natural environments. Races that honor the oceans and coastal regions tend to find favor with us.

We appreciate the craftsmanship and resilience of Dwarves, the connection to nature that Elves possess, and the strength and nobility of Dragonborn. We also admire those who share our love for aquatic ecosystems, such as Tritons and Merfolk.

However, it's essential to remember that our perspective is as diverse as the underwater world itself. Some Crabkin may have had positive interactions with specific races and hold them in high regard, while others might have encountered conflicts or misunderstandings. In the end, we strive for cooperation and harmony with the races we encounter, seeking to protect our coastal homes and the creatures that inhabit them."

— Korrin Tidecaller, Draconic Ambassador

The opinions and attitudes of Crabkin toward other races in the world can vary widely among individuals and communities. However, there are some common themes and tendencies that can be observed:

Pragmatism and Adaptability: Crabkin are known for their pragmatic nature and adaptability. They tend to assess other races based on the practical benefits or challenges they present. They are often willing to cooperate with any race that aligns with their values of survival and communal well-being.

Coastal Races: Crabkin generally have positive interactions with races that share coastal regions with them. They often form strong alliances and trade relationships with races like humans, elves, and dwarves who have settlements near the sea.

Aquatic Races: Crabkin share a strong kinship with aquatic races such as Tritons, Merfolk, and Sea Elves. They often collaborate on underwater exploration, trade, and defense of coastal regions.

Distrust of Predatory Races: Crabkin tend to be cautious and distrustful of races known for predatory behavior or hostility. Races like Sahagin, Sahuagin, and Kraken cultists are viewed with suspicion and are often seen as threats to coastal communities.

 Mixed Attitudes: Individual Crabkin can have a wide range of attitudes toward other races. Some may be curious and open-minded, while others may be more reserved or even xenophobic. These attitudes often reflect the individual's personal experiences and upbringing.

 Curiosity About Surface-Dwelling Races: Crabkin, being amphibious, often express curiosity about the surface-dwelling races and their ways of life. They may find the customs, technologies, and cultures of surface-dwelling races intriguing and may seek opportunities for cultural exchange.

Respect for Elder Races: Crabkin have a deep respect for elder races with long histories and ancient wisdom. Races like Elves and Dwarves are often viewed with reverence, and Crabkin may seek their guidance and knowledge.

Crabkin Names

Crabkin names are deeply rooted in their connection to the aquatic world and their close-knit communities. They often incorporate elements of marine life, coastal landscapes, and the resilient spirit of their people. Crabkin may have personal names, childhood nicknames, and community affiliations as part of their full names.

Personal Names: Crabkin personal names are chosen with care and significance. They often reflect elements of the sea, nature, or qualities that hold meaning for the individual. Examples of Crabkin personal names include:

Male Names: Tritonus, Mariscor, Seabreeze, Coralith, Wavebreaker, Tideseeker, Aquatide, Kelpstrider, Shellguard, Pylora.

Female Names: Oceandara, Marilora, Seashellia, Corallia, Surfina, Tidewillow, Aquabloom, Reefira, Nautilusa, Wavecrest.

Childhood Nicknames: Crabkin often have childhood nicknames given by family members or close friends. These nicknames may be descriptive or related to early experiences. Examples of Crabkin childhood nicknames include:

Nicknames: Pebble, Tidechaser, Shelltoes, Guppy, Briney, Splash, Sandclaw, Shorebound, Coralie, Driftwood.

Community Names: The names of Crabkin communities can vary widely, reflecting the unique characteristics and geography of their habitats. Here are some example names for Crabkin communities:

Community Names: Coralhaven, Deepshoals Enclave, Kelpstrand Village, Brinehold Caverns, Pincercliff Outpost, Shellshroud Atoll, Tidewalker Troupe, Saltmarsh Haven, Siltstrider Shoals, Seafarer's Refuge

These names can serve as inspiration for the diverse Crabkin communities found throughout your world's oceans, seas, and coastal regions. Each community may have its own distinct culture, traditions, and ways of life influenced by its unique environment.

Crabkin Traits

Each Crabkin looks different as they molt and adapt. You gain the following racial traits.

Ability Score Increase

Your Constitution score increases by 2, and your Strength score increases by 1.

Age

Crabkin have relatively long lifespans, with the potential to live up to 80 years or more. They undergo molting cycles throughout their lives, which are significant events in their development. Young Crabkin usually molt more frequently, but as they grow older, molting becomes less frequent, and their exoskeletons become tougher and more resilient. These molting cycles can be seen as markers of maturity and growth in Crabkin society.

Alignment

Crabkin tend to lean toward neutrality in their outlook on life, often adapting to the situations they find themselves in. They prioritize survival, cooperation, and the welfare of their communities. While they can exhibit a wide range of alignments, they typically favor those that align with their communal and pragmatic nature, such as neutral, lawful, or chaotic alignments. However, individual Crabkin vary in their beliefs and can be found across the entire alignment spectrum.

Size

Crabkin stand between 5 and 6 feet tall on average, with a stocky and robust build. Their tough exoskeletons give them a solid presence. Your size is considered medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Amphibious

Crabkin have adapted to aquatic life, and their bodies are well-suited to moving through water. You have a swimming speed equal to your walking speed. Additionally, you can breathe both underwater and on land.

Crab Claws

As a Crabkin, you have powerful claws as your upper limbs. These claws can be used to make unarmed strikes, dealing 1d6 + your strength modifier slashing damage. Additionally, when you successfully hit a creature with your claw attack, you can attempt to grapple that creature as a bonus action. You are proficient with these claws.

Crab Exoskeleton

Crabkin's tough exoskeleton provides you with a +2 bonus to you Armor Class (AC) when you are not wearing any armor and not wielding a shield. If you are wearing armor but not wielding a shield, you gain a +1 bonus to your armor class.

Crab Molting

(Choose One at Levels 1, 4, 8, and 12):

Crabkin undergo molting cycles that strengthen your exoskeleton and grant you unique abilities. Choose one of the following features each time you reach a level that grants this trait:

• Hardened Shell: Your exoskeleton is exceptionally tough, reducing the damage you take from attack rolls by 2 points. This reduction applies after all other calculations for damage resistance or vulnerability.
• Razor Claws: Your crab claws become even more formidable. You can now deal an additional 1d6 slashing damage with your crab claw attacks.
• Burrower's Instinct: You develop an instinct for burrowing. You gain the ability to dig through soft earth and sand at a rate of 5 feet per round, allowing you to create small tunnels.
• Echolocation: You develop the ability to emit high-pitched sounds and sense their echoes. You gain blindsight with a range of 15 feet.
• Camouflage: You can blend into your surroundings with incredible skill. You gain proficiency in the Stealth skill, and you have advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks to hide in natural environments.
• Adaptive Swimmer: Your swimming abilities become highly adaptable. You gain the ability to take the Dash action as a bonus action when swimming.
• Swift Climber: Your crab-like limbs grant you exceptional climbing abilities. You gain a climbing speed equal to your walking speed.
• Venomous Claws: Your crab claws secrete a toxic venom. When you hit a creature with a claw attack, the target must succeed on a Constitution saving throw (DC 8 + your Constitution modifier + your proficiency bonus) or be poisoned for 1 minute. A poisoned creature no longer in direct contact with your claws can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success.
• Mighty Build: Your exoskeleton undergoes a transformation, making you exceptionally strong and giving you the "powerful build" trait. You can count as one size category larger when determining your carrying capacity and when making Strength (Athletics) checks to grapple or shove creatures.
• Deep Dweller: Your vision adapts to the darkness of the deep ocean depths. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You ignore any of the drawbacks caused by a deep, underwater environment.
• Natural Armor: While not wearing armor, your Armor Class equals 12 + your Dexterity modifier. You can use a shield and still gain this benefit.
• Claw Barrage: Your crab claws gain the ability to make a flurry of strikes. When you take the Attack action, you can make an additional claw attack as a bonus action.
• Scavenger: You have developed a robust constitution, allowing you to consume a wider range of sustenance. You can safely consume raw or rotten food without suffering ill effects, and you have advantage on saving throws against disease and ingested poisons.
• Winter Adaptation: Crabkin have evolved to thrive in freezing climates. You are acclimated to extreme cold, as described in Chapter 5 of the DMG. This condition no longer causes you to suffer from exhaustion or discomfort and you are unaffected by difficult terrain caused by snow, and you can move through deep snow at your normal speed without any hindrance.
• Desert Adaptation: Crabkin have honed their ability to endure the searing heat of desert environments. You are acclimated to extreme heat, as described in Chapter 5 of the DMG. This condition no longer causes you to suffer from exhaustion or discomfort and you are unaffected by difficult terrain caused by sand, and you can move through deep sand at your normal speed without any hindrance.

You cannot choose the same feature twice.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common, and Aquan