Homebrew Ursines Species Details

Physical Description

Ursines stand between 7 and 8 feet tall, their bodies covered in thick, luxurious fur that ranges in color from stark white, through all shades of brown, to even pitch black. They walk upright on powerful, broad feet, but they can drop to all fours for fast movement when necessary. Their hands end in dexterous fingers tipped with non-retractable claws. Ursines have round heads with large, expressive eyes and short snouts ending in black noses. The males tend to be more muscular and have larger claws, while females are a bit more slender and possess longer, silkier fur.

Background and History
Long ago, the Ursines were normal bears, denizens of the vast forests that covered Ursus Arktos. The world was young, and the ancient magic that breathed life into the world was potent and abundant. Some of the eldest, wisest bears began to change, slowly growing more intelligent and self-aware, acquiring the ability to speak, and stand on their hind legs. These were the first Ursines, and from them, the entire race was born.

The Ursines developed a rich culture focused on harmony with nature and a deep respect for the interconnectedness of all living things. They established settlements within the heart of forests, their homes built into the very trees and rocks to cause as little disruption as possible. Their connection to nature and their pacifist ideals don't mean they are pushovers though; Ursines are renowned warriors, feared for their strength and tenacity. When their homes, friends, or the balance of nature itself is threatened, they fight with the ferocity only a bear could muster.

Ursines don't worship gods; instead, they venerate the spirit of the world itself. They see the world of Ursus Arktos as a living entity, its life force flowing through everything. Ursines tap into this force, which allows them to perform feats others may see as magic. This has earned them a reputation for mysticism and a deep spiritual connection to the world.

Society

Ursines live in tight-knit communities known as clans. Each clan is led by an elder, the oldest and wisest Ursine, who provides guidance and wisdom to their kin. This position is not inherited but rather passed on to whoever shows the most wisdom, empathy, and connection to the world's spirit.

Ursine culture is full of oral tradition. Stories, histories, and spiritual teachings are passed down through generations via storytelling. They believe in living in the present and looking to the future, respecting the past but not being beholden to it.

Overview

Ursines are a race of strength and spirit, bear-like humanoids who exemplify both the power of the wilderness and the wisdom of the ages. They are warriors and philosophers, defenders of nature and keepers of ancient wisdom. As characters, Ursines offer a unique blend of physical prowess, spiritual connection, and charismatic personality. Their deep-rooted connection to nature and the world spirit of Ursus Arktos makes them natural protectors of the land and its creatures, a role they fulfill with dedication and honor.

Ursines Traits

Your Ursines character has the following racial traits.

Ability Score Increase

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

Age

Ursines mature at the same rate humans do and reach adulthood around the age of 20. They live much longer than humans, however, often exceeding 150 years.

Size

Ursines are between 7 and 8 feet tall and weigh between 350 and 450 pounds. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking, climbing, and swimming speed is 40 feet.  Also, due to your size and athletic nature you are not slowed by difficult terrain. 

Darkvision

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 can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

Long-Limbed

When you make a melee attack on your turn, your reach for it is 5 feet greater than normal.

Bear’s Resilience

Your hit point maximum increases by 2, and it increases by 2 every time you gain a level.

Natural Athlete

You are proficient in the Athletics skill.

First Strike

If you surprise a creature and hit it with an attack on your first turn in combat, the attack deals an extra 2d6 damage to it. You can use this trait only once per combat.

Ursine Resistance

You are accustomed to a harsh lifestyle that others would struggle with. You have advantage on Constitution saving throws that you make to maintain your concentration on a spell when you take damage.  You are also resistant to bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from non-magical attacks due to your strong hide. 

Bear’s Charge

If you move at least 20 feet straight toward a creature and then hit it with a melee weapon attack on the same turn, you can immediately follow that attack with a bonus action, making one attack against the creature, as you knock it off balance with your forceful charge.  The target must succeed on a DC 15 Strength Saving Throw or be knocked prone. 

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common and Ursine.