Homebrew Gastrokin Species Details

Gastrokin are a fascinating and adaptive race of humanoids that have evolved to thrive in some of the harshest environments imaginable. Their unique physiology allows them to digest almost anything, gaining temporary or even permanent traits from their consumption. This remarkable ability has shaped their culture, appearance, and behavior, making them one of the most versatile and resourceful races in the world.

Origins and Nature:

Gastrokin originate from regions where food is scarce and survival is a constant challenge. Over generations, they have developed incredibly strong stomachs capable of digesting a wide variety of substances, from the toughest plant fibers to the most toxic animal parts. This adaptability has allowed them to not only survive but also to thrive in places where other races might perish.

Culture and Society:

Gastrokin culture revolves around the concept of adaptation and survival. They place great value on knowledge about different creatures and plants, constantly seeking new sources of nourishment that can provide beneficial traits. Their society is often nomadic, moving to different areas to explore and find new sources of food. They have a deep respect for the natural world and the creatures within it, understanding that their survival is intrinsically linked to the environment.

Physical Characteristics:

Gastrokin have a humanoid shape with skin tones that subtly shift depending on their most recent consumption. This chameleon-like ability helps them blend into their surroundings and reflects their latest dietary intake. Their eyes often glow faintly, intensifying in brightness when they consume something of high quality. They range in height from 5 to 6 feet tall, with a medium build.

Behavior and Personality:

Gastrokin are pragmatic and adaptable, always ready to adjust to new circumstances. Their constant search for new traits makes them curious and open-minded, but it can also make them seem unpredictable or even capricious to others. They value practicality and survival skills, often displaying a calm and resilient demeanor in the face of challenges. Despite their focus on adaptation, they are also known for their hospitality, sharing knowledge and food with allies.

Interaction with Classes and Backgrounds:

Gastrokin can fit into a variety of roles, thanks to their adaptable nature. They excel as Druids and Rangers, leveraging their connection to the natural world and their ability to assimilate traits. As Rogues or Fighters, their adaptability and resilience can provide them with unique advantages in combat. Backgrounds such as Outlander, Hermit, or Sage align well with their origins and lifestyle.

Gastrokin Traits

Ability score improvement: Your Constitution score increases by 2, and your Intelligence score increases by 1. Age: Gastrokin reach maturity by 20 and can live up to 150 years. Alignment: Gastrokin tend toward neutrality, but their interactions with different environments and beings can influence them in various directions. Appearance: Gastrokin have a humanoid shape with skin tones that subtly shift depending on their most recent consumption. Their eyes often glow faintly, but glow brighter if you consume something high quality. Size: Gastrokin range from 5 to 6 feet tall. Your size is Medium. Speed: your base walk speed is 30 feet. Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and one other language of your choice.

Adaptive Consumption

By consuming parts of creatures or plants (requiring an hour and a short rest), you can temporarily gain one of the following traits, lasting until your next long rest. You can only have one adaptive trait at a time. Examples include: (you can make your own) 

Predator’s Claw: Gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls. 

Herbalist’s Insight: Gain proficiency in the Medicine skill. 

Insect’s Agility: Your walking speed increases by 10 feet. 

Metal's strength: gain +1 ac. 

Trait Assimilation

Once per long rest, by consuming a rare or significant part of a creature (like a dragon's scale or a unicorn's horn), you can permanently gain one minor trait or feature from that creature. This trait must be approved by the DM and should not be overpowered (e.g., minor resistances, skills, or abilities). 

Excavator

your teeth are unbreakable. You can do a bite attack that does 1d6 piecing damage, this ignores 5 ac on armor made of metal. If this kills the creature, then activate Adaptive Consumption without the “requiring an hour and a short rest” requirement. 

Digestive Resilience

You have advantage on saving throws against ingested poisons and resistance to poison damage. 

Metabolic Surge

Once per short rest, as a bonus action, you can use the energy from your recent consumption to boost your physical capabilities, this ends the consumption boost. You gain temporary hit points equal to your Constitution modifier + your level.