Homebrew Chameleids Species Details

Chameleids are a race of lizardfolk, usually found in humid, tropical and subtropical climates, but occasionally found in more temperate zones. While chameleids are able to walk upright, they are most comfortable in higher places, like the boughs of trees or scaleable cliffs. They are expert climbers, and their uniquely two clawed hands and feet allow them to grab on tight to even the smallest hand and footholds; if a chameleid can grab onto it, then a chameleid can climb it. They have very long tails that are mostly used to wrap around branches or vines as a safety line; when they descend from the trees and enter more populated cities and towns, they keep their tails coiled up close to their body, which usually makes them appear quite a bit smaller than they are. Like other lizardfolk, their upright gait can appear quite unsteady and unbalanced, and chameleids in particular are quite slow on the ground. Chamelieds, owing to their arboreal lives, have a strong connection to nature and the world around them. Though they may be quick of thought and just as intelligent as any other race, their movements, words, and actions are usually very deliberate and are perceived by outside races as slow.

Chameleids have three distinctive features that separate them from other races and indeed other lizardfolk: their eyes are able to move independently of each other, allowing them to look at two things at once; a long, sticky tongue that they use to hunt; and they have the ability to change the color of their scaly skin.

Chameleids may change their color or coloring depending on their mood, whether they’re hungry, if they’re hot or cold, or even if they’re startled. They can even change their coloring to match their surroundings, and use this tactic when they hunt. Their tongues can be up to twice the length of their bodies, and can be fired from their mouths with pinpoint accuracy faster than the eye can see.

Unlike most reptilian humanoids, chameleids do not rely as much on their scales for physical protection, owing to their unique adaptations.

Chameleids Traits

Chameleids have a variety of traits by their nature.

Ability Score Increase

You gain a +2 bonus to your Wisdom and a +1 bonus to Dexterity.

Size

You are bulkier than most humans, and longer when your tail is completely uncurled. Your length, nose to tail can vary from 8-12 feet, but your standing height is only 4-5 feet. Your weight can vary from 180-260 lbs. Your size is Medium.

Color Shift

You are able to change your overall coloring at will. You retain any stripes, splotches, or patterns in your scales.

Sticky Tongue

You can use your long, sticky tongue in and out of combat. As a bonus action, you can stick your tongue to an object or size Small or smaller creature up to 15 ft away. When stuck to a creature, you can make a contested Strength check to determine if you are able to pull the creature towards you. If you fail the contested check, your tongue retracts. A creature can choose to fail the contested check. When stuck to an object, you can pull an object that weighs no more than your Strength score multiplied by 3.

Camouflage

You are able to use your color changing skin to conceal yourself. As an action, you can blend into your surroundings perfectly a number of times equal to your Wisdom modifier per long rest. When you disguise yourself in this way, ability checks made to see you have disadvantage. You lose your camoflauge immediately if you move or are moved, attack, or cast a spell.

Awareness

Due to your eyes moving independently, you are able to take in more than most people. You are proficient with the Perception skill if you do not already have it from another source. When making Perception checks while using your Camouflage ability, you may double your proficiency bonus.

Hold Breath

You can hold your breath for up to 15 minutes.

Languages

You are able to read and write Common and one other language of your choice.