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| Source | Monster Manual 🛒 |
|---|---|
| Size | Gargantuan |
| Type | dragon |
| Alignment | lawful good |
| Armor Class | 22 (natural) |
| Hit Points | 444 (24d20) |
| Challenge Rating | 22 (41000 XP) |
| Ability Scores | STR 29, DEX 10, CON 27, INT 18, WIS 17, CHA 21 |
| Full rules | open5e.com ↗ |
The Ancient Bronze Dragon belongs to the noblest and most majestic creatures in the world of Dungeons & Dragons. As a lawful and benevolent dragon, he embodies everything that heroic adventurers value: wisdom, justice, and the willingness to protect the weak. With his impressive challenge rating of 22, he is a true colossus who can serve both as a powerful ally and as the ultimate test for high-level characters.
A Master of the Elements
What makes the Ancient Bronze Dragon particularly fascinating is his amphibious nature. He masters both the skies and the depths of the seas with equal elegance. This versatility is reflected in his two breath weapons: The devastating Lightning Breath can strike enemies in a 120-foot line with massive lightning damage, while his Repulsion Breath hurls enemies away and provides tactical advantages.
Particularly noteworthy is his ability to shapeshift. The dragon can transform into any humanoid or animal forms while retaining his mental abilities. This trait makes him a perfect NPC for long-term campaigns, as he can walk unrecognized among mortals.
Using Him in Your Campaign
As a Dungeon Master, the Ancient Bronze Dragon offers you countless narrative possibilities. His lawful nature makes him the ideal mentor or patron for heroic groups. Perhaps he initially appears in human form – a wise old sailor who accompanies the characters on their journey before revealing his true identity.
In coastal regions, he can function as protector of seafarers, while in inland waters he appears as guardian of ancient secrets. His impressive Perception of 27 and his legendary actions make him a fearsome opponent should the characters end up on the wrong side.
Tactical Challenges
In combat, the Ancient Bronze Dragon uses his Frightful Presence to demoralize weaker opponents before striking with his devastating multiattacks. His legendary actions between player turns create constant pressure and make every round unpredictable.
The combination of high Armor Class (22), massive hit points (444), and legendary resistance makes him a marathon fight that demands the entire group’s resources. Dungeon Masters should pay special attention to the environment – a fight on or under water plays to the dragon’s strengths.
For Dungeon Masters planning epic dragon encounters, the Monster Manual 🛒 offers additional information on dragon behavior and tactics. The Ancient Bronze Dragon perfectly embodies the ideal of the wise, mighty protector and can enrich any campaign with unforgettable moments.
This article was created using AI, based on data from the 5e-database project (D&D 5e System Reference Document, licensed under CC BY 4.0).
