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| Source | Monster Manual 🛒 |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Type | undead |
| Alignment | chaotic evil |
| Armor Class | 13 |
| Hit Points | 36 (8d8) |
| Challenge Rating | 2 (450 XP) |
| Ability Scores | STR 16, DEX 17, CON 10, INT 11, WIS 10, CHA 8 |
| Full rules | open5e.com ↗ |
The Ghast belongs to the most feared undead in Dungeons & Dragons and represents a significant escalation over the common ghoul. These rotting creatures are threatening not only due to their necrotic nature, but also through their ability to lead other undead and paralyze entire adventuring parties.
What makes the Ghast so dangerous?
Unlike its weaker relative, the ghoul, the Ghast possesses several abilities that make it a serious opponent. Its paralyzing claws can render characters immobile for a full minute – an eternity in combat. Particularly insidious: The saving throw only has a difficulty class of 10, but even that can become problematic for low-level characters.
The Ghast’s Stench is another dangerous weapon. Any creature that starts its turn within 5 feet must succeed on a Constitution saving throw or become poisoned until the start of its next turn. This can significantly hinder attack rolls and ability checks.
Leader of the Undead
Particularly interesting is the Turn Defiance ability. The Ghast grants itself and all ghouls within 30 feet advantage on saving throws against effects that turn undead. This makes it a natural leader for ghoul hordes and presents additional challenges for clerics and paladins.
Perfect for low-level campaigns
With a Challenge Rating of 2, the Ghast works excellently as a boss opponent for characters of levels 3-5. Its 36 hit points and an Armor Class of 13 make it robust enough for a longer fight without seeming overwhelming. Dungeon Masters will find further details about its background story and tactical use in the Monster Manual 🛒.
Tactical Usage Options
The Ghast works best in company with other undead. Its paralyzing claws can take out individual characters while its ghoul allies keep the rest of the party busy. It’s particularly effective in tight spaces where its stench is hard to avoid.
Tip for Dungeon Masters: Use the paralysis strategically, but don’t overdo it. A paralyzed character can quickly become frustrating if they can’t do anything for several rounds. Let the other players use healing spells or help actions to support their companion.
Roleplaying Opportunities
Unlike many other undead, the Ghast retains a remnant of its intelligence and can even speak. This opens up interesting roleplaying opportunities: Perhaps it was once a scholar or noble who was transformed through dark magic. Its memories of life can lead to exciting dialogues or clues to larger conspiracies.
The Ghast is thus more than just another undead creature – it’s a versatile threat that can shine in both combat and roleplaying.
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).
