This is the next in my series of reviews of Dungeons and Dragons 5E Manuals. It may end up being my last for a while for as far as I know, this is the final book which does not involve a locale or a module. I remain mostly uninterested in those things. My campaign worlds are so complex, and I get to run them so rarely, I would need a year to play through what I already have ready. I do not need the help of others creating a world or figuring out adventures to run. Hells and Bells, my campaign map was probably written out before some of the Wizard of the Coast authors were born. Let me give this concept a double check, 37 years ago, yeah, I bet I am correct.
Genre: Fantasy (RPG)
Publisher: Wizards of the Coast
Released: 2018
Stars: 4.5 Stars
Reviewer: Michael D. Griffiths
On to the Tome of Foes. Written in theory by Mordenkainen himself, the tome is filled with personal notes from him which are entertaining and informative. It starts with outlining Devils, Demons, and the Blood War and to be honest, this is my favorite part of the book. I really enjoyed the extra abilities the different cults which follow these creatures receive. Infernal politics is always fun although I not sure I approve of the direction the leaders of each level have taken, but as a player I do not suppose you would have much control over these changes, so change could upset the goals of these villains and therefore create new opportunities for gaming.
This was followed by an overview of the various player races in greater depth. I suppose it is throwing a bone to players so they have something they can read if they buy this book. I enjoyed this part a little less, but it was interesting and could give both players and GMs some good ideas.
The second half of the book is a new ensemble of nasty creatures. Some we have seen before, others are familiar Devil and Demon lords, while others are completely new beasts for us to explore. There are some lower level threats, but I think this was geared more to press higher level characters with new challenges.
If you like 5E, I do not see many downsides here. Like I said, the player races were less exciting for me. I would have rather seen Yuggoloths included instead.
I think this is a must buy for any serious 5E Game Master. However, I do not see much reason for a player to grab this one. Read about Elves at your GM’s house the next time you are waiting for your allies to get to the tavern.
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