Dragon (Dungeons & Dragons)
Dragons in Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) are powerful, iconic creatures, often serving as formidable adversaries or, in rare cases, allies. They are typically characterized by their immense size, reptilian features, magical abilities, and hoards of treasure. Dragons are categorized based on their alignment (good, evil, or neutral), color or metallic type, and age, all of which significantly impact their power and abilities.
Classification:
Dragons are broadly classified into chromatic and metallic dragons. Chromatic dragons (such as red, green, blue, black, and white) are generally evil and associated with destructive forces. Metallic dragons (such as gold, silver, bronze, copper, and brass) are typically good and embody ideals of justice and protection. Each type of dragon possesses unique abilities, breath weapons, and innate spells.
Age Categories:
A dragon's age significantly impacts its size, power, and abilities. The common age categories, from weakest to most powerful, include:
- Wyrmling
- Very Young
- Young
- Juvenile
- Young Adult
- Adult
- Mature Adult
- Old
- Very Old
- Ancient
- Wyrm
As dragons age, they gain increased hit points, higher Armor Class, more powerful breath weapons, additional spells, and greater influence over their environment. Wyrms, the oldest and most powerful dragons, can command immense magical and physical power.
Abilities:
All dragons possess certain inherent abilities, including flight, sharp claws and teeth, keen senses, and a breath weapon unique to their type. They are also naturally resistant or immune to certain types of damage, often related to their breath weapon. Many dragons also possess innate spellcasting abilities, allowing them to cast spells without requiring components or spellbooks.
Hoards:
Dragons are renowned for their insatiable greed and the immense hoards of treasure they accumulate. These hoards often include gold, jewels, magical items, and artifacts collected over centuries. The size and value of a dragon's hoard often reflects its age and power. Dragons are fiercely protective of their hoards and will defend them with their lives.
Role in D&D:
Dragons play diverse roles in D&D campaigns. They can serve as challenging boss encounters, offering significant rewards upon defeat. They can also be used as allies or patrons, providing aid and guidance to adventurers. In some campaigns, dragons may even be the central focus, with adventurers tasked with protecting the world from their destructive power or forging alliances with them to combat a greater threat. Their intelligence and long lifespans also allow them to play intricate political games within the campaign world.