Does True Polymorph End on Death?
True Polymorph is a powerful 8th-level spell in Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition that allows a caster to transform a creature into a new form. One of the most important questions about this spell is whether it ends when the transformed creature dies. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of True Polymorph and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
The Spell’s Mechanics
Before we dive into the question at hand, let’s take a look at the spell’s mechanics. True Polymorph states that it "transforms a creature you touch into a new form" (PHB p. 283). The spell requires a concentration check, and the transformed creature gains the physical characteristics of the new form, including its size, shape, and appearance.
Does the Spell End on Death?
According to the spell’s description, True Polymorph ends if the creature dies. This means that if the transformed creature is killed, the spell’s effects are undone, and the creature reverts to its original form.
Exception: Permanent Polymorph
However, there is an exception to this rule. If the caster maintains the concentration for the full duration of the spell, the transformation becomes permanent. This means that even if the transformed creature dies, the spell’s effects remain, and the creature does not revert to its original form.
Implications for the Game
So, what does this mean for the game? For one, it means that players who use True Polymorph need to be careful about the risks of combat. If they are transformed into a new form and are killed, the spell’s effects will be undone, and they will revert to their original form. This can be a significant setback, especially if the player has invested a lot of time and effort into their new form.
On the other hand, the permanent polymorph option can be a powerful tool for players who want to maintain their new form indefinitely. This can be especially useful for characters who have invested a lot of time and effort into their new form and want to continue to use it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, True Polymorph ends if the creature dies, unless the caster maintains the concentration for the full duration of the spell. This means that players need to be careful about the risks of combat and consider the potential consequences of using this powerful spell.