What Happens if a Player Gets Lycanthropy 5e?
In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e), lycanthropy is a supernatural condition that allows a creature to transform into a humanoid-werewolf hybrid. The condition is considered a curse, and can be transmitted through various means, including bites, infected blood, or magical effects. But what happens when a player character contracts lycanthropy? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this eerie and unpredictable condition.
The Mechanics of Lycanthropy
According to the official 5e SRD (System Reference Document), when a creature with lycanthropy (such as a werewolf) is wounded, a random effect occurs. Depending on the type of wound, the creature may fall unconscious, become confused, or develop a random behavior. However, when an NPC (non-player character) becomes a lycanthrope, there are more severe consequences, including increased strength, ferocity, and a connection to the moon.
As a DM (Dungeon Master), you can also use lycanthropy as a plot device, allowing a player character to become the target of werewolf bites or infected wounds. But what happens then?
The Consequences of Becoming a Werewolf
When a player character becomes a werewolf, their behavior and personality undergo a significant change. They develop a strong desire to howl at the moon, and their transformation is influenced by the full moon cycle. Here’s a brief overview of what happens during each phase of the full moon:
- New Moon (No Change): Nothing changes. The player can continue playing as usual, without any werewolf attributes.
- First Quarter (Increased Strength & Ferocity): The player character gains increased physical strength, speed, and ferocity. They might become more aggressive and react impulsively to situations.
- Full Moon (Transformed Werewolf): The player undergoes a full transformation into a humanoid-werewolf hybrid, losing their intellect and personality. They enter a frenzied, primal state, driven solely by the desire to hunt and roam.
- Last Quarter (Heightened Sensitivity): The player character becomes hypersensitive to their surroundings, with a heightened sense of smell and hearing. They might react more intensely to certain sounds or smells, and experience vivid dreams related to the hunt.
- Dark Moon (Return to Normal): The transformation wears off, and the player character reverts to their normal humanoid form. They may regain their memory of the transformations, depending on the strength of their connection to their werewolf side.
Removing the Curse
Players can seek to remove the curse through various means:
- Remove Disease: Using a Remove Disease spell can cure the curse, reversing the effects.
- Wishes: The player can choose to reverse the curse as part of a wish. However, this might depend on the DM’s decision and may come with its own consequences.
- Potions or Item: Specific potions or magical items may be able to cure lycanthropy.
Roleplaying Werewolves
As the DM, you can weave a thrilling narrative around the transformation, influencing the player character’s choices and actions during each phase of the moon cycle. Here are some key considerations for roleplaying a werewolf:
- Emphasize the primal instinct: A werewolf may act more impulsively and react strongly to certain smells, sounds, or triggers.
- Explore the disconnect: During the full moon transformation, the player character becomes a distinct entity, unaware of their actions. Encourage them to explore their werewolf persona and navigate the world from a changed perspective.
- Balance danger and risk: Werewolf transformations often come with grave risks. Consider the safety of innocent bystanders, the risks of being discovered by enemies, and the challenge of containing the transformation without harming themselves or others.
- Engage with nature: The connection to nature is essential for werewolves. Encourage your player character to explore natural environments, interact with beasts, and tap into the primal instincts that drive the transformation.
Conclusion
Lycanthropy can add an exciting layer of complexity to your 5e game, offering an unpredictable journey for your players. As the DM, it’s essential to provide a detailed understanding of the transformation and its consequences. By doing so, you’ll be able to engage your players in a richer, more immersive experience as they navigate the challenges of being a werewolf in the world of Dungeons & Dragons 5e.