Polymorph

• Casting Time: 1 action
• Classes: Bard, Druid, Sorcerer, Wizard
• Components: V S M
• Concentration: Yes
• Duration: Up to 1 hour
• Level: 4
• Material: A caterpillar cocoon
• Name: Polymorph
• Range: 60 feet
• School: Transmutation
• Target: A creature that you can see within range

This spell transforms a creature with at least 1 hit point that you can see within range into a new form. An unwilling creature must make a Wisdom saving throw to avoid the effect. A shapechanger automatically succeeds on this saving throw.

The transformation lasts for the duration, or until the target drops to 0 hit points or dies. The new form can be any beast whose challenge rating is equal to or less than the target's (or the target's level, if it doesn't have a challenge rating). The target's game statistics, including mental ability scores, are replaced by the statistics of the chosen beast. It retains its alignment and personality.

The target assumes the hit points of its new form. When it reverts to its normal form, the creature returns to the number of hit points it had before it transformed. If it reverts as a result of dropping to 0 hit points, any excess damage carries over to its normal form. As long as the excess damage doesn't reduce the creature's normal form to 0 hit points, it isn't knocked unconscious.

The creature is limited in the actions it can perform by the nature of its new form, and it can't speak, cast spells, or take any other action that requires hands or speech.

The target's gear melds into the new form. The creature can't activate, use, wield, or otherwise benefit from any of its equipment.

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The SendingStone review

Polymorph is a fourth-level spell available to bards, druids, sorcerers, and wizards in Dungeons & Dragons. Its casting time is one action and requires verbal, somatic, and material components - a caterpillar cocoon. The spell's duration is up to one hour, and it requires concentration. Polymorph allows the caster to transform an unwilling creature into a new form. The new form can be any beast or humanoid that the caster can see and has a challenge rating equal to or lower than the target's level.

Overall, Polymorph is a useful spell for several scenarios, such as escaping danger, infiltration, or getting a tactical advantage over enemies. Additionally, the spell can provide creative opportunities for players to explore different forms and mechanics. However, some players and Dungeon Masters argue that the spell is overpowered, as it can turn the tide of the battle too easily by making an enemy harmless or providing a powerful tank. Ultimately, Polymorph's utility and balance will depend on how it is used in gameplay and at the DM's discretion.

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Polymorph is D&D (Dungeons & Dragons) 5th edition content, but other TTRPGs may have their own version such as a Polymorph Pathfinder edition. Want to use Polymorph in a VTT (virtual tabletop)? Try out SendingStone for free today!

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