About this episode
Monsters got beefier, rules got weirder, and DMs everywhere are questioning their life choices—welcome to the 2024 Monster Manual meltdown! The RPGBOT.Podcast crew dives headfirst into the 2024 Dungeons & Dragons Monster Manual, and things get wild . Hot takes? Absolutely. Existential dread about humanoid reclassification? You bet. From debating whether False Appearance was too powerful (or if DMs were just lazy) to mourning the loss of non-magical damage resistance, this episode is packed with spicy opinions, monster mayhem, and just a tiny bit of rulebook-related outrage. The team also gushes over the ArchHag, questions the mysterious absence of high-level NPCs, and asks the important question: Does inflating HP while lowering AC make combat better or just longer? Whether you're here for monster breakdowns, homebrew chaos, or just to hear people passionately argue about stat blocks, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in now and embrace the madness! LINKS Blog of Holding: 2024 Monster Manual on an Index Card TheMonstersKnow.com Slings and Arrows RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes 2024 MONSTER MANUAL - Part 1: A Look Ahead 2024 D&D MONSTER MANUAL Pt 2 - A Look Ahead Content from RPGBOT.net 2024 DnD 5e Monster Manual Change Log Summary: In this delightfully chaotic episode, the hosts battle technical gremlins, reflect on life's existential woes, and somehow end up deep in the weeds of the 2024 Dungeons & Dragons Monster Manual. They break down the latest changes, from monster stat overhauls to baffling reclassifications (farewell, humanoids?), while throwing in plenty of humor and spicy opinions along the way. The discussion takes an intense turn as they dive into gameplay mechanics, lamenting the loss of beloved traits (RIP False Appearance) and questioning why poison and paralysis are suddenly less terrifying. They also express mixed feelings about the mysterious disappearance of damage resistances, argue whether inflated HP is a blessing or a curse, and call out the promised but mysteriously absent rulebook features. Of course, no Monster Manual discussion is complete without fawning over new monstrosities. The hosts gush over breathtaking artwork, break down standout creatures like the ArchHag and the Blob of Annihilation, and voice their strong opinions about the new and improved Mind Flayer. Wrapping up with thoughts on game balance, community feedback, and whether anyone actually follows official rules, this episode is a must-listen for DMs, players, and anyone who enjoys deep-diving into monster mechanics, stat block debates, and rulebook drama. Key Takeaways Monster Manual Madness The 2024 Monster Manual brings major changes, some exciting and some controversial. Monster design trends are shifting—goodbye non-magical resistances, hello glass cannons. Hags now have personal anathemas, which is both horrifying and amazing. The Blob of Annihilation is exactly as terrifying as it sounds. Mind Flayers got a glow-up, and players are here for it. The ArchHag is a fantastic new addition, possibly leading the Hag Cinematic Universe. Gameplay & Mechanics: The Great Debate False Appearance's removal: Was it too overpowered, or are DMs just lazy? Humanoids reclassified—because nothing says "fun" like redoing encounter tables. Poison and paralysis mechanics were nerfed, making things less deadly. Resistance to non-magical damage is gone. Bring tissues for your Barbarian. HP inflation versus AC reduction—a battle for the ages. Monsters now hit harder, last longer, and have questionable life choices. Community, Balance, and The Future of D&D Players expected big changes, but not these big changes. Where are the high-level humanoid NPCs? We miss them. Weapon masteries feel imbalanced, and future errata seem likely. Community feedback is key, but does WOTC actually listen? Homebrewing is both a blessing and a curse, especially with changing rulesets. Clear communication is essential for any game transition, looking at you, rulebook writers. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts , Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon , where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale ( affiliate link ) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati