How to Use a Monster - Monster Manual (2025)

How to Use a Monster. Every monster is a font of adventure. In this bestiary of Dungeons & Dragons monsters, you'll discover the weird, the whimsical, the majestic, and the macabre. Choose your favorites, and make them part of your D&D play. Along with the Player's Handbook (2024) and Dungeon Master's Guide (2024), the Monster Manual is part of D&D's foundation and requires those books. This book is intended for Dungeon Masters (DMs) and provides game statistics for monsters: all sorts of creatures-whether friend or foe-controlled by the DM. Those statistics appear in stat blocks. The book presents the monsters' sections alphabetically, with animals gathered in appendix A. See the index if you need assistance finding a particular monster. Official D&D adventures refer to the monsters in this book, and you may use these monsters-along with the rules for monster customization and encounter building in the Dungeon Master's Guide-to build your own adventures. Consult appendix B for monster lists that will help your adventure building. What's New in the 2025 Version? This is the 2025 version of the fifth edition Monster Manual. If you've read the 2014 version, much of this book will feel familiar, since the fundamental rules and variety of monsters are the same. Much of the book contains new or redesigned elements, and the monsters herein replace versions from older books. Here are highlights: More Monsters The number of monsters has increased to more than 500 stat blocks. New Monsters Dozens of new monsters, including more high-level threats, are ready to challenge characters of all levels. Refined Rules Every stat block has been updated for ease of use and game balance. Enhanced Stat Blocks New stat block design and language prioritize details vital during play. Versatile Groups Nonplayer characters now appear alongside other monsters and can represent individuals of any Humanoid species. Improved Organization Monsters are now organized alphabetically by their name....