Bugbear 5e
Bugbears are large, hairy goblinoids born for battle and mayhem. Despite their intimidating appearance, they move with surprising stealth. Bugbears rely on stealth and strength to overcome foes, preferring ambushes and overwhelming brute force. They are larger and stronger than their goblin and hobgoblin cousins.
At a Glance
Ability Scores
+2 Strength, +1 Dexterity
Size
Medium
Speed
30 ft.
Languages
Common, Goblin
Source
Volo's Guide to Monsters / Monsters of the Multiverse
Racial Traits
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Darkvision | You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. |
| Long-Limbed | When you make a melee attack on your turn, your reach for it is 5 feet greater than normal. |
| Powerful Build | You count as one size larger when determining your carrying capacity and the weight you can push, drag, or lift. |
| Sneaky | You are proficient in the Stealth skill. |
| Surprise Attack | If you hit a creature with an attack roll, the creature takes an extra 2d6 damage if it hasn't taken a turn yet in the current combat. |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting the extra reach from Long-Limbed applies only on your turn
Common Mistake
Applying Surprise Attack damage more than once per combat per creature
Common Mistake
Thinking Surprise Attack only works when hidden (it works if target hasn't acted yet)
Common Mistake
Not using the Stealth proficiency to set up ambushes
DM Tips
DM Tip
Bugbears excel as ambush predators - encourage creative positioning
DM Tip
The extra reach creates interesting tactical opportunities with opportunity attacks
DM Tip
Surprise Attack is devastating at low levels but scales poorly - consider supplementing with class features
DM Tip
Great for players who want to play against type (sneaky brute archetype)
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Bugbear — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD race text
- Bugbear — D&D Beyond — Official race reference
- Bugbear Handbook — RPGBOT — Race optimization guide