Githyanki 5e
Githyanki are psionic warriors who dwell on the Astral Plane, riding red dragons and raiding across the planes. They were once slaves of the mind flayers until they won their freedom through bloody rebellion. Now they are fierce warriors trained from birth in combat and psionic arts. Githyanki society is militaristic and hierarchical, led by their lich-queen Vlaakith.
At a Glance
Ability Scores
+2 Strength, +1 Intelligence
Size
Medium
Speed
30 ft.
Languages
Common, Gith
Source
Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes / Monsters of the Multiverse
Racial Traits
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Astral Knowledge | You can mystically access a reservoir of experiences of entities connected to the Astral Plane. Whenever you finish a long rest, you gain proficiency in one skill of your choice and with one weapon or tool of your choice, selected from the Player's Handbook, as you momentarily project your consciousness into the Astral Plane. These proficiencies last until the end of your next long rest. |
| Githyanki Psionics | You know the Mage Hand cantrip (the hand is <a href="/rules/conditions/invisible-condition-5e/">invisible</a>). Starting at 3rd level, you can cast Jump once with this trait, and you regain the ability to do so when you finish a long rest. Starting at 5th level, you can cast Misty Step once with this trait, and you regain the ability to do so when you finish a long rest. Intelligence is your spellcasting ability for these spells. |
| Psychic Resilience | You have resistance to psychic damage. |
| Martial Prodigy (Volo's version) | You have proficiency with light and medium armor and shortswords, longswords, and greatswords. |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting to choose new proficiencies after each long rest with Astral Knowledge
Common Mistake
Not tracking the level requirements for Jump (3rd) and Misty Step (5th)
Common Mistake
Forgetting the Mage Hand is <a href="/rules/conditions/invisible-condition-5e/">invisible</a> (great for stealth and sleight of hand)
Common Mistake
Not utilizing Misty Step for tactical positioning once available
Common Mistake
Overlooking psychic resistance against mind flayers and other psionic threats
DM Tips
DM Tip
Githyanki have a deep hatred of mind flayers - use this for plot hooks
DM Tip
Astral Knowledge is incredibly flexible - it can solve many skill gaps temporarily
DM Tip
Their militaristic culture values strength and loyalty to Vlaakith
DM Tip
Consider introducing githzerai as rivals or mind flayers as ancient enemies
DM Tip
The Astral Plane connection provides unique planar travel opportunities
DM Tip
Red dragon riders and astral ships make for epic high-level encounters
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Githyanki — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD race text
- Githyanki — D&D Beyond — Official race reference
- Githyanki Handbook — RPGBOT — Race optimization guide