Goliath 5e
Goliaths are massive creatures standing 7 to 8 feet tall, weighing between 280 and 340 pounds. They are driven by a fierce competitive spirit and seek to prove themselves through physical challenges. Native to mountain peaks, goliaths view survival as a measure of self-worth. Their skin is mottled with dark and light patches, and they have bony protrusions across their bodies.
At a Glance
Ability Scores
+2 Strength, +1 Constitution
Size
Medium
Speed
30 ft.
Languages
Common, Giant
Source
Volo's Guide to Monsters / Monsters of the Multiverse
Racial Traits
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Natural Athlete | You have proficiency in the Athletics skill. |
| Stone's Endurance | You can focus yourself to occasionally shrug off injury. When you take damage, you can use your reaction to roll a d12. Add your Constitution modifier to the number rolled and reduce the damage by that total. After you use this trait, you can't use it again until you finish a short or long rest. |
| Powerful Build | You count as one size larger when determining your carrying capacity and the weight you can push, drag, or lift. |
| Mountain Born | You have resistance to cold damage. You're also acclimated to high altitude, including elevations above 20,000 feet. |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting Stone's Endurance recharges on a short rest, not just long rest
Common Mistake
Not using your reaction efficiently (Stone's Endurance competes with opportunity attacks)
Common Mistake
Forgetting to add Constitution modifier to the d12 roll
Common Mistake
Thinking Powerful Build increases damage or size category for other purposes
Common Mistake
Not leveraging cold resistance in appropriate environments
DM Tips
DM Tip
Stone's Endurance can prevent a character from dropping to 0 HP - very powerful at low levels
DM Tip
Goliaths thrive in mountain and cold-weather campaigns
DM Tip
Their competitive nature creates great roleplay opportunities
DM Tip
Consider challenges, contests, and trials of strength as plot elements
DM Tip
Goliath tribes often have strict hierarchies based on prowess
DM Tip
The combination of Strength, Constitution, and Stone's Endurance makes them excellent tanks
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Goliath — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD race text
- Goliath — D&D Beyond — Official race reference
- Goliath Handbook — RPGBOT — Race optimization guide