Hobgoblin 5e
Hobgoblins are disciplined warriors who value martial training and military organization above all else. They are larger and stronger than their goblin cousins, standing nearly 6 feet tall with dark orange or red-orange skin. Hobgoblin society is built around a strict military hierarchy where honor and discipline are paramount. They believe that life is a constant struggle for supremacy.
At a Glance
Ability Scores
+2 Constitution, +1 Intelligence
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. |
| Fey Ancestry | You have advantage on saving throws you make to avoid or end the <a href="/rules/conditions/charmed-condition-5e/">charmed</a> condition on yourself. |
| Fey Gift | You can use this trait to take the Help action as a bonus action, and you can do so a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus. You regain all expended uses when you finish a long rest. Starting at 3rd level, choose one of the options below each time you use this trait: Hospitality (you and the target gain temporary HP equal to 1d6 + proficiency bonus), Passage (you and target gain +10 feet walking speed), or Spite (if the target hits with an attack, they can deal extra psychic damage equal to 1d6 + proficiency bonus). |
| Fortune from the Many | If you miss with an attack roll or fail an ability check or saving throw, you can draw on your bonds of reciprocity to gain a bonus equal to the number of allies you can see within 30 feet (maximum +3). You can use this trait a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus. |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting Fortune from the Many only works with visible allies
Common Mistake
Not tracking the proficiency bonus scaling on Fey Gift uses
Common Mistake
Choosing the wrong Fey Gift option for the situation
Common Mistake
Forgetting to use Help action as bonus action with Fey Gift
Common Mistake
Not coordinating with allies to maximize Fortune from the Many
DM Tips
DM Tip
Hobgoblins work best in team-focused parties where they can use Fortune from the Many
DM Tip
Their military background creates interesting roleplay for discipline vs. chaos
DM Tip
Fey Gift's versatility makes them excellent support characters
DM Tip
Consider hobgoblin legions, war bands, or military structures as antagonists or allies
DM Tip
The Help action as a bonus action is very powerful for martial builds
DM Tip
Their methodical nature contrasts well with more chaotic party members
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Hobgoblin — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD race text
- Hobgoblin — D&D Beyond — Official race reference
- Hobgoblin Handbook — RPGBOT — Race optimization guide