Home/Monsters/Monsters & Creatures/Aboleth 5e Guide

Aboleth 5e Guide

Large Aberration, Lawful Evil

At a Glance

CR
10
Type
Aberration
Size
Large
Alignment
Lawful Evil
AC
17
HP
135 (18d10 + 36)
Speed10 ft., swim 40 ft.

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Ability ScoresKey AbilitiesTacticsEncounter TipsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Ability Scores

str
21
+5
dex
9
-1
con
15
+2
int
18
+4
wis
15
+2
cha
18
+4

Key Abilities

AbilityDescription
Mucous CloudCreates a 5-foot cloud of slime when underwater. Creatures within must make DC 14 Con save or lose ability to breathe air for 3 hours.
TelepathyCan communicate telepathically with any creature within 120 feet and read surface thoughts.
EnslaveTargets one creature within 30 feet. DC 14 Wis save or be <a href="/rules/conditions/charmed-condition-5e/">charmed</a> for 24 hours. Aboleth can telepathically command.
Psychic DrainLegendary action to deal 10 (3d6) psychic damage to one enslaved creature within 120 feet.

How to Run This Monster

Use enslave early to turn party members against each other. Stay underwater and use mucous cloud to drown melee fighters.

Encounter Ideas

Place aboleth in flooded ruins with escape routes. Use enslaved minions as early warning system.

Loot
Ancient tablets worth 500gp, pearls (3d6 × 100gp), possibly ring of water breathing or trident of fish command.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Forgetting the mucous cloud affects anyone who attacks in melee range
Common Mistake
Not using enslaved creatures as meat shields

DM Tips

DM Tip
Foreshadow aboleth with dreams and visions weeks before encounter
DM Tip
Make the lair partially flooded with varying water depths

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading