Kobold 5e Guide
Small Humanoid (kobold), Lawful Evil
At a Glance
CR
1/8
Type
Humanoid (kobold)
Size
Small
Alignment
Lawful Evil
AC
12
HP
5 (2d6 - 2)
Speed30 ft.
Ability Scores
str
7
-2
dex
15
+2
con
9
-1
int
8
-1
wis
7
-2
cha
8
-1
Key Abilities
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Pack Tactics | The kobold has advantage on attack rolls against a creature if at least one of the kobold's allies is within 5 ft. of the creature and the ally isn't <a href="/rules/conditions/incapacitated-condition-5e/">incapacitated</a>. |
| Sunlight Sensitivity | While in sunlight, the kobold has disadvantage on attack rolls and Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight. |
| Dagger | Melee weapon attack, +4 to hit, 1d4+2 piercing. Sling: Ranged, +4 to hit, range 30/120 ft., 1d4+2 bludgeoning. |
How to Run This Monster
Kobolds never fight fair. They use elaborate trap systems, narrow tunnels that larger creatures can't navigate, and Pack Tactics to get advantage on every attack. They swarm targets in groups of 6+, retreat into tunnels when threatened, and reset traps behind them. Their warrens are designed as kill zones.
Encounter Ideas
Tucker's Kobolds are legendary for a reason — a well-designed kobold warren is terrifying at any level. Use pit traps, crossbow murder holes, collapsing tunnels, oil slicks, and swinging blades. The kobolds themselves are weak but their environment is the real enemy. Include a kobold inventor or sorcerer for variety.
Loot
Individual kobolds carry almost nothing (1d4 cp). Their warrens contain communal treasure: 3d20 gp in small gems and coins, crude traps that can be repurposed, and occasionally a dragon-related artifact (kobolds worship dragons).
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Playing kobolds as just 'weak goblins' — they're trap masters
Common Mistake
Not using Pack Tactics — it's what makes kobolds dangerous in groups
Common Mistake
Forgetting Sunlight Sensitivity when fighting outdoors
DM Tips
DM Tip
Kobold warrens should be the real encounter, not the kobolds themselves
DM Tip
Their connection to dragons can tie into larger campaign arcs
DM Tip
Kobold inventors and trap-smiths add variety to encounters
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Kobold — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full stat block
- Kobold — D&D Beyond — Official monster reference
- Kobold — Roll20 Compendium — Structured stat block