Lich 5e Guide
Medium Undead, Any Evil alignment
At a Glance
CR
21
Type
Undead
Size
Medium
Alignment
Any Evil alignment
AC
17 (natural armor)
HP
135 (18d8 + 54)
Speed30 ft.
Ability Scores
str
11
+0
dex
16
+3
con
16
+3
int
20
+5
wis
14
+2
cha
16
+3
Key Abilities
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Spellcasting (18th level) | The lich is an 18th-level spellcaster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 20, +12 to hit). It has access to the full <a href="/characters/classes/wizard-5e/">wizard</a> spell list including 9th-level spells like <a href="/spells/offensive/power-word-kill-5e/">Power Word Kill</a>. |
| Legendary Resistance (3/Day) | If the lich fails a saving throw, it can choose to succeed instead. |
| Rejuvenation | If destroyed, the lich gains a new body in 1d10 days if its phylactery is intact. The new body appears within 5 feet of the phylactery. |
| Paralyzing Touch | Melee spell attack, +12 to hit. 3d6 cold damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 18 Constitution save or be paralyzed for 1 minute. |
How to Run This Monster
A lich fights like a master wizard who has had centuries to prepare. It casts defensive spells before combat (Globe of Invulnerability, Shield, Mirror Image). It uses Power Word Kill on weakened targets and Counterspell against enemy casters. It never fights fair — it has contingency plans, escape routes, and minions positioned throughout its lair.
Encounter Ideas
The real challenge is finding and destroying the phylactery. The lich itself can be defeated, but it comes back. Make the phylactery quest the real adventure. A lich's lair should be filled with magical traps, undead guardians, and arcane puzzles that reflect the lich's living interests.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting that the lich must feed souls to its phylactery or become a demilich
Common Mistake
Not using the lich's full spell list — it has 9th-level spells
Common Mistake
Playing the lich as a simple combat encounter instead of a recurring villain
DM Tips
DM Tip
A lich should be a recurring villain across multiple sessions
DM Tip
Give it a motivation beyond 'evil' — what drove it to seek immortality?
DM Tip
Use the phylactery as a multi-session quest hook
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Lich — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full stat block
- Lich — D&D Beyond — Official monster reference
- Lich — Roll20 Compendium — Structured stat block