Orc 5e Guide
Medium Humanoid (orc), Chaotic Evil
At a Glance
CR
1/2
Type
Humanoid (orc)
Size
Medium
Alignment
Chaotic Evil
AC
13 (hide armor)
HP
15 (2d8 + 6)
Speed30 ft.
Ability Scores
str
16
+3
dex
12
+1
con
16
+3
int
7
-2
wis
11
+0
cha
10
+0
Key Abilities
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Aggressive | As a bonus action, the orc can move up to its speed toward a hostile creature that it can see. |
| Greataxe | Melee weapon attack, +5 to hit, 1d12+3 slashing damage. |
| Javelin | Melee or ranged weapon attack, +5 to hit, range 30/120 ft., 1d6+3 piercing damage. |
How to Run This Monster
Orcs are aggressive warriors who charge straight into melee using their Aggressive bonus action to close distance quickly. They attack the nearest enemy and fight to the death. Orc war chiefs and shamans provide leadership and magical support. In groups, they overwhelm targets with numbers.
Encounter Ideas
Orc encounters should feel like a tide of violence. Use war drums, battle cries, and overwhelming numbers. Mix in orc war chiefs, orc eyes of Gruumsh (clerics), and sometimes ogres or trolls. Orc raiding parties attack settlements, caravans, and outposts.
Loot
Orcs carry crude weapons and 1d4 gp in loot from raids. Orc camps contain stolen goods: 3d20 gp in mixed valuables, weapons, tools, and supplies taken from victims.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting the Aggressive bonus action — orcs close gaps fast
Common Mistake
Playing all orcs identically — use war chiefs, shamans, and berserkers for variety
Common Mistake
Not using orcs in groups — single orcs aren't threatening
DM Tips
DM Tip
Orcs work best as a faction with camps, raiding parties, and war chiefs
DM Tip
Give orc leaders names and battle strategies
DM Tip
Orc society worships Gruumsh — use religious elements for depth
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Orc — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full stat block
- Orc — D&D Beyond — Official monster reference
- Orc — Roll20 Compendium — Structured stat block