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Tarrasque 5e Guide

Gargantuan Monstrosity, Unaligned

At a Glance

CR
30
Type
Monstrosity
Size
Gargantuan
Alignment
Unaligned
AC
25 (natural armor)
HP
676 (33d20 + 330)
Speed40 ft.

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Ability ScoresKey AbilitiesTacticsEncounter TipsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Ability Scores

str
30
+10
dex
11
+0
con
30
+10
int
3
-4
wis
11
+0
cha
11
+0

Key Abilities

AbilityDescription
Legendary ResistanceCan choose to succeed on a failed save three times per day.
Magic ResistanceAdvantage on saves against spells and magical effects.
Reflective CarapaceAny time tarrasque is targeted by magic missile, line spell, or ranged spell requiring attack roll, roll d6. On 1-5, unaffected. On 6, reflected back.
Frightful PresenceDC 17 Wis save or frightened for 1 minute. Each creature within 120 feet when tarrasque uses this.

How to Run This Monster

Destroy everything. No strategy—pure destruction. Swallow whole Large or smaller creatures. Use legendary actions constantly.

Encounter Ideas

This is a campaign-ending encounter. Evacuate cities. Requires epic-level preparation and teamwork. Cannot be permanently killed without wish spell.

Loot
Carapace plates (worth 50,000gp total), teeth (1,000gp each), destroyed treasure from digested victims (DM discretion).

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Using the tarrasque too early—it's meant for level 20 campaigns
Common Mistake
Not describing the apocalyptic devastation it causes

DM Tips

DM Tip
Foreshadow its awakening for months—earthquakes, ancient prophecies
DM Tip
Make it a regional event affecting entire nations

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading