What all is included in a creature's game statistics?












15












$begingroup$


Many features and rules refer to a creature's "game statistics".



For example, True Polymorph says:




The target's game statistics, including mental ability scores, are replaced by the statistics of the new form.




and Possess Corpse, an ability of a Dybbuk, says:




It otherwise uses the target's game statistics, gaining access to its knowledge and proficiencies but not its class features, if any.




Sometimes it instead just refers to "statistics" as in the description for a character with lycanthropy in the Monster Manual:




A character who becomes a lycanthrope retains his or her statistics except as specified by lycanthrope type.




What all is included in a creature's "game statistics" or "statistics"? Where in the rules is this defined?



Note that the term is used interchangeably between things intended for PCs and things intended for monsters and other creatures so answers should cover all those possibilities.










share|improve this question











$endgroup$












  • $begingroup$
    Related: True Polymorph: can a player use legendary actions of its new form?, Can you use class features while Polymorphed?, Does a PC lycanthrope druid gain a lycanthrope's resistances in humanoid form, and while Wild Shaped?, Can Dybbuk use spellcasting of a possessed creature?
    $endgroup$
    – V2Blast
    Jan 10 at 19:41
















15












$begingroup$


Many features and rules refer to a creature's "game statistics".



For example, True Polymorph says:




The target's game statistics, including mental ability scores, are replaced by the statistics of the new form.




and Possess Corpse, an ability of a Dybbuk, says:




It otherwise uses the target's game statistics, gaining access to its knowledge and proficiencies but not its class features, if any.




Sometimes it instead just refers to "statistics" as in the description for a character with lycanthropy in the Monster Manual:




A character who becomes a lycanthrope retains his or her statistics except as specified by lycanthrope type.




What all is included in a creature's "game statistics" or "statistics"? Where in the rules is this defined?



Note that the term is used interchangeably between things intended for PCs and things intended for monsters and other creatures so answers should cover all those possibilities.










share|improve this question











$endgroup$












  • $begingroup$
    Related: True Polymorph: can a player use legendary actions of its new form?, Can you use class features while Polymorphed?, Does a PC lycanthrope druid gain a lycanthrope's resistances in humanoid form, and while Wild Shaped?, Can Dybbuk use spellcasting of a possessed creature?
    $endgroup$
    – V2Blast
    Jan 10 at 19:41














15












15








15


2



$begingroup$


Many features and rules refer to a creature's "game statistics".



For example, True Polymorph says:




The target's game statistics, including mental ability scores, are replaced by the statistics of the new form.




and Possess Corpse, an ability of a Dybbuk, says:




It otherwise uses the target's game statistics, gaining access to its knowledge and proficiencies but not its class features, if any.




Sometimes it instead just refers to "statistics" as in the description for a character with lycanthropy in the Monster Manual:




A character who becomes a lycanthrope retains his or her statistics except as specified by lycanthrope type.




What all is included in a creature's "game statistics" or "statistics"? Where in the rules is this defined?



Note that the term is used interchangeably between things intended for PCs and things intended for monsters and other creatures so answers should cover all those possibilities.










share|improve this question











$endgroup$




Many features and rules refer to a creature's "game statistics".



For example, True Polymorph says:




The target's game statistics, including mental ability scores, are replaced by the statistics of the new form.




and Possess Corpse, an ability of a Dybbuk, says:




It otherwise uses the target's game statistics, gaining access to its knowledge and proficiencies but not its class features, if any.




Sometimes it instead just refers to "statistics" as in the description for a character with lycanthropy in the Monster Manual:




A character who becomes a lycanthrope retains his or her statistics except as specified by lycanthrope type.




What all is included in a creature's "game statistics" or "statistics"? Where in the rules is this defined?



Note that the term is used interchangeably between things intended for PCs and things intended for monsters and other creatures so answers should cover all those possibilities.







dnd-5e monsters






share|improve this question















share|improve this question













share|improve this question




share|improve this question








edited Jan 10 at 14:37







Rubiksmoose

















asked Jan 10 at 12:08









RubiksmooseRubiksmoose

51.9k7253386




51.9k7253386












  • $begingroup$
    Related: True Polymorph: can a player use legendary actions of its new form?, Can you use class features while Polymorphed?, Does a PC lycanthrope druid gain a lycanthrope's resistances in humanoid form, and while Wild Shaped?, Can Dybbuk use spellcasting of a possessed creature?
    $endgroup$
    – V2Blast
    Jan 10 at 19:41


















  • $begingroup$
    Related: True Polymorph: can a player use legendary actions of its new form?, Can you use class features while Polymorphed?, Does a PC lycanthrope druid gain a lycanthrope's resistances in humanoid form, and while Wild Shaped?, Can Dybbuk use spellcasting of a possessed creature?
    $endgroup$
    – V2Blast
    Jan 10 at 19:41
















$begingroup$
Related: True Polymorph: can a player use legendary actions of its new form?, Can you use class features while Polymorphed?, Does a PC lycanthrope druid gain a lycanthrope's resistances in humanoid form, and while Wild Shaped?, Can Dybbuk use spellcasting of a possessed creature?
$endgroup$
– V2Blast
Jan 10 at 19:41




$begingroup$
Related: True Polymorph: can a player use legendary actions of its new form?, Can you use class features while Polymorphed?, Does a PC lycanthrope druid gain a lycanthrope's resistances in humanoid form, and while Wild Shaped?, Can Dybbuk use spellcasting of a possessed creature?
$endgroup$
– V2Blast
Jan 10 at 19:41










3 Answers
3






active

oldest

votes


















17












$begingroup$

Monsters



What counts as statistics for monsters is defined in the Monster Manual introduction in the section "Statistics". It begins by saying:




A monster's statistics, sometimes referred to as its stat block, provide the essential information that you need to run the monster. (MM 6)




We have here a general rule that is easy to apply: if it is in a stat block then it is considered part of that creature's statistics.



The book describes each aspect of the statistics in a short sub-section (MM 6-11).





  1. Size

  2. Type

  3. Tags

  4. Alignment

  5. Armor Class

  6. Hit Points

  7. Speed

  8. Ability Scores

  9. Saving Throws

  10. Skills

  11. Vulnerabilities, Resistances, and Immunities

  12. Senses

  13. Languages

  14. Challenge

  15. Special Traits

  16. Actions

  17. Reactions

  18. Limited Usage

  19. Equipment




Class and class features are part of statistics too (including feats)



Monsters, by default, are not given class levels and thus no section was dedicated to talking about them as part of the statistics. However, a later section talks about the option of adding class levels to monsters:




You can use the rules in chapter 3 of the Player’s Handbook to give
class levels to a monster. For example, you can turn an ordinary
werewolf into a werewolf with four levels of the barbarian class (such
a monster would be expressed as “Werewolf, 4th-level barbarian”).



Start with the monster’s stat block. The monster gains all the class
features for every class level you add
, with the following exceptions:




  • The monster doesn’t gain the starting equipment of the added class.

  • For each class level you add, the monster gains one Hit Die of its
    normal type (based on its size), ignoring the class’s Hit Die
    progression.

  • The monster’s proficiency bonus is based on its challenge rating, not
    its class levels.




Since class levels and class features are also added to a monster's stat block, and the terms "statistics" and "stat block" are defined to be interchangeable (per the first quote in this answer), monster class levels and all the features thereof count as part of a monster's statistics.



Feats appear to be generally given by a class:




At certain levels, your class gives you the Ability Score Improvement feature. Using the optional feats rule, you can forgo taking that feature to take a feat of your choice instead.




Thus, as a class feature, Feats are also considered to be part of a monster's statistics.



Legendary Creatures have Legendary Actions as part of their statistics



When a creature is a legendary creature it sometimes has special actions called Legendary Actions inserted into their stat block. These (as with everything else in the stat block) are considered part of the creature's statistics.



Note that some legendary creatures also have lair actions and regional effects. However, these appear outside the stat block and the Monster Manual makes it clear that not every legendary creature with those listed even has access to them. So these would not be considered as part of that monster's statistics.



NPCs



An NPC's stats can be generated in several different ways as defined in the DMG section called "NPC Statistics":




When you give an NPC game statistics, you have three main options:
giving the NPC only the few statistics it needs, give the NPC a
monster stat block, or give the NPC a class and levels. The latter two
options require a bit of explanation.



Using a Monster Stat Block



The Monster Manual contains statistics for many generic NPCs that you
can customize as you see fit, and chapter 9 of these rules offers
guidelines on adjusting their statistics and creating a new stat
block.



Using Classes and Levels



You can create an NPC just as you would a player character, using the
rules in the Player’s Handbook. You can even use a character sheet to
keep track of the NPC’s vital information.



Class Options. In addition to the class options in the Player’s
Handbook, two additional class options are available for evil player
characters and NPCs: the Death domain for clerics and the oathbreaker
for paladins. Both options are detailed at the end of this chapter.



Equipment. Most NPCs don’t need an exhaustive list of equipment. An
enemy meant to be faced in combat requires weapons and armor, plus any
treasure the NPC carries (including magic items that might be used
against the adventurers).



Challenge Rating. An NPC built for combat needs a challenge rating.
Use the rules in chapter 9 to determine the NPC’s challenge rating,
just as you would for a monster you designed.




It is clear that what counts as statistics for an NPC are the same as what counts for monsters and PCs. However, the DM, for simplicity's sake, has a lot of leeway on how many of those statistics they need to define when making an NPC. Of note is that NPC class levels and equipment are also considered part of their statistics.



PCs



The statistics for a PC include all of the same things as for monsters and NPCs. The description of building an NPC like a PC (above) confirms that creatures built this way count those things as statistics and really that just makes sense.



Basically, anything on the standard PC character sheet is considered to be a statistic.






share|improve this answer











$endgroup$





















    0












    $begingroup$

    There is no single listing of what game statistics are



    But looking through Sage Advice, I've found several things that game statistics include (and I'm not saying this is a complete list, this is just what I've come across):




    1. When you true polymorph (yourself) you speak the language the new form knows



    @JeremyECrawford if a PC is polymorphed into a troll (by polymorph spell) does PC retain languages, or can only speak giant? — David Pozorski (@DavidPozorski) July 7, 2015



    @JeremyECrawford If transformed by the true polymorph spell, the creature would speak what the new form speaks.





    1. When true polymorphed you gain the class features of the new form



    @LeMarcSharma
    @JeremyECrawford If a raging barbarian is polymorphed through the spell Polymorph, is the rage still ongoing?



    @JeremyECrawford Polymorph replaces your game statistics, including class features, with those of the beast. If you're a barbarian, you lose Rage. #DnD





    1. However if you use true polymorph to change your race, you can retain your own class and spellcasting features



    @Zephilinox
    · Apr 25, 2016 @mikemearls Would True Polymorph allow someone to change their race? What would happen to their class? Spellcasting?



    @mikemearls @Zephilinox i'd swap out one set of racial stats for the other, spellcasting remains as do class levels





    1. And you've already quoted that the mental ability scores are taken from the new form, which would mean your ability scores are replaced by the creature you're changing into.






    share|improve this answer









    $endgroup$













    • $begingroup$
      While these are interesting pieces, I am looking for one answer that has all the information in it. Please work to make this a more complete answer if you can. Also, please consider basing your answer primarily on what the rules say and not on designer Tweets if at all possible since JC is known to be unreliable.
      $endgroup$
      – Rubiksmoose
      Jan 10 at 14:32










    • $begingroup$
      @Rubiksmoose Sadly all I've managed to find in the PHB and DMG are exceptions when changing the characters game statistics, ex: in the Druid's Wild Shape it's stated the Druid retains his Charisma and Wisdom, skills and saving throw proficiencies.
      $endgroup$
      – bigchickcannibalistic
      Jan 10 at 14:55






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      IMO, Jeremy Crawford's rulings aren't that unreliable, generally, though the RAW is sometimes arguably illogical - but Mike Mearls' rulings are not official, and often contradict the clearly stated rules.
      $endgroup$
      – V2Blast
      Jan 12 at 4:38












    • $begingroup$
      @V2Blast thanks for the heads up. I'm relatively new to Sage Advice so I wasn't sure what tweets are considered unreliable compared to RAW.
      $endgroup$
      – bigchickcannibalistic
      Jan 14 at 8:24



















    -1












    $begingroup$

    The game statistics of a PC is their character sheet and from a monster is its statblock.



    It consists of every info that is translated to paper as a measurable characteristic. However, it doesn't cover things that are not measurable that makes the character being what it is. For example, true polymorph could make the target of the spell to have the exact same abilities of the creature mimicked, having the same ability scores, skills and extraordinary abilities, but don't give the target any of the memories of the mimicked creature. You can get his appearance and could try to impersonate a certain heroic male knight and get his abilities, but you don't know his mother's name, his wife quirks or his mistress existence.






    share|improve this answer









    $endgroup$













    • $begingroup$
      Unless specifically mentioned otherwise (e.g. the Dybbuk's Possess Corpse ability mentioned in the question does allow it to gain access to the target's knowledge and proficiencies).
      $endgroup$
      – PJRZ
      Jan 10 at 13:24










    • $begingroup$
      Aspects of a PC's personality are written on a character sheet: the default PC character sheet has their Ideals, Bond, and Flaw. Would those be included then since they are written and, in a sense, measurable? What about alignment?
      $endgroup$
      – Rubiksmoose
      Jan 10 at 13:36












    • $begingroup$
      Also, can you cite the source of how you came to this answer? Where in the rules does it say this? Right now, I have no idea if this is your opinion on what it should be or what the rules say "game statistics" mean.
      $endgroup$
      – Rubiksmoose
      Jan 10 at 13:37












    • $begingroup$
      @PJRZ True Polymorph gives the everything the mimicked creature has, except personality and alignment. You get abilities and proficiencies but don't get what makes that creature what it is (alignment, personality, bonds, ideals etc).
      $endgroup$
      – Aguinaldo Silvestre
      Jan 11 at 12:45










    • $begingroup$
      @Rubiksmoose I answered based on what I understood from PHB and MM. As you said, ideals, bond and flaws are not included and are not measurable. While alignment is also qualitative, you can argument it is measurable as the distance from the centre of the chaos-order/good-evil axes. As a person that had partial amnesia, I see knowledge and memories as different things since I kept the knowledge and lost the memories and this might have biased my opinion on this matter. As I said, nowhere in your character sheet is meant to write the details of your interpersonal relationships.
      $endgroup$
      – Aguinaldo Silvestre
      Jan 11 at 13:04











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    3 Answers
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    3 Answers
    3






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    active

    oldest

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    active

    oldest

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    17












    $begingroup$

    Monsters



    What counts as statistics for monsters is defined in the Monster Manual introduction in the section "Statistics". It begins by saying:




    A monster's statistics, sometimes referred to as its stat block, provide the essential information that you need to run the monster. (MM 6)




    We have here a general rule that is easy to apply: if it is in a stat block then it is considered part of that creature's statistics.



    The book describes each aspect of the statistics in a short sub-section (MM 6-11).





    1. Size

    2. Type

    3. Tags

    4. Alignment

    5. Armor Class

    6. Hit Points

    7. Speed

    8. Ability Scores

    9. Saving Throws

    10. Skills

    11. Vulnerabilities, Resistances, and Immunities

    12. Senses

    13. Languages

    14. Challenge

    15. Special Traits

    16. Actions

    17. Reactions

    18. Limited Usage

    19. Equipment




    Class and class features are part of statistics too (including feats)



    Monsters, by default, are not given class levels and thus no section was dedicated to talking about them as part of the statistics. However, a later section talks about the option of adding class levels to monsters:




    You can use the rules in chapter 3 of the Player’s Handbook to give
    class levels to a monster. For example, you can turn an ordinary
    werewolf into a werewolf with four levels of the barbarian class (such
    a monster would be expressed as “Werewolf, 4th-level barbarian”).



    Start with the monster’s stat block. The monster gains all the class
    features for every class level you add
    , with the following exceptions:




    • The monster doesn’t gain the starting equipment of the added class.

    • For each class level you add, the monster gains one Hit Die of its
      normal type (based on its size), ignoring the class’s Hit Die
      progression.

    • The monster’s proficiency bonus is based on its challenge rating, not
      its class levels.




    Since class levels and class features are also added to a monster's stat block, and the terms "statistics" and "stat block" are defined to be interchangeable (per the first quote in this answer), monster class levels and all the features thereof count as part of a monster's statistics.



    Feats appear to be generally given by a class:




    At certain levels, your class gives you the Ability Score Improvement feature. Using the optional feats rule, you can forgo taking that feature to take a feat of your choice instead.




    Thus, as a class feature, Feats are also considered to be part of a monster's statistics.



    Legendary Creatures have Legendary Actions as part of their statistics



    When a creature is a legendary creature it sometimes has special actions called Legendary Actions inserted into their stat block. These (as with everything else in the stat block) are considered part of the creature's statistics.



    Note that some legendary creatures also have lair actions and regional effects. However, these appear outside the stat block and the Monster Manual makes it clear that not every legendary creature with those listed even has access to them. So these would not be considered as part of that monster's statistics.



    NPCs



    An NPC's stats can be generated in several different ways as defined in the DMG section called "NPC Statistics":




    When you give an NPC game statistics, you have three main options:
    giving the NPC only the few statistics it needs, give the NPC a
    monster stat block, or give the NPC a class and levels. The latter two
    options require a bit of explanation.



    Using a Monster Stat Block



    The Monster Manual contains statistics for many generic NPCs that you
    can customize as you see fit, and chapter 9 of these rules offers
    guidelines on adjusting their statistics and creating a new stat
    block.



    Using Classes and Levels



    You can create an NPC just as you would a player character, using the
    rules in the Player’s Handbook. You can even use a character sheet to
    keep track of the NPC’s vital information.



    Class Options. In addition to the class options in the Player’s
    Handbook, two additional class options are available for evil player
    characters and NPCs: the Death domain for clerics and the oathbreaker
    for paladins. Both options are detailed at the end of this chapter.



    Equipment. Most NPCs don’t need an exhaustive list of equipment. An
    enemy meant to be faced in combat requires weapons and armor, plus any
    treasure the NPC carries (including magic items that might be used
    against the adventurers).



    Challenge Rating. An NPC built for combat needs a challenge rating.
    Use the rules in chapter 9 to determine the NPC’s challenge rating,
    just as you would for a monster you designed.




    It is clear that what counts as statistics for an NPC are the same as what counts for monsters and PCs. However, the DM, for simplicity's sake, has a lot of leeway on how many of those statistics they need to define when making an NPC. Of note is that NPC class levels and equipment are also considered part of their statistics.



    PCs



    The statistics for a PC include all of the same things as for monsters and NPCs. The description of building an NPC like a PC (above) confirms that creatures built this way count those things as statistics and really that just makes sense.



    Basically, anything on the standard PC character sheet is considered to be a statistic.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$


















      17












      $begingroup$

      Monsters



      What counts as statistics for monsters is defined in the Monster Manual introduction in the section "Statistics". It begins by saying:




      A monster's statistics, sometimes referred to as its stat block, provide the essential information that you need to run the monster. (MM 6)




      We have here a general rule that is easy to apply: if it is in a stat block then it is considered part of that creature's statistics.



      The book describes each aspect of the statistics in a short sub-section (MM 6-11).





      1. Size

      2. Type

      3. Tags

      4. Alignment

      5. Armor Class

      6. Hit Points

      7. Speed

      8. Ability Scores

      9. Saving Throws

      10. Skills

      11. Vulnerabilities, Resistances, and Immunities

      12. Senses

      13. Languages

      14. Challenge

      15. Special Traits

      16. Actions

      17. Reactions

      18. Limited Usage

      19. Equipment




      Class and class features are part of statistics too (including feats)



      Monsters, by default, are not given class levels and thus no section was dedicated to talking about them as part of the statistics. However, a later section talks about the option of adding class levels to monsters:




      You can use the rules in chapter 3 of the Player’s Handbook to give
      class levels to a monster. For example, you can turn an ordinary
      werewolf into a werewolf with four levels of the barbarian class (such
      a monster would be expressed as “Werewolf, 4th-level barbarian”).



      Start with the monster’s stat block. The monster gains all the class
      features for every class level you add
      , with the following exceptions:




      • The monster doesn’t gain the starting equipment of the added class.

      • For each class level you add, the monster gains one Hit Die of its
        normal type (based on its size), ignoring the class’s Hit Die
        progression.

      • The monster’s proficiency bonus is based on its challenge rating, not
        its class levels.




      Since class levels and class features are also added to a monster's stat block, and the terms "statistics" and "stat block" are defined to be interchangeable (per the first quote in this answer), monster class levels and all the features thereof count as part of a monster's statistics.



      Feats appear to be generally given by a class:




      At certain levels, your class gives you the Ability Score Improvement feature. Using the optional feats rule, you can forgo taking that feature to take a feat of your choice instead.




      Thus, as a class feature, Feats are also considered to be part of a monster's statistics.



      Legendary Creatures have Legendary Actions as part of their statistics



      When a creature is a legendary creature it sometimes has special actions called Legendary Actions inserted into their stat block. These (as with everything else in the stat block) are considered part of the creature's statistics.



      Note that some legendary creatures also have lair actions and regional effects. However, these appear outside the stat block and the Monster Manual makes it clear that not every legendary creature with those listed even has access to them. So these would not be considered as part of that monster's statistics.



      NPCs



      An NPC's stats can be generated in several different ways as defined in the DMG section called "NPC Statistics":




      When you give an NPC game statistics, you have three main options:
      giving the NPC only the few statistics it needs, give the NPC a
      monster stat block, or give the NPC a class and levels. The latter two
      options require a bit of explanation.



      Using a Monster Stat Block



      The Monster Manual contains statistics for many generic NPCs that you
      can customize as you see fit, and chapter 9 of these rules offers
      guidelines on adjusting their statistics and creating a new stat
      block.



      Using Classes and Levels



      You can create an NPC just as you would a player character, using the
      rules in the Player’s Handbook. You can even use a character sheet to
      keep track of the NPC’s vital information.



      Class Options. In addition to the class options in the Player’s
      Handbook, two additional class options are available for evil player
      characters and NPCs: the Death domain for clerics and the oathbreaker
      for paladins. Both options are detailed at the end of this chapter.



      Equipment. Most NPCs don’t need an exhaustive list of equipment. An
      enemy meant to be faced in combat requires weapons and armor, plus any
      treasure the NPC carries (including magic items that might be used
      against the adventurers).



      Challenge Rating. An NPC built for combat needs a challenge rating.
      Use the rules in chapter 9 to determine the NPC’s challenge rating,
      just as you would for a monster you designed.




      It is clear that what counts as statistics for an NPC are the same as what counts for monsters and PCs. However, the DM, for simplicity's sake, has a lot of leeway on how many of those statistics they need to define when making an NPC. Of note is that NPC class levels and equipment are also considered part of their statistics.



      PCs



      The statistics for a PC include all of the same things as for monsters and NPCs. The description of building an NPC like a PC (above) confirms that creatures built this way count those things as statistics and really that just makes sense.



      Basically, anything on the standard PC character sheet is considered to be a statistic.






      share|improve this answer











      $endgroup$
















        17












        17








        17





        $begingroup$

        Monsters



        What counts as statistics for monsters is defined in the Monster Manual introduction in the section "Statistics". It begins by saying:




        A monster's statistics, sometimes referred to as its stat block, provide the essential information that you need to run the monster. (MM 6)




        We have here a general rule that is easy to apply: if it is in a stat block then it is considered part of that creature's statistics.



        The book describes each aspect of the statistics in a short sub-section (MM 6-11).





        1. Size

        2. Type

        3. Tags

        4. Alignment

        5. Armor Class

        6. Hit Points

        7. Speed

        8. Ability Scores

        9. Saving Throws

        10. Skills

        11. Vulnerabilities, Resistances, and Immunities

        12. Senses

        13. Languages

        14. Challenge

        15. Special Traits

        16. Actions

        17. Reactions

        18. Limited Usage

        19. Equipment




        Class and class features are part of statistics too (including feats)



        Monsters, by default, are not given class levels and thus no section was dedicated to talking about them as part of the statistics. However, a later section talks about the option of adding class levels to monsters:




        You can use the rules in chapter 3 of the Player’s Handbook to give
        class levels to a monster. For example, you can turn an ordinary
        werewolf into a werewolf with four levels of the barbarian class (such
        a monster would be expressed as “Werewolf, 4th-level barbarian”).



        Start with the monster’s stat block. The monster gains all the class
        features for every class level you add
        , with the following exceptions:




        • The monster doesn’t gain the starting equipment of the added class.

        • For each class level you add, the monster gains one Hit Die of its
          normal type (based on its size), ignoring the class’s Hit Die
          progression.

        • The monster’s proficiency bonus is based on its challenge rating, not
          its class levels.




        Since class levels and class features are also added to a monster's stat block, and the terms "statistics" and "stat block" are defined to be interchangeable (per the first quote in this answer), monster class levels and all the features thereof count as part of a monster's statistics.



        Feats appear to be generally given by a class:




        At certain levels, your class gives you the Ability Score Improvement feature. Using the optional feats rule, you can forgo taking that feature to take a feat of your choice instead.




        Thus, as a class feature, Feats are also considered to be part of a monster's statistics.



        Legendary Creatures have Legendary Actions as part of their statistics



        When a creature is a legendary creature it sometimes has special actions called Legendary Actions inserted into their stat block. These (as with everything else in the stat block) are considered part of the creature's statistics.



        Note that some legendary creatures also have lair actions and regional effects. However, these appear outside the stat block and the Monster Manual makes it clear that not every legendary creature with those listed even has access to them. So these would not be considered as part of that monster's statistics.



        NPCs



        An NPC's stats can be generated in several different ways as defined in the DMG section called "NPC Statistics":




        When you give an NPC game statistics, you have three main options:
        giving the NPC only the few statistics it needs, give the NPC a
        monster stat block, or give the NPC a class and levels. The latter two
        options require a bit of explanation.



        Using a Monster Stat Block



        The Monster Manual contains statistics for many generic NPCs that you
        can customize as you see fit, and chapter 9 of these rules offers
        guidelines on adjusting their statistics and creating a new stat
        block.



        Using Classes and Levels



        You can create an NPC just as you would a player character, using the
        rules in the Player’s Handbook. You can even use a character sheet to
        keep track of the NPC’s vital information.



        Class Options. In addition to the class options in the Player’s
        Handbook, two additional class options are available for evil player
        characters and NPCs: the Death domain for clerics and the oathbreaker
        for paladins. Both options are detailed at the end of this chapter.



        Equipment. Most NPCs don’t need an exhaustive list of equipment. An
        enemy meant to be faced in combat requires weapons and armor, plus any
        treasure the NPC carries (including magic items that might be used
        against the adventurers).



        Challenge Rating. An NPC built for combat needs a challenge rating.
        Use the rules in chapter 9 to determine the NPC’s challenge rating,
        just as you would for a monster you designed.




        It is clear that what counts as statistics for an NPC are the same as what counts for monsters and PCs. However, the DM, for simplicity's sake, has a lot of leeway on how many of those statistics they need to define when making an NPC. Of note is that NPC class levels and equipment are also considered part of their statistics.



        PCs



        The statistics for a PC include all of the same things as for monsters and NPCs. The description of building an NPC like a PC (above) confirms that creatures built this way count those things as statistics and really that just makes sense.



        Basically, anything on the standard PC character sheet is considered to be a statistic.






        share|improve this answer











        $endgroup$



        Monsters



        What counts as statistics for monsters is defined in the Monster Manual introduction in the section "Statistics". It begins by saying:




        A monster's statistics, sometimes referred to as its stat block, provide the essential information that you need to run the monster. (MM 6)




        We have here a general rule that is easy to apply: if it is in a stat block then it is considered part of that creature's statistics.



        The book describes each aspect of the statistics in a short sub-section (MM 6-11).





        1. Size

        2. Type

        3. Tags

        4. Alignment

        5. Armor Class

        6. Hit Points

        7. Speed

        8. Ability Scores

        9. Saving Throws

        10. Skills

        11. Vulnerabilities, Resistances, and Immunities

        12. Senses

        13. Languages

        14. Challenge

        15. Special Traits

        16. Actions

        17. Reactions

        18. Limited Usage

        19. Equipment




        Class and class features are part of statistics too (including feats)



        Monsters, by default, are not given class levels and thus no section was dedicated to talking about them as part of the statistics. However, a later section talks about the option of adding class levels to monsters:




        You can use the rules in chapter 3 of the Player’s Handbook to give
        class levels to a monster. For example, you can turn an ordinary
        werewolf into a werewolf with four levels of the barbarian class (such
        a monster would be expressed as “Werewolf, 4th-level barbarian”).



        Start with the monster’s stat block. The monster gains all the class
        features for every class level you add
        , with the following exceptions:




        • The monster doesn’t gain the starting equipment of the added class.

        • For each class level you add, the monster gains one Hit Die of its
          normal type (based on its size), ignoring the class’s Hit Die
          progression.

        • The monster’s proficiency bonus is based on its challenge rating, not
          its class levels.




        Since class levels and class features are also added to a monster's stat block, and the terms "statistics" and "stat block" are defined to be interchangeable (per the first quote in this answer), monster class levels and all the features thereof count as part of a monster's statistics.



        Feats appear to be generally given by a class:




        At certain levels, your class gives you the Ability Score Improvement feature. Using the optional feats rule, you can forgo taking that feature to take a feat of your choice instead.




        Thus, as a class feature, Feats are also considered to be part of a monster's statistics.



        Legendary Creatures have Legendary Actions as part of their statistics



        When a creature is a legendary creature it sometimes has special actions called Legendary Actions inserted into their stat block. These (as with everything else in the stat block) are considered part of the creature's statistics.



        Note that some legendary creatures also have lair actions and regional effects. However, these appear outside the stat block and the Monster Manual makes it clear that not every legendary creature with those listed even has access to them. So these would not be considered as part of that monster's statistics.



        NPCs



        An NPC's stats can be generated in several different ways as defined in the DMG section called "NPC Statistics":




        When you give an NPC game statistics, you have three main options:
        giving the NPC only the few statistics it needs, give the NPC a
        monster stat block, or give the NPC a class and levels. The latter two
        options require a bit of explanation.



        Using a Monster Stat Block



        The Monster Manual contains statistics for many generic NPCs that you
        can customize as you see fit, and chapter 9 of these rules offers
        guidelines on adjusting their statistics and creating a new stat
        block.



        Using Classes and Levels



        You can create an NPC just as you would a player character, using the
        rules in the Player’s Handbook. You can even use a character sheet to
        keep track of the NPC’s vital information.



        Class Options. In addition to the class options in the Player’s
        Handbook, two additional class options are available for evil player
        characters and NPCs: the Death domain for clerics and the oathbreaker
        for paladins. Both options are detailed at the end of this chapter.



        Equipment. Most NPCs don’t need an exhaustive list of equipment. An
        enemy meant to be faced in combat requires weapons and armor, plus any
        treasure the NPC carries (including magic items that might be used
        against the adventurers).



        Challenge Rating. An NPC built for combat needs a challenge rating.
        Use the rules in chapter 9 to determine the NPC’s challenge rating,
        just as you would for a monster you designed.




        It is clear that what counts as statistics for an NPC are the same as what counts for monsters and PCs. However, the DM, for simplicity's sake, has a lot of leeway on how many of those statistics they need to define when making an NPC. Of note is that NPC class levels and equipment are also considered part of their statistics.



        PCs



        The statistics for a PC include all of the same things as for monsters and NPCs. The description of building an NPC like a PC (above) confirms that creatures built this way count those things as statistics and really that just makes sense.



        Basically, anything on the standard PC character sheet is considered to be a statistic.







        share|improve this answer














        share|improve this answer



        share|improve this answer








        edited Jan 11 at 14:11

























        answered Jan 10 at 15:02









        RubiksmooseRubiksmoose

        51.9k7253386




        51.9k7253386

























            0












            $begingroup$

            There is no single listing of what game statistics are



            But looking through Sage Advice, I've found several things that game statistics include (and I'm not saying this is a complete list, this is just what I've come across):




            1. When you true polymorph (yourself) you speak the language the new form knows



            @JeremyECrawford if a PC is polymorphed into a troll (by polymorph spell) does PC retain languages, or can only speak giant? — David Pozorski (@DavidPozorski) July 7, 2015



            @JeremyECrawford If transformed by the true polymorph spell, the creature would speak what the new form speaks.





            1. When true polymorphed you gain the class features of the new form



            @LeMarcSharma
            @JeremyECrawford If a raging barbarian is polymorphed through the spell Polymorph, is the rage still ongoing?



            @JeremyECrawford Polymorph replaces your game statistics, including class features, with those of the beast. If you're a barbarian, you lose Rage. #DnD





            1. However if you use true polymorph to change your race, you can retain your own class and spellcasting features



            @Zephilinox
            · Apr 25, 2016 @mikemearls Would True Polymorph allow someone to change their race? What would happen to their class? Spellcasting?



            @mikemearls @Zephilinox i'd swap out one set of racial stats for the other, spellcasting remains as do class levels





            1. And you've already quoted that the mental ability scores are taken from the new form, which would mean your ability scores are replaced by the creature you're changing into.






            share|improve this answer









            $endgroup$













            • $begingroup$
              While these are interesting pieces, I am looking for one answer that has all the information in it. Please work to make this a more complete answer if you can. Also, please consider basing your answer primarily on what the rules say and not on designer Tweets if at all possible since JC is known to be unreliable.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 14:32










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose Sadly all I've managed to find in the PHB and DMG are exceptions when changing the characters game statistics, ex: in the Druid's Wild Shape it's stated the Druid retains his Charisma and Wisdom, skills and saving throw proficiencies.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 10 at 14:55






            • 1




              $begingroup$
              IMO, Jeremy Crawford's rulings aren't that unreliable, generally, though the RAW is sometimes arguably illogical - but Mike Mearls' rulings are not official, and often contradict the clearly stated rules.
              $endgroup$
              – V2Blast
              Jan 12 at 4:38












            • $begingroup$
              @V2Blast thanks for the heads up. I'm relatively new to Sage Advice so I wasn't sure what tweets are considered unreliable compared to RAW.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 14 at 8:24
















            0












            $begingroup$

            There is no single listing of what game statistics are



            But looking through Sage Advice, I've found several things that game statistics include (and I'm not saying this is a complete list, this is just what I've come across):




            1. When you true polymorph (yourself) you speak the language the new form knows



            @JeremyECrawford if a PC is polymorphed into a troll (by polymorph spell) does PC retain languages, or can only speak giant? — David Pozorski (@DavidPozorski) July 7, 2015



            @JeremyECrawford If transformed by the true polymorph spell, the creature would speak what the new form speaks.





            1. When true polymorphed you gain the class features of the new form



            @LeMarcSharma
            @JeremyECrawford If a raging barbarian is polymorphed through the spell Polymorph, is the rage still ongoing?



            @JeremyECrawford Polymorph replaces your game statistics, including class features, with those of the beast. If you're a barbarian, you lose Rage. #DnD





            1. However if you use true polymorph to change your race, you can retain your own class and spellcasting features



            @Zephilinox
            · Apr 25, 2016 @mikemearls Would True Polymorph allow someone to change their race? What would happen to their class? Spellcasting?



            @mikemearls @Zephilinox i'd swap out one set of racial stats for the other, spellcasting remains as do class levels





            1. And you've already quoted that the mental ability scores are taken from the new form, which would mean your ability scores are replaced by the creature you're changing into.






            share|improve this answer









            $endgroup$













            • $begingroup$
              While these are interesting pieces, I am looking for one answer that has all the information in it. Please work to make this a more complete answer if you can. Also, please consider basing your answer primarily on what the rules say and not on designer Tweets if at all possible since JC is known to be unreliable.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 14:32










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose Sadly all I've managed to find in the PHB and DMG are exceptions when changing the characters game statistics, ex: in the Druid's Wild Shape it's stated the Druid retains his Charisma and Wisdom, skills and saving throw proficiencies.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 10 at 14:55






            • 1




              $begingroup$
              IMO, Jeremy Crawford's rulings aren't that unreliable, generally, though the RAW is sometimes arguably illogical - but Mike Mearls' rulings are not official, and often contradict the clearly stated rules.
              $endgroup$
              – V2Blast
              Jan 12 at 4:38












            • $begingroup$
              @V2Blast thanks for the heads up. I'm relatively new to Sage Advice so I wasn't sure what tweets are considered unreliable compared to RAW.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 14 at 8:24














            0












            0








            0





            $begingroup$

            There is no single listing of what game statistics are



            But looking through Sage Advice, I've found several things that game statistics include (and I'm not saying this is a complete list, this is just what I've come across):




            1. When you true polymorph (yourself) you speak the language the new form knows



            @JeremyECrawford if a PC is polymorphed into a troll (by polymorph spell) does PC retain languages, or can only speak giant? — David Pozorski (@DavidPozorski) July 7, 2015



            @JeremyECrawford If transformed by the true polymorph spell, the creature would speak what the new form speaks.





            1. When true polymorphed you gain the class features of the new form



            @LeMarcSharma
            @JeremyECrawford If a raging barbarian is polymorphed through the spell Polymorph, is the rage still ongoing?



            @JeremyECrawford Polymorph replaces your game statistics, including class features, with those of the beast. If you're a barbarian, you lose Rage. #DnD





            1. However if you use true polymorph to change your race, you can retain your own class and spellcasting features



            @Zephilinox
            · Apr 25, 2016 @mikemearls Would True Polymorph allow someone to change their race? What would happen to their class? Spellcasting?



            @mikemearls @Zephilinox i'd swap out one set of racial stats for the other, spellcasting remains as do class levels





            1. And you've already quoted that the mental ability scores are taken from the new form, which would mean your ability scores are replaced by the creature you're changing into.






            share|improve this answer









            $endgroup$



            There is no single listing of what game statistics are



            But looking through Sage Advice, I've found several things that game statistics include (and I'm not saying this is a complete list, this is just what I've come across):




            1. When you true polymorph (yourself) you speak the language the new form knows



            @JeremyECrawford if a PC is polymorphed into a troll (by polymorph spell) does PC retain languages, or can only speak giant? — David Pozorski (@DavidPozorski) July 7, 2015



            @JeremyECrawford If transformed by the true polymorph spell, the creature would speak what the new form speaks.





            1. When true polymorphed you gain the class features of the new form



            @LeMarcSharma
            @JeremyECrawford If a raging barbarian is polymorphed through the spell Polymorph, is the rage still ongoing?



            @JeremyECrawford Polymorph replaces your game statistics, including class features, with those of the beast. If you're a barbarian, you lose Rage. #DnD





            1. However if you use true polymorph to change your race, you can retain your own class and spellcasting features



            @Zephilinox
            · Apr 25, 2016 @mikemearls Would True Polymorph allow someone to change their race? What would happen to their class? Spellcasting?



            @mikemearls @Zephilinox i'd swap out one set of racial stats for the other, spellcasting remains as do class levels





            1. And you've already quoted that the mental ability scores are taken from the new form, which would mean your ability scores are replaced by the creature you're changing into.







            share|improve this answer












            share|improve this answer



            share|improve this answer










            answered Jan 10 at 14:22









            bigchickcannibalisticbigchickcannibalistic

            52210




            52210












            • $begingroup$
              While these are interesting pieces, I am looking for one answer that has all the information in it. Please work to make this a more complete answer if you can. Also, please consider basing your answer primarily on what the rules say and not on designer Tweets if at all possible since JC is known to be unreliable.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 14:32










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose Sadly all I've managed to find in the PHB and DMG are exceptions when changing the characters game statistics, ex: in the Druid's Wild Shape it's stated the Druid retains his Charisma and Wisdom, skills and saving throw proficiencies.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 10 at 14:55






            • 1




              $begingroup$
              IMO, Jeremy Crawford's rulings aren't that unreliable, generally, though the RAW is sometimes arguably illogical - but Mike Mearls' rulings are not official, and often contradict the clearly stated rules.
              $endgroup$
              – V2Blast
              Jan 12 at 4:38












            • $begingroup$
              @V2Blast thanks for the heads up. I'm relatively new to Sage Advice so I wasn't sure what tweets are considered unreliable compared to RAW.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 14 at 8:24


















            • $begingroup$
              While these are interesting pieces, I am looking for one answer that has all the information in it. Please work to make this a more complete answer if you can. Also, please consider basing your answer primarily on what the rules say and not on designer Tweets if at all possible since JC is known to be unreliable.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 14:32










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose Sadly all I've managed to find in the PHB and DMG are exceptions when changing the characters game statistics, ex: in the Druid's Wild Shape it's stated the Druid retains his Charisma and Wisdom, skills and saving throw proficiencies.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 10 at 14:55






            • 1




              $begingroup$
              IMO, Jeremy Crawford's rulings aren't that unreliable, generally, though the RAW is sometimes arguably illogical - but Mike Mearls' rulings are not official, and often contradict the clearly stated rules.
              $endgroup$
              – V2Blast
              Jan 12 at 4:38












            • $begingroup$
              @V2Blast thanks for the heads up. I'm relatively new to Sage Advice so I wasn't sure what tweets are considered unreliable compared to RAW.
              $endgroup$
              – bigchickcannibalistic
              Jan 14 at 8:24
















            $begingroup$
            While these are interesting pieces, I am looking for one answer that has all the information in it. Please work to make this a more complete answer if you can. Also, please consider basing your answer primarily on what the rules say and not on designer Tweets if at all possible since JC is known to be unreliable.
            $endgroup$
            – Rubiksmoose
            Jan 10 at 14:32




            $begingroup$
            While these are interesting pieces, I am looking for one answer that has all the information in it. Please work to make this a more complete answer if you can. Also, please consider basing your answer primarily on what the rules say and not on designer Tweets if at all possible since JC is known to be unreliable.
            $endgroup$
            – Rubiksmoose
            Jan 10 at 14:32












            $begingroup$
            @Rubiksmoose Sadly all I've managed to find in the PHB and DMG are exceptions when changing the characters game statistics, ex: in the Druid's Wild Shape it's stated the Druid retains his Charisma and Wisdom, skills and saving throw proficiencies.
            $endgroup$
            – bigchickcannibalistic
            Jan 10 at 14:55




            $begingroup$
            @Rubiksmoose Sadly all I've managed to find in the PHB and DMG are exceptions when changing the characters game statistics, ex: in the Druid's Wild Shape it's stated the Druid retains his Charisma and Wisdom, skills and saving throw proficiencies.
            $endgroup$
            – bigchickcannibalistic
            Jan 10 at 14:55




            1




            1




            $begingroup$
            IMO, Jeremy Crawford's rulings aren't that unreliable, generally, though the RAW is sometimes arguably illogical - but Mike Mearls' rulings are not official, and often contradict the clearly stated rules.
            $endgroup$
            – V2Blast
            Jan 12 at 4:38






            $begingroup$
            IMO, Jeremy Crawford's rulings aren't that unreliable, generally, though the RAW is sometimes arguably illogical - but Mike Mearls' rulings are not official, and often contradict the clearly stated rules.
            $endgroup$
            – V2Blast
            Jan 12 at 4:38














            $begingroup$
            @V2Blast thanks for the heads up. I'm relatively new to Sage Advice so I wasn't sure what tweets are considered unreliable compared to RAW.
            $endgroup$
            – bigchickcannibalistic
            Jan 14 at 8:24




            $begingroup$
            @V2Blast thanks for the heads up. I'm relatively new to Sage Advice so I wasn't sure what tweets are considered unreliable compared to RAW.
            $endgroup$
            – bigchickcannibalistic
            Jan 14 at 8:24











            -1












            $begingroup$

            The game statistics of a PC is their character sheet and from a monster is its statblock.



            It consists of every info that is translated to paper as a measurable characteristic. However, it doesn't cover things that are not measurable that makes the character being what it is. For example, true polymorph could make the target of the spell to have the exact same abilities of the creature mimicked, having the same ability scores, skills and extraordinary abilities, but don't give the target any of the memories of the mimicked creature. You can get his appearance and could try to impersonate a certain heroic male knight and get his abilities, but you don't know his mother's name, his wife quirks or his mistress existence.






            share|improve this answer









            $endgroup$













            • $begingroup$
              Unless specifically mentioned otherwise (e.g. the Dybbuk's Possess Corpse ability mentioned in the question does allow it to gain access to the target's knowledge and proficiencies).
              $endgroup$
              – PJRZ
              Jan 10 at 13:24










            • $begingroup$
              Aspects of a PC's personality are written on a character sheet: the default PC character sheet has their Ideals, Bond, and Flaw. Would those be included then since they are written and, in a sense, measurable? What about alignment?
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:36












            • $begingroup$
              Also, can you cite the source of how you came to this answer? Where in the rules does it say this? Right now, I have no idea if this is your opinion on what it should be or what the rules say "game statistics" mean.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:37












            • $begingroup$
              @PJRZ True Polymorph gives the everything the mimicked creature has, except personality and alignment. You get abilities and proficiencies but don't get what makes that creature what it is (alignment, personality, bonds, ideals etc).
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 12:45










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose I answered based on what I understood from PHB and MM. As you said, ideals, bond and flaws are not included and are not measurable. While alignment is also qualitative, you can argument it is measurable as the distance from the centre of the chaos-order/good-evil axes. As a person that had partial amnesia, I see knowledge and memories as different things since I kept the knowledge and lost the memories and this might have biased my opinion on this matter. As I said, nowhere in your character sheet is meant to write the details of your interpersonal relationships.
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 13:04
















            -1












            $begingroup$

            The game statistics of a PC is their character sheet and from a monster is its statblock.



            It consists of every info that is translated to paper as a measurable characteristic. However, it doesn't cover things that are not measurable that makes the character being what it is. For example, true polymorph could make the target of the spell to have the exact same abilities of the creature mimicked, having the same ability scores, skills and extraordinary abilities, but don't give the target any of the memories of the mimicked creature. You can get his appearance and could try to impersonate a certain heroic male knight and get his abilities, but you don't know his mother's name, his wife quirks or his mistress existence.






            share|improve this answer









            $endgroup$













            • $begingroup$
              Unless specifically mentioned otherwise (e.g. the Dybbuk's Possess Corpse ability mentioned in the question does allow it to gain access to the target's knowledge and proficiencies).
              $endgroup$
              – PJRZ
              Jan 10 at 13:24










            • $begingroup$
              Aspects of a PC's personality are written on a character sheet: the default PC character sheet has their Ideals, Bond, and Flaw. Would those be included then since they are written and, in a sense, measurable? What about alignment?
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:36












            • $begingroup$
              Also, can you cite the source of how you came to this answer? Where in the rules does it say this? Right now, I have no idea if this is your opinion on what it should be or what the rules say "game statistics" mean.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:37












            • $begingroup$
              @PJRZ True Polymorph gives the everything the mimicked creature has, except personality and alignment. You get abilities and proficiencies but don't get what makes that creature what it is (alignment, personality, bonds, ideals etc).
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 12:45










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose I answered based on what I understood from PHB and MM. As you said, ideals, bond and flaws are not included and are not measurable. While alignment is also qualitative, you can argument it is measurable as the distance from the centre of the chaos-order/good-evil axes. As a person that had partial amnesia, I see knowledge and memories as different things since I kept the knowledge and lost the memories and this might have biased my opinion on this matter. As I said, nowhere in your character sheet is meant to write the details of your interpersonal relationships.
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 13:04














            -1












            -1








            -1





            $begingroup$

            The game statistics of a PC is their character sheet and from a monster is its statblock.



            It consists of every info that is translated to paper as a measurable characteristic. However, it doesn't cover things that are not measurable that makes the character being what it is. For example, true polymorph could make the target of the spell to have the exact same abilities of the creature mimicked, having the same ability scores, skills and extraordinary abilities, but don't give the target any of the memories of the mimicked creature. You can get his appearance and could try to impersonate a certain heroic male knight and get his abilities, but you don't know his mother's name, his wife quirks or his mistress existence.






            share|improve this answer









            $endgroup$



            The game statistics of a PC is their character sheet and from a monster is its statblock.



            It consists of every info that is translated to paper as a measurable characteristic. However, it doesn't cover things that are not measurable that makes the character being what it is. For example, true polymorph could make the target of the spell to have the exact same abilities of the creature mimicked, having the same ability scores, skills and extraordinary abilities, but don't give the target any of the memories of the mimicked creature. You can get his appearance and could try to impersonate a certain heroic male knight and get his abilities, but you don't know his mother's name, his wife quirks or his mistress existence.







            share|improve this answer












            share|improve this answer



            share|improve this answer










            answered Jan 10 at 13:13









            Aguinaldo SilvestreAguinaldo Silvestre

            5,5341548




            5,5341548












            • $begingroup$
              Unless specifically mentioned otherwise (e.g. the Dybbuk's Possess Corpse ability mentioned in the question does allow it to gain access to the target's knowledge and proficiencies).
              $endgroup$
              – PJRZ
              Jan 10 at 13:24










            • $begingroup$
              Aspects of a PC's personality are written on a character sheet: the default PC character sheet has their Ideals, Bond, and Flaw. Would those be included then since they are written and, in a sense, measurable? What about alignment?
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:36












            • $begingroup$
              Also, can you cite the source of how you came to this answer? Where in the rules does it say this? Right now, I have no idea if this is your opinion on what it should be or what the rules say "game statistics" mean.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:37












            • $begingroup$
              @PJRZ True Polymorph gives the everything the mimicked creature has, except personality and alignment. You get abilities and proficiencies but don't get what makes that creature what it is (alignment, personality, bonds, ideals etc).
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 12:45










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose I answered based on what I understood from PHB and MM. As you said, ideals, bond and flaws are not included and are not measurable. While alignment is also qualitative, you can argument it is measurable as the distance from the centre of the chaos-order/good-evil axes. As a person that had partial amnesia, I see knowledge and memories as different things since I kept the knowledge and lost the memories and this might have biased my opinion on this matter. As I said, nowhere in your character sheet is meant to write the details of your interpersonal relationships.
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 13:04


















            • $begingroup$
              Unless specifically mentioned otherwise (e.g. the Dybbuk's Possess Corpse ability mentioned in the question does allow it to gain access to the target's knowledge and proficiencies).
              $endgroup$
              – PJRZ
              Jan 10 at 13:24










            • $begingroup$
              Aspects of a PC's personality are written on a character sheet: the default PC character sheet has their Ideals, Bond, and Flaw. Would those be included then since they are written and, in a sense, measurable? What about alignment?
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:36












            • $begingroup$
              Also, can you cite the source of how you came to this answer? Where in the rules does it say this? Right now, I have no idea if this is your opinion on what it should be or what the rules say "game statistics" mean.
              $endgroup$
              – Rubiksmoose
              Jan 10 at 13:37












            • $begingroup$
              @PJRZ True Polymorph gives the everything the mimicked creature has, except personality and alignment. You get abilities and proficiencies but don't get what makes that creature what it is (alignment, personality, bonds, ideals etc).
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 12:45










            • $begingroup$
              @Rubiksmoose I answered based on what I understood from PHB and MM. As you said, ideals, bond and flaws are not included and are not measurable. While alignment is also qualitative, you can argument it is measurable as the distance from the centre of the chaos-order/good-evil axes. As a person that had partial amnesia, I see knowledge and memories as different things since I kept the knowledge and lost the memories and this might have biased my opinion on this matter. As I said, nowhere in your character sheet is meant to write the details of your interpersonal relationships.
              $endgroup$
              – Aguinaldo Silvestre
              Jan 11 at 13:04
















            $begingroup$
            Unless specifically mentioned otherwise (e.g. the Dybbuk's Possess Corpse ability mentioned in the question does allow it to gain access to the target's knowledge and proficiencies).
            $endgroup$
            – PJRZ
            Jan 10 at 13:24




            $begingroup$
            Unless specifically mentioned otherwise (e.g. the Dybbuk's Possess Corpse ability mentioned in the question does allow it to gain access to the target's knowledge and proficiencies).
            $endgroup$
            – PJRZ
            Jan 10 at 13:24












            $begingroup$
            Aspects of a PC's personality are written on a character sheet: the default PC character sheet has their Ideals, Bond, and Flaw. Would those be included then since they are written and, in a sense, measurable? What about alignment?
            $endgroup$
            – Rubiksmoose
            Jan 10 at 13:36






            $begingroup$
            Aspects of a PC's personality are written on a character sheet: the default PC character sheet has their Ideals, Bond, and Flaw. Would those be included then since they are written and, in a sense, measurable? What about alignment?
            $endgroup$
            – Rubiksmoose
            Jan 10 at 13:36














            $begingroup$
            Also, can you cite the source of how you came to this answer? Where in the rules does it say this? Right now, I have no idea if this is your opinion on what it should be or what the rules say "game statistics" mean.
            $endgroup$
            – Rubiksmoose
            Jan 10 at 13:37






            $begingroup$
            Also, can you cite the source of how you came to this answer? Where in the rules does it say this? Right now, I have no idea if this is your opinion on what it should be or what the rules say "game statistics" mean.
            $endgroup$
            – Rubiksmoose
            Jan 10 at 13:37














            $begingroup$
            @PJRZ True Polymorph gives the everything the mimicked creature has, except personality and alignment. You get abilities and proficiencies but don't get what makes that creature what it is (alignment, personality, bonds, ideals etc).
            $endgroup$
            – Aguinaldo Silvestre
            Jan 11 at 12:45




            $begingroup$
            @PJRZ True Polymorph gives the everything the mimicked creature has, except personality and alignment. You get abilities and proficiencies but don't get what makes that creature what it is (alignment, personality, bonds, ideals etc).
            $endgroup$
            – Aguinaldo Silvestre
            Jan 11 at 12:45












            $begingroup$
            @Rubiksmoose I answered based on what I understood from PHB and MM. As you said, ideals, bond and flaws are not included and are not measurable. While alignment is also qualitative, you can argument it is measurable as the distance from the centre of the chaos-order/good-evil axes. As a person that had partial amnesia, I see knowledge and memories as different things since I kept the knowledge and lost the memories and this might have biased my opinion on this matter. As I said, nowhere in your character sheet is meant to write the details of your interpersonal relationships.
            $endgroup$
            – Aguinaldo Silvestre
            Jan 11 at 13:04




            $begingroup$
            @Rubiksmoose I answered based on what I understood from PHB and MM. As you said, ideals, bond and flaws are not included and are not measurable. While alignment is also qualitative, you can argument it is measurable as the distance from the centre of the chaos-order/good-evil axes. As a person that had partial amnesia, I see knowledge and memories as different things since I kept the knowledge and lost the memories and this might have biased my opinion on this matter. As I said, nowhere in your character sheet is meant to write the details of your interpersonal relationships.
            $endgroup$
            – Aguinaldo Silvestre
            Jan 11 at 13:04


















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