First Look at the New Manual

What is the New D&D Monster Manual?

The new D&D 2025 monster manual is part of the One D&D update. It introduces new creatures, addresses player concerns, and complements the changes from One D&D.

The book integrates content from Mordenkainen’s Tome of Foes and Volo’s Guide to Monsters. Initially planned for the 50th anniversary of Dungeons & Dragons, it will be released on February 18, 2025.

Is the New Monster Manual Fifth Edition?

Yes, the D&D 2025 monster manual will use the core rules of D&D 5e. It remains compatible with all previously published 5th edition material.

It will not be a new (6th) edition or a “5.5” version. Players and Wizards of the Coast are divided on what to call this new version, with names like “DnD 5.1” and “DnD 5.24” being suggested.

How is the 2025 Monster Manual Different from the 2014 Version?

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More Monsters

The new D&D 2025 monster manual will have over 500 creatures, a significant increase from the 300 in the 2014 version.

This includes new monsters and creatures from existing D&D 5e material.

The book will be more extensive, with more tables for random encounters and in-depth details on monster ecology and history.

Challenge Level Changes

Much of the new D&D 2025 monster manual will focus on creatures with Challenge Rating (CR) 10 and above.

This means more monsters for high-level groups to face and fewer monsters that are easily defeated by powerful characters.

The new statistics will be updated to reflect more accurate calculations.

New Knowledge and Stories

The new D&D 2025 monster manual will include more updated information about creatures’ ecology and lairs.

There will be more detail on the monsters’ backgrounds in addition to the stat blocks. This approach is similar to other books, such as MCDM’s Flee, Mortals.

New Illustrations

Wizards of the Coast has indicated that the book will feature a wide range of new illustrations from a variety of artists.

The company has recently faced criticism for its use of AI in illustrations, but has adopted a policy that prohibits any AI-generated art in its products.

New Monster “Families”

An interesting concept discussed by Wizards of the Coast is the inclusion of monster “families”, similar to the dragon family (i.e. dragonborn, wyrmlings, ancient wyrms).

Thus, this concept has great potential for both narrative and gameplay.

When Will the New D&D Monster Manual Be Released?

The new D&D 5e monster manual will be released on February 18, 2025. It will be available for pre-order as a physical and digital bundle on D&D Beyond.

If you pre-order from a local store, you can receive an early copy on February 4, 2025.

How Much Does the New D&D Monster Manual Cost?

The D&D 2025 Monster Manual will cost $49.99 USD for the print version and $29.99 USD for the digital version on D&D Beyond.

There is a physical-digital bundle that includes all three core books, costing $179.97 at D&D Beyond, representing a savings of $60.

Is there an Alternate Cover for the D&D Monster Manual?

Yes, there is an alternative cover available for purchase. This version features original artwork by illustrator Lena Richards and a gold frame by Simen Meyer.

The alternate cover features a mind flayer holding a tadpole.

Final considerations

Monsters are a critical part of Dungeons & Dragons.

The new D&D 2025 monster book seeks to evolve the vast collection of creatures, adding new challenges, more options, and more story to bring these beings to life.

The book is available for pre-order now on D&D Beyond and Amazon.