Zombie

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Zombie Introduction

In the dim, flickering light of your torches, a shuffling figure emerges from the shadows, its presence heralded by the unsettling sound of dragging feet and the faint, sickly sweet odor of decay. This is no ordinary foe; it is a Zombie, a creature that defies the natural order, animated by dark magic and driven by an insatiable hunger for the living. Its skin hangs in tattered strips, a ghastly tapestry of rot and ruin, while its eyes, clouded and lifeless, seem to fixate on you with a malevolent intent.

Zombies are the remnants of those who once walked the world of the living, now twisted into grotesque parodies of their former selves. Their movements are slow and deliberate, yet there is an unnerving persistence to their advance, as if they are propelled by a force beyond mortal comprehension. Despite their decayed state, they possess a terrifying strength, capable of overwhelming the unprepared with sheer numbers and relentless determination.

These abominations are often found in places where death lingers heavily in the air—abandoned graveyards, cursed battlefields, and the ruins of ancient civilizations long forgotten. It is said that they are drawn to areas steeped in sorrow and despair, where the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest. Legends speak of necromancers and dark priests who wield the power to raise the dead, binding them to their will as mindless servants, or of cursed lands where the dead rise of their own accord, driven by unfinished business or a deep-seated hatred for the living.

As you stand before this shambling horror, remember that a Zombie is more than just a mindless corpse. It is a reminder of the fragility of life and the ever-present specter of death that looms over all. To face a Zombie is to confront the darkness that lies within the heart of every mortal, and to emerge victorious is to reaffirm the light that guides you through the shadows.

Zombie Skills & Traits

Skills

• Saving Throws: WIS +0

Senses

• Darkvision: 60 ft.
• Passive Perception: 8

Languages

• Understands the languages it knew in life but can't speak

Abilities

• Undead Fortitude: If damage reduces the zombie to 0 hit points, it must make a Constitution saving throw with a DC of 5 + the damage taken, unless the damage is radiant or from a critical hit. On a success, the zombie drops to 1 hit point instead.

Actions

• Slam: Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) bludgeoning damage.

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Zombie Battle Tips

Zombies are classic undead creatures that can add a chilling atmosphere to any campaign. As a dungeon master, utilizing zombies effectively can create memorable encounters for your players. Here are some tips on how to use zombies in battle:

Using Zombies in Battle

• Swarm Tactics: Zombies are most effective in large numbers. Use them to overwhelm players with sheer quantity, forcing them to manage multiple threats at once.
• Environmental Hazards: Place zombies in environments that complement their abilities, such as narrow corridors or dark, enclosed spaces where their slow speed is less of a disadvantage.
• Endurance: Zombies have a unique ability to keep fighting even after taking significant damage. Use this to your advantage by having them absorb hits while other creatures or traps deal damage.

Coordinating Multiple Zombies

• Flanking Maneuvers: Use zombies to flank players, cutting off escape routes and forcing them into difficult positions.
• Divide and Conquer: Have zombies split the party by attacking from multiple directions, making it harder for players to support each other.
• Distraction: Use zombies as a distraction while more intelligent creatures execute a more strategic plan.

Fleeing and Retreating

• Slow Retreat: If the battle turns against them, zombies can slowly retreat, drawing players into traps or ambushes set by more cunning allies.
• Reinforcements: Zombies can retreat to regroup with additional undead reinforcements, returning to the fray with renewed numbers.
• Persistent Threat: Even if they flee, zombies can remain a persistent threat, following the party and attacking when they least expect it.

By using these tips, you can create engaging and challenging encounters with zombies that will keep your players on their toes and enhance the overall experience of your campaign.