Basilisk DnD 5e Explained
Have you ever wanted to try role-playing games, but struggled to sort through the complexity of rules and never felt like you had a proper grasp on your character’s capabilities?
Dungeons & Dragons (DnD) is one of the most popular fantasy roleplaying game franchises in the world. As part of this universe, there are hundreds of monsters, creatures and races that you can use to customize your characters and adventures. The Basilisk is an incredibly powerful monster with immense magical powers.

For all DnD 5e players looking for a challenge, a Basilisk could be just what you need! In this article, we’ll explain every element about DnDs very own Basilisk, from its backstory to combat strategies when facing it as an enemy. We’ll also discuss some ways you can incorporate one into your own campaign if you’re feeling brave or creative enough!
Are you just starting out with Dungeons and Dragons? Are you a bit intimidated by the complexity of the game? Don’t worry, here is an overview of one of the most iconic creatures in DnD 5e – The Basilisk! Keep reading to learn more about this intimidating creature and how to add them into your next adventure.
1. Understand Its Origin
Basilisks are large snake-like monsters that originated from Greek mythology. They were described as reptilian, wingless creatures with sharp claws and rows of teeth on their lower jaw. Besides petrifying foes with its gaze, it was commonly considered poisonous, too. This version of the Basilisk has been adapted and is now a staple monster in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition.
2. Learn the Basics About Its Stat Block
In DnD 5e, the typical basilisk has an Intelligence score of 2 or 3, a Challenge Rating (CR) between 4 and 10 (depending on size), a Speed stat of 20 feet and a Natural Armor bonus around 15 or 16 (again depending on its size). It also comes with Keen Senses, blindsight up to 30 feet, and Multiattack which includes two attacks: one bite attack (piercing) or Glare (the Petrifying Gaze!). Note that these stats can vary from Dungeon Master to Dungeon Master and that is completely allowable due to some elements being optional in the Monster Manual.
3. READ UP ON ITS SPECIAL ABILITIES AND ACTIONS
The basilisk has several special abilities that make it both intriguing and dangerous for any adventuring party brave enough to take them on!
For example: Petrified Gaze – if you glance into the eyes of a basilisk beast you may become victor—or victim—of its transfigurative powers; Or cowering Glare – forcing your opponents to shrink back before you whisper comforting words only as even ear-shattering battle cries could not stand against such horrific terror! Once these conditions wear off, any resistance toward the group will be significantly reduced (note this does not affect creatures immune to magical fear effects).

Additionally it has other capabilities such as Fast Movement for quickly traversing through hostile environments; Burrow – using its tough scales it can dig tunnels under vast landscapes; And Swallow Whole – allowing it to crush creatures by completely swallowing them whole. Finally it also comes along with Multiattack action which allows it to hit twice in a round melee combat scenario making it even deadlier than usual!
4. Decide How It Fits in Your Campaign
Now that you have familiarized yourself with what a basilisk is capable of lore-wise and rules-wise, decide how they fit into your campaign world setting! You can make them friendly wanderers with gentle hearts who deeply miss home but find solace amongst adventurous parties or they can be soulless predators seeking fresh prey at all costs!
Consider where they live according to geographical area themes — check out maps online if need be–what kind of curses their gaze can cause when used carelessly etc…The options are endless ! Just remember that whatever choices you make will colorfully shape each unique adventure so have fun designing stories around this legendary creature !
What is a Basilisk?
Basilisks are a fearsome creature found in the Underdark or other cave systems. They possess a 60ft darkvision and a bite attack that deals 2d6+3 Piercing Damage and 2d6 Poison Damage. Furthermore, they have the ability to turn other creatures to stone with a DC 12 Con Saving Throw. As such, it is important for adventurers to be prepared when encountering one of these creatures as they can be quite dangerous.
In addition to being an intimidating foe, Basilisk is also used for astrodynamics research. It is used to model complex spacecraft dynamical behaviors, develop new guidance, estimation and control solutions, as well as support mission concept development and flight software development. Additionally, it can be used for hardware in the loop testing, analysis of flight data and supporting spacecraft AI based autonomy development. All in all, Basilisk is an incredibly versatile creature both on the battlefield and in space exploration research.
How to use a Basilisk?
Basilisks are a formidable foe, especially for low-level adventurers. They are 8-legged lizard-like creatures typically found in the Underdark, and possess a 60ft darkvision and a bite attack that deals 2d6+3 Piercing Damage and 2d6 Poison Damage. Furthermore, they have the ability to turn other creatures to stone with a DC 12 Con Saving Throw. As such, it is important to use a Basilisk early in your campaign in order to foreshadow its presence with other creatures turned to stone.
When preparing for an encounter with a Basilisk, it is important to create dread with the stakes of the battle. The party should be aware of what they are up against and how best to prepare for it. A Basilisk is a CR 3 creature, typically encountered early on in campaigns, so it can be a tough encounter and should be prepared for accordingly.

Can a Basilisk turn itself to stone in 5e?
Basilisks are a formidable creature that can be found in the Underdark or other cave systems. They possess 60ft darkvision and a bite attack that deals 2d6+3 Piercing Damage and 2d6 Poison Damage. The most dangerous ability of a basilisk is its ability to turn other creatures to stone with a DC 12 Con Saving Throw. This makes them a tough encounter for lower level parties, as they could potentially be wiped out if one or more characters are turned to stone. It is important to have a plan of action in place should this happen, such as having an NPC cleric on hand who can cast the spell ‘Greater Restoration’ or using magical items such as ‘Stoneskin’ potions.
Unfortunately, there is no way for a Basilisk to turn itself to stone in 5e. This means that it must rely on its natural defenses and abilities when facing off against adventurers.

Basilisks are a great creature to use in your game. Not only do they provide an exciting challenge for players, but they can also be quite intimidating. With their ability to petrify anyone who looks into their eyes, basilisks can make for a thrilling encounter. They are also relatively low-level creatures, making them accessible to most players.
Thus, basilisks are an excellent choice for any game master looking to add some excitement and danger to their campaign. Whether you’re looking for a formidable foe or just something to spice up your game, basilisks can provide the perfect solution.