D\&D Mounts: Beastmasters, Druids & Magic

Acquiring mounts in Dungeons & Dragons extends beyond conventional methods; Beastmaster Rangers form deep bonds with creatures, training them as loyal companions and mounts. Druids wild shape ability offers a transformative approach, enabling them to become the mount themselves, providing unique mobility options. Magic items, such as the Carpet of Flying, present extraordinary means of aerial transport, granting the party strategic advantages. Summoning spells can conjure temporary steeds from other planes, offering a quick but fleeting solution to traverse the vast landscapes of your campaign setting.

More Than Just a Ride

Forget point A to point B. In the sprawling landscapes of fantasy, a mount is so much more than just a way to get around! They’re walking (or flying, or slithering) plot devices, furry (or scaled, or chitinous) status symbols, and sometimes, your only hope against a goblin horde. Think of Shadowfax, Gandalf’s trusty steed, or the dragons Daenerys Targaryen commanded – these aren’t just taxis; they’re key players in the unfolding drama.

Hooves, Claws, and Scales: The Strategic Side

Whether it’s a swift horse charging into battle or a lumbering elephant demolishing enemy lines, mounts have a major impact on the strategic landscape. They can grant unmatched mobility for exploration, offering a bird’s-eye view of the terrain. A noble can signal authority by riding an exceptionally rare or powerful mount, cementing their place in the social hierarchy. In short, choosing the right mount isn’t just about comfort; it’s about power.

A Stable Full of Possibilities

From the humble donkey patiently carrying your gear to the fiery nightmare snorting hellfire beneath a dark knight, the world of fantasy mounts is incredibly diverse. You’ve got your workhorses (literally), your magical marvels, and everything in between. Each comes with its own set of quirks, advantages, and, let’s face it, hilarious potential for mishaps.

Choose Wisely, Adventurer!

But how do you pick the perfect partner for your grand adventures? The answer can dramatically change your character’s story and maybe even determine their survival. So saddle up, because we’re about to dive headfirst into the fascinating world of fantasy mounts, where choosing the right ride can mean the difference between victory and a very bumpy demise!

The Humble Heroes: Common Mounts and Their Virtues

In the vibrant tapestries of fantasy realms, not all heroes ride dragons or soar on griffons. Sometimes, the most dependable companions are the *unsung heroes* of the animal kingdom – the common mounts. These creatures, often overlooked for their lack of flash and spectacle, are the backbone of transportation, trade, and even warfare in many a fantastical setting. Let’s saddle up and explore the virtues of these steadfast allies!

Donkeys: The Unassuming Workhorses

Picture this: a weathered traveler, laden with goods, trudging through a rocky mountain pass. Chances are, they’re accompanied by a donkey. These hardy creatures are the *SUV’s of the fantasy world*, renowned for their ability to carry heavy loads across difficult terrain. Donkeys may not be the fastest or most glamorous steeds, but their affordability and **resilience*_ make them invaluable to merchants, farmers, and anyone needing a reliable pack animal.

Mules: The Best of Both Worlds

When you need a bit more oomph than a donkey can provide, enter the mule. As a hybrid of a horse and a donkey, mules inherit the *best traits of both parents*. They boast the **strength of a horse_ combined with the _endurance of a donkey*_, making them superb pack animals for long journeys. Mules are intelligent, sure-footed, and possess a remarkable work ethic, making them a favorite among adventurers and traders alike.

Oxen: The Gentle Giants of Agriculture

In the idyllic countryside, where rolling fields meet the horizon, you’ll often find oxen diligently at work. These **powerful bovines_ are the _powerhouses of agriculture_, capable of pulling heavy carts and plows with ease. While their pace may be slow and steady, their **_immense strength__ is unmatched. Oxen are gentle giants, often forming strong bonds with their handlers, and are essential for cultivating the land and sustaining communities.

Horses: A Breed Apart

Ah, the horse – a symbol of *nobility, speed, and versatility*. But not all horses are created equal! From the sturdy draft horses that haul heavy loads to the swift warhorses that thunder across the battlefield, different breeds are suited for different purposes. While horses offer unparalleled speed and agility, they also come with higher costs in terms of *maintenance, training, and temperament*. Choosing the right breed for the job is crucial, whether you’re a knight charging into battle or a messenger delivering urgent news.

Camels: Ships of the Desert

Venture into the scorching deserts, and you’ll encounter the camel – a creature uniquely adapted to survive in arid landscapes. With their ability to *store water for extended periods*_ and their tolerance for extreme heat, camels are the **_ships of the desert_*_, enabling travelers to cross vast stretches of barren land. Their distinctive gait may take some getting used to, but their resilience and dependability make them indispensable for desert nomads and explorers.

Elephants: The Majestic Behemoths

Finally, we arrive at the elephant – a symbol of *immense power, intelligence, and majesty*. These gentle giants are capable of carrying royalty, assisting in construction, and even participating in warfare. Training an elephant requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of their complex behavior. However, the rewards are well worth the effort, as elephants are loyal, intelligent, and capable of performing incredible feats.

Consider the Terrain

When choosing a common mount, remember that the *environment and terrain play a crucial role*. A horse might be ideal for traversing open plains, but a donkey would be better suited for navigating rocky mountains. A camel is essential for desert travel, while an ox is perfect for plowing fields. By carefully considering the challenges of the journey, you can select the perfect mount for your needs and ensure a safe and successful adventure.

Whispers of Magic: Enchanted and Celestial Mounts

Let’s ditch the mundane for a moment and soar into the sparkling realm of magical mounts! We’re talking creatures ripped straight from legends, breathing enchantment and reeking of awesomeness. These aren’t your grandma’s horses; they’re embodiments of power, prestige, and a direct line to the otherworldly. Owning one? It’s like having a cheat code for life… with a few quirky caveats, of course.

Griffons: Sky Kings and Noble Protectors

Imagine a creature with the head and wings of an eagle, and the body of a lion. Yup, that’s a griffon! They’re not just pretty faces; these majestic beasts are synonymous with nobility and guardianship. Think of them as the celestial bodyguards of the fantasy world, fiercely protective of those they deem worthy. Need to impress the Elven King? Arrive on a griffon. Want to look intimidating while patrolling the skies? Griffon is your friend. Their aerial combat prowess is unmatched, making them a formidable ally in any battle.

Hippogriffs: Half-Eagle, Half-Horse, All Attitude

Take a griffon, swap the lion bits for a horse, and you’ve got yourself a hippogriff! These creatures are like the rebellious teenagers of the magical mount world. They’re intelligent, proud, and incredibly difficult to tame. But, if you earn their respect (think generous offerings of shiny objects and showing unwavering courage), you’ll have a loyal companion for life. Mastering a hippogriff is like passing the ultimate test of character. Plus, who wouldn’t want to ride a creature that looks like it belongs on the cover of a heavy metal album?

Pegasi: Wings of Inspiration and Freedom

Ah, the pegasus – the epitome of grace and beauty. These winged horses aren’t just about getting from point A to point B; they’re about soaring above the mundane and connecting with something higher. Often associated with deities, heroes, and all things inspiring, pegasi symbolize freedom and the unbridled spirit. Riding one is like injecting pure joy into your veins. Just try not to get too distracted by the sheer awesomeness of flying on a winged horse.

The Price of Magic: Responsibilities and Challenges

Now, before you rush off to find your magical steed, let’s talk responsibility. Owning a magical mount isn’t all rainbows and soaring through the clouds. These creatures require specialized care, training, and a deep understanding of their unique needs. Bonding with a magical mount is a two-way street; they’re not just pets, they’re partners. Be prepared to face challenges, make sacrifices, and earn their trust. After all, with great power comes great responsibility… and a whole lot of stable cleaning.

The Shadowy Steeds: Monstrous and Infernal Mounts

Alright, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to take a detour down a darker, furrier (and maybe fire-breathing) path! Forget your trusty steeds; we’re diving headfirst into the realm of mounts that would make your grandma clutch her pearls. We’re talking creatures of nightmare, beasts of burden that are more burden than beast, and the kind of rides that come with a hefty dose of existential dread.

So, why would anyone want a mount that’s more likely to eat them than carry them? Well, power, baby! Control! And a whole lot of edgy coolness, let’s be honest. But before you go trading in your horse for a hellhound, let’s talk about what you’re getting yourself into.

Dire Wolves: When “Good Boy” Isn’t in Their Vocabulary

Imagine a wolf, but, like, way bigger. And angrier. That’s a Dire Wolf for you. These bad boys aren’t exactly cuddly companions; they’re apex predators with a serious attitude problem.

• Size Matters: We’re not talking oversized puppies here. Dire Wolves can be the size of a small horse, giving you a serious height advantage (and intimidation factor).
• Ferocity Unleashed: These aren’t your friendly neighborhood wolves. They’re fierce, aggressive, and always ready for a fight. Great for scaring off bandits, not so great for making friends at the local tavern.
• Pack Mentality: Dire Wolves are pack animals, meaning they’re strongest in numbers. If you manage to tame one, you’re essentially adopting its entire family (whether you like it or not).
• Hunting and Tracking Prowess: Need to find someone who’s gone missing? Or maybe just track down that rare magical herb? A Dire Wolf’s keen senses and tracking abilities are unmatched.

Of course, owning a Dire Wolf comes with its risks. They require a constant supply of meat, can be difficult to control (especially in crowded areas), and might just decide you look like a tasty snack one day. But hey, no one ever said being cool was easy, right?

Nightmares: The Ultimate Status Symbol for the Evilly Inclined

Now, if Dire Wolves are the SUVs of the monstrous mount world, Nightmares are the Lamborghinis. These aren’t just horses; they’re fiery, shadowy manifestations of the underworld itself.

• Fiery Hooves: Ever wanted to leave a trail of burning footprints wherever you go? Nightmares have you covered (literally). Their hooves are wreathed in flames, making them perfect for setting fire to enemy villages (or just looking really, really cool).
• Shadowy Forms: Nightmares are often shrouded in darkness, making them difficult to see in the dark. This gives you a serious advantage in nighttime battles or when you just want to sneak up on unsuspecting victims.
• Connection to the Underworld: Nightmares are intrinsically linked to the underworld, making them ideal companions for warlocks, necromancers, and anyone else who likes to dabble in the dark arts.
• Suitability for Evil Knights: Let’s be honest, if you’re an evil knight, you’re practically required to have a Nightmare. It’s like a uniform thing.

However, riding a Nightmare isn’t all sunshine and rainbows (or rather, fire and brimstone). These creatures are incredibly temperamental, require a strong will to control, and have a nasty habit of dragging their riders straight to hell if they’re not careful. Plus, they’re probably not going to win you any popularity contests with the local villagers.

Ethical Considerations and Potential Consequences

So, you’ve got your eye on a Dire Wolf or a Nightmare. Awesome! But before you sign on the dotted line (or make a deal with a demon), let’s talk about the ethics of owning such a creature.

Are you prepared to handle the responsibility of caring for a potentially dangerous animal? Can you justify the use of a creature that’s inherently aligned with evil? And what happens if your mount decides to go rogue and start terrorizing the countryside?

These are all important questions to consider before you take the plunge. Because let’s face it, owning a monstrous mount isn’t just about looking cool; it’s about wielding power, and with great power comes great responsibility.

Harnessing the Arcane: Magic and Mounts in Harmony

So, you’ve got your trusty steed (or maybe not so trusty, if Bessie the donkey is having another sit-down strike). But what if you could sprinkle a little magic on the situation? What if you could conjure the perfect mount, a creature so bonded to you that it practically reads your mind? Well, buckle up buttercup, because that’s where the arcane arts come in! We’re about to dive headfirst into the world of spells and enchantments that can turn your average ride into a legendary companion.

First, we’ll be looking at spells and magical abilities designed to help you acquire, control, and enhance your mount.

Find Steed

Let’s start with the classic, Find Steed. This spell is a game-changer. Forget scouring the stables for a horse that maybe tolerates your presence. Find Steed summons a loyal, intelligent mount, specifically tailored to your needs. We’re talking a strong bond, near-telepathic communication, and a partner who’s got your back (and hooves).

Find Greater Steed

Feeling like you’ve outgrown your trusty pony? Time to upgrade with Find Greater Steed! This spell takes everything you love about Find Steed and cranks it up to eleven. Expect a mount with enhanced capabilities, maybe even some magical or celestial flair. Picture yourself soaring through the skies on a griffon or charging into battle atop a unicorn – this is the spell that makes those dreams a reality.

Conjure Animals

Need a temporary mount, or maybe a whole herd of them? Conjure Animals is your versatile friend. This spell lets you summon a variety of creatures, some of which are perfectly rideable (at least for a short while). Need a pack of wolves to scout ahead? Done. Want a giant lizard to carry your party across the swamp? No problem (as long as you don’t mind the smell).

Animate Dead

Okay, things are about to get a little spooky. Animate Dead opens up the possibility of using undead creatures as mounts. We’re talking skeletal horses, zombie elephants, the works. Before you start raising the undead cavalry, let’s consider the ethical and practical implications. Are you okay with riding a reanimated corpse? Will your fellow adventurers be thrilled to travel with a rotting steed? And more importantly, can you keep it from falling apart mid-gallop?

Training and Techniques

Once you’ve got your mount (magical or otherwise), it’s time to level up its abilities. Training methods vary, but some common techniques include:

• Magical Bonding Rituals: Strengthening the connection between rider and mount, enhancing communication and loyalty.
• Enchanted Barding: Equipping your mount with magical armor that enhances its strength, speed, or defenses.
• Spellcasting Assistance: Teaching your mount to cast simple spells or to channel your own magical energy.

With the right spells and a little bit of training, you can transform your mount into a truly extraordinary companion, a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield and a trusted friend on the open road. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility (and maybe a little bit of horse manure).

Class and Mount: A Match Made in Fantasy Heaven (Or Hell!)

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we’re diving headfirst into the seriously cool world where your character’s class and their mount become the ultimate power couple! Forget awkward first dates, we’re talking symbiotic relationships so strong, they’d make peanut butter and jelly jealous. Certain classes in fantasy settings don’t just get a mount; they become something more with it, unlocking special abilities and benefits that make them a force to be reckoned with. So, let’s saddle up and explore these fantastic partnerships!

Paladin’s Divine Steed: Holy Horsepower!

Picture this: a Paladin, radiating righteous fury, astride a steed bathed in celestial light. This isn’t just any horse; it’s a Divine Steed, a gift from the heavens themselves. The bond between a Paladin and their mount is a thing of legend, granting them not just speed and mobility, but enhanced combat abilities and divine protection. We’re talking smiting evil from the saddle, healing allies with a touch, and generally being a beacon of hope on four (or more, if you’re feeling creative) legs. The steed itself is often more intelligent and perceptive than your average nag, acting as a loyal companion and war-beast. Talk about a holy terror!

Ranger’s Beast Master Companion: A Wild Ride!

Now, let’s gallop over to the Ranger, specifically the Beast Master. These nature-loving heroes aren’t just friends with animals; they form profound connections with them. This connection often manifests as a loyal animal companion that can, and very often does, serve as a mount! Think wolves, big cats, or even something more exotic (Giant Lizards anyone?). The Ranger’s mount isn’t just transportation; it’s a combat ally, a scout, and a friend. They share a telepathic bond, allowing for seamless communication and tactical maneuvers that’ll leave enemies scratching their heads (before getting clawed, of course!). The Ranger and their companion are an unstoppable force in the wilderness.

Druid’s Wild Shape: Be the Mount, Ride the Mount!

Last but definitely not least, we have the Druid – masters of shapeshifting and the wild. While they might not always need a traditional mount, their ability to transform into animal forms offers a unique twist! A Druid could Wild Shape into a powerful beast and carry allies into battle. Alternatively, they could ride alongside other wild creatures with the same kind of beast. Imagine a Druid transforming into an eagle and riding a friendly Giant Eagle, or taking the form of a wolf and running with a pack of Dire Wolves! The possibilities are endless, and it gives the Druid an unmatched level of versatility and adaptability in any situation. This makes the Druid a literal mount!

Gears and Glamour: Magic Items for the Discerning Rider

So, you’ve got your trusty steed – maybe it’s a sturdy Clydesdale, a graceful unicorn, or even a slightly singed Nightmare. But let’s be honest, even the best mount could use a little… pizzazz. That’s where magical items come in! These aren’t just trinkets; they’re game-changers that can turn a good ride into an epic one, improving comfort, control, and raw power.

Saddle Up in Style

• Saddle of the Cavalier: Ever feel like a rogue gust of wind or a particularly grumpy goblin could send you tumbling off your saddle? Well, kiss those worries goodbye! This nifty saddle is like the ultimate safety belt for adventurers. It magically anchors you to your mount, preventing you from being dismounted by anything short of, well, maybe a direct hit from a meteor. Perfect for charging into battle, navigating treacherous terrain, or just showing off some seriously cool acrobatics.

Pocket-Sized Powerhouses

• Figurines of Wondrous Power: Talk about convenience! These aren’t your grandma’s porcelain cats. Each figurine, often crafted in the likeness of an animal, holds the potential to transform into a fully-fledged, loyal mount. Need a swift bronze griffon to scout ahead? Bam! How about a hulking marble elephant to smash through enemy lines? Presto! The abilities and forms available vary wildly depending on the figurine, making them both versatile and incredibly fun. Just imagine pulling a rhino out of your pocket when things get tough!

Redefining “Room With a View”

• Carpet of Flying: Who needs roads when you’ve got a magic carpet? This isn’t just some dusty rug from a bazaar. We’re talking a luxuriously woven, magically-propelled platform capable of carrying multiple passengers in style! Perfect for sightseeing, escaping hordes of angry orcs, or just enjoying a romantic picnic above the clouds. Just try not to spill your wine.

The Scooter of the Skies

• Broom of Flying: Sometimes, you just need a quick way to get from A to B, and that’s where the Broom of Flying sweeps in (pun intended!). Simple to operate and surprisingly agile, this is the perfect personal aerial mount for solo adventurers. Just hop on, give it a kick, and you’re soaring through the sky. Think of it as the magic world’s version of a scooter, but way cooler.

Leveling Up Your Roleplaying

These magic items aren’t just about stats and abilities; they’re about creating memorable moments. Imagine the look on your party’s faces when you conjure a giant scorpion from a tiny statuette. Or the sheer joy of outmaneuvering a dragon on your trusty broomstick. These items add flavor, flair, and a whole lot of fun to any campaign, proving that sometimes, the best gear is the kind that makes you smile.

Economics and Ecology: Environment Considerations for Mount Ownership

So, you’ve decided your hero (or villain, we don’t judge) needs a trusty steed. Fantastic! But before you gallop off into the sunset, let’s talk brass tacks… or maybe tack brass, if you’re fancy. Owning a mount isn’t just about looking cool; it’s a big responsibility, both financially and ecologically. Think of it as getting a pet, but one that might accidentally trample your neighbor’s prize-winning pumpkins.

The Coinage of Companionship: Cost of Mounts

Let’s get one thing straight: mounts ain’t cheap. A humble donkey might only set you back a few silver pieces, practically pocket change! But a warhorse bred for battle? We’re talking gold, my friend. And don’t even get me started on magical creatures. A griffon isn’t just going to eat oats; they’ll probably want the finest cuts of meat and maybe a shiny bauble or two to keep them happy. The cost depends on several factors: the mount’s type, its rarity, and the quality of its training. A freshly broken horse will be cheaper than one that can understand battle commands and do a dressage routine that would make a noble weep.

Location, Location, Location: Availability of Mounts

Ever tried buying a camel in the middle of a snowy mountain range? Good luck with that! The availability of mounts is heavily influenced by geography, climate, and the local culture. Desert regions will naturally have more camels and dromedaries, while grasslands might be teeming with horses. Beyond the natural habitat, the political landscape of a region can play a huge role. If a country is at war, warhorses are likely to be in high demand, while an agricultural society might have a large population of oxen and draft horses. The bigger the settlement may also influence what mounts are available for you to buy.

From Zero to Hero: Training of Mounts

Think your mount will instinctively know how to follow your every command? Think again! Training is crucial, and it takes time, resources, and specialized expertise. A wild horse needs to be broken and taught basic commands, while a warhorse requires extensive training in combat maneuvers. Even seemingly simple mounts like donkeys benefit from training to carry specific loads or navigate difficult terrain. Be prepared to either invest the time yourself (if you have the skills) or hire a professional trainer. A well-trained mount is worth its weight in gold (especially if it is carrying gold for you!).

Tread Lightly: Environmental and Ethical Implications

Finally, let’s not forget the environment and the ethics of mount ownership. Overgrazing can turn lush lands into barren wastelands, so consider the impact of your mount’s diet on the surrounding ecosystem. And ethically speaking, are you treating your mount with respect and kindness? A tired, overworked, or abused mount is not only cruel but also less effective. By considering the environmental impact, ethical responsibilities, and practical needs of your steed, you ensure not only your mounts will perform but also a better (and more sustainable) world.

Rules & Mechanics: Giddy Up and Game On!

So, you’ve got a fantastic array of mounts galloping through your fantasy world – awesome! But how do you actually make them work in your game? Time to dive into the nitty-gritty of rules and mechanics. We’re talking about movement speeds, combat maneuvers (can your griffon swoop and attack?), and those all-important special abilities. Does your Nightmare steed grant resistance to fire damage? Can a Paladin’s divine steed heal nearby allies? These are the questions that’ll make your players shout “Yeehaw!” (or whatever the fantasy equivalent is).

Consider things like:

• How many rounds can a mount travel at full speed before tiring?
• What skills or saving throws are required to control a particularly unruly beast?
• Does a rider gain advantage on attacks while mounted?
• What happens when a mount is injured or killed? (cue dramatic music)

Think about the mechanical benefits and drawbacks of using different mounts. A heavily armored warhorse might be great for charging into battle, but terrible for navigating a dense forest. A camel is awesome in the desert but might struggle in icy mountains.

Story Integration: More Than Just a Ride

Mounts aren’t just taxis in your world; they’re part of the story. A character’s choice of mount can reveal a lot about their personality, background, and even their destiny. Did a noble knight inherit his warhorse from a legendary ancestor? Did a scrappy rogue win their ride in a dicey card game?

Think about how mounts can impact the plot:

• A quest to find a lost herd of unicorns.
• A race against time to deliver a vital message on the back of a swift Pegasus.
• A harrowing escape from a collapsing city aboard a giant, lumbering mammoth.
• A band of elite warriors who rides dragons into battle.

Mounts can also be used to develop characters. A bond between a rider and their mount can be just as strong as any other relationship in your game.

Alignment: Are You Riding With Good or Evil?

Let’s be real, a lawful good paladin probably isn’t going to be cruising around on a nightmare. A character’s alignment can heavily influence their choice of mount and their relationship with it. Good-aligned characters might prefer noble steeds like horses, griffons, or pegasi. Evil-aligned characters might favor monstrous creatures like dire wolves, nightmares, or even undead horrors.

Consider the following:

• Does a character’s alignment affect their ability to control certain types of mounts?
• Can a mount be “corrupted” by an evil rider, or vice versa?
• Are there specific mounts that are only available to characters of certain alignments?

A character’s choice of mount can be a powerful indicator of their moral compass.

Setting: A World of Equestrian Variety

The environment and culture of your setting should heavily influence the types of mounts that are available and their significance. A desert setting might be teeming with camels and giant scorpions, while a frozen tundra might be home to mammoths and dire wolves. A sea-faring kingdom may rely heavily on giant sea turtles for transportation.

Think about how culture shapes the use of mounts:

• Do certain cultures revere specific mounts as sacred animals?
• Are there social classes that are forbidden from riding certain creatures?
• Are there specialized schools or academies for training riders and mounts?

The specific mounts in your world should feel like a natural extension of the environment and culture. A mounted culture of horse-lords would play different with the mounted culture of camel-folk.

Telling Tales: Mounts as Narrative Fuel

Ready to saddle up and spin some yarns? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• A young stablehand discovers they have a natural talent for communicating with horses, leading them on a journey to become the world’s greatest equestrian.
• A group of adventurers must tame a wild griffin in order to cross a treacherous mountain range.
• A knight is cursed to forever ride a Nightmare steed, slowly succumbing to the darkness within.
• A city is under siege, and its only hope lies in a band of pegasus riders who can break through the enemy lines.

By considering the rules, mechanics, and narrative potential of mounts, you can create a truly rich and immersive fantasy world where every ride is an adventure.

So, next time your party’s trekking through the wilderness, maybe skip the stables and think outside the box – or, you know, outside the Material Plane. Who knows? That giant badger with a penchant for carrying adventurers might just be waiting for you. Happy trails, and may your unconventional mounts lead you to glory!