CR 5 – Beast – Cuddly Swinebeast

Tier 2 play

**Monster Name:** Cuddly Swinebeast

**Size, Type, Alignment:** Large Beast, Unaligned

**Core Stats:** Armor Class (AC) 14, Hit Points (HP) 85, Speed 40 ft.

**Ability Scores:**

Strength 18 (+4),

Dexterity 12 (+1),

Constitution 16 (+3),

Intelligence 2 (-4),

Wisdom 10 (+0),

Charisma 6 (-2)

**Proficiencies:**

Saving Throws: Strength +7, Constitution +6

Skills: Perception +3, Animal Handling +2

Damage Resistances: Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from Nonmagical Attacks

Damage Immunities: None

Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened

**Senses:** Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13

**Languages:** Understands Common but cannot speak

**Challenge Rating (CR):** 5

**Special Abilities:**

– **Mud Shield:** As a reaction, when the Cuddly Swinebeast is hit by an attack, it can reduce the damage taken by 3d6 as it burrows briefly into the mud, creating a shield of mud that absorbs some of the impact.

– **Swine Charge:** If the Cuddly Swinebeast moves at least 20 feet straight toward a target and then hits it with a headbutt attack, the target must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

**Actions:**

– **Multiattack:** The Cuddly Swinebeast makes two attacks: one with its headbutt and one with its stomp.

– **Headbutt:** +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2d8 + 4 bludgeoning damage.

– **Stomp:** Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one prone target. Hit: 2d10 + 4 bludgeoning damage.

– **Mud Blast (Recharge 5-6):** The Cuddly Swinebeast can unleash a blast of mud in a 20-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking 4d10 bludgeoning damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. The area becomes difficult terrain until the end of the Cuddly Swinebeast's next turn.

**Description:** The Cuddly Swinebeast is a large, rotund creature resembling a blend of a pig and a mini cow, with a thick layer of mud covering its body to protect it. Originating from the aftermath of the LA fires where it found refuge, this creature has developed unique adaptations to survive in harsh environments. Despite its imposing size, it has a gentle demeanor, often charging playfully at threats rather than attacking with malice. Tactically, it uses its Mud Shield ability to mitigate damage and its Mud Blast to hinder enemies while maintaining control of the battlefield. Encountering a Cuddly Swinebeast is a reminder of nature's resilience and the humor found even amidst adversity.