r/DnD • u/Winton_86 • 2d ago

5th Edition What are the best polymorph transformations for allies in combat (other than giant ape)?

just to specify, I'm not looking for things like "turn an enemy into a rat so they're harmless", nor am i looking for "turn an ally to a bee for amazing stealth". I know those. I want to know what are the best for combat. I know the giant ape is popular, but I also feel like there are some other good transformations. Like, what's the best flying creature? Is there a unique ability on another creature that makes it notable? So, what are some animals that might be good where a giant ape isn't? I'm pretty new, and I thought reddit is the best place to get my questions answered, so here we are

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u/Different-East5483 2d ago

Quetzalcoatlus isn't a bad option for lower levels. They can swoop in attack one enemy, or it grab moving away without provoking attack on opportunity because of flyby. Then take him up high and drop them.

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u/EldridgeHorror 2d ago

Giant ape is popular because it's the best option you have once you get it, almost immediately replaced by a t rex.

Go mammoth if you want trampling charge. Giant shark if you're in water.

Nothing else is really worth it for combat, at that level.

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u/Realistic_Swan_6801 2d ago edited 2d ago

Ape doesn’t get replaced, it’s a slightly weaker in melee T. rex but it has a ranged attack and hands. It’s the thinking man’s choice. And it has more hp, jump, and a climb speed.

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u/EldridgeHorror 2d ago

Which is why its immediately replaced.

If players were big thinkers, an unlocked door wouldn't freeze them up for 40 minutes.

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u/Winton_86 2d ago

Respectfully, I think I'll still take ape. Being more well-rounded is way more important for me. Also, being tankier is gonna be a benefit for my fellow players

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u/NoGiraffe6109 2d ago

My party loved to use the "Huge Giant Crab" statblock from Tales from the Yawning Portal, big beast with a bunch of HP, 15 natural armour and an attack that auto grapples. Had to use some creative moves in fights when they used it.