General Rules: Monsters - Diplodocus

Diplodocus (from Dragon Magazine #318)
Colossal Animal

Hit Dice: 28d8+448 (574 hit points)
Initiative: +0
Speed: 20 feet
Armor Class: 14 (-8 size, +12 natural); touch 2, flat-footed 14
BAB/Grapple: +21/+54
Attack: Tail slap +30 melee (4d8+24, bludgeoning, 20 x2)

Full Attack: Tail slap +30 melee (4d8+24, bludgeoning, 20 x2)

Space/Reach: 30 feet by 30 feet/20 feet
Special Attacks: Tail sweep, trample 2d8+24
Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent
Saves: Fortitude +25, Reflex +16, Will +10
Abilities: Str 44, Int 2, Wis 12, Dex 10, Con 28, Cha 10

Skills: Listen +18, Spot +19

Feats: Skill Augmentation (Listen and Spot), Improved Natural Attack (Tail Slap), Run, Toughness x7
Environment: Temperate plains
Organization: Solitary, pair, or herd (6 - 18)
Challenge Rating: 12
Treasure: None
Alignment: Always neutral
Advancement: 29 - 84 Hit Dice (Colossal)

The diplodocus is one of the longest dinosaurs, although its relatively thin neck and tail take it out of the running for heaviest or physically largest.

Diplodocus herds travel across vast plains and along the edges of temperate forests. Slow moving and somewhat ponderous, they gather together in herds for protection against predators Their long necks allow them to reach the succulent tops of most trees, which is fortunate since they must constantly forage to feed their massive bodies.

A diplodocus is usually about 90 feet long and can weigh over 20 tons.

Combat
The diplodocus is a herbivore and by nature not a violent creature, yet they are quick to reach to perceived threats. Against smaller targets, a diplodocus uses its tail sweep to send enemies into disarray before taking advantage of the distraction to flee. Larger predators are rare, bt when encountered, the diplodocus uses its tail slap and depends on other diplodocuses for protection.

Tail Sweep (Ex): As a standard action, a diplodocus can sweep a half-circle with a radius of 40 feet extending from and intersection on the edge of the dinosaur's space. Any creatures smaller than the diplodocuis within the swept area are automatically affected. A tail sweep automatically deals 2d8+24 points of damage. Creatures in the area can attempt a DC 27 Reflex save for half damage. The save DC is Strength-based.

Trample (Ex): Reflex half DC 27. The save DC is Strength-based.

Diplodocuses as Animal Companions
If raised from an egg, a diplodocus can be trained using Handle Animal. A 21^st-level druid, 23^rd-level outdoorsman, or 21^st-level ranger may take a diplodocus as an animal companion.

Home     Three Worlds     Monsters