In game books, monsters are typically presented with illustrations, fictional elements, and game statistics. Mauricio Rangel JimГ©nez goes so far to say that a basic knowledge of mythology, religion and fantasy is required to keep pace with the game. The sources of Dungeons & Dragons monsters are diverse, including mythology, medieval bestiaries, science-fiction and fantasy literature, and film. ДЇor publication history, see Monster Manual. The term monster in Dungeons & Dragons can refer to a variety of creatures, including traditional monsters such as dragons, supernatural creatures such as ghosts, and mundane or fantastic animals-in short, 'an enormous heterogeneous collection of natural and monstrous foes.' While many monsters are adapted from pre-existing myths and legends, others have been invented specifically for the game, sometimes having characteristics specifically suited to the mechanics of the game. Described as an 'essential' part of Dungeons & Dragons, the game's monsters have become notable in their own right, influencing fields such as video games and fiction, as well as popular culture.

Since the game's first edition in 1974, a bestiary was included along other game manuals, first called Monsters & Treasure and now commonly called the Monster Manual. In the Dungeons & Dragons fantasy role-playing game, 'monsters' are generally the antagonists which players must fight and defeat to progress in the game.

D&d monster template 5e