These monsters in the 2025 Monster Manual are no joke.

But the artwork isnt the only change that was made for the better.

Monsters are now in alphabetical order based on their actual name, not their types.

Dungeons & Dragons, Colossus by Maxime Minard, Ancient Lich by Viko Menezes, Empyreans by Nestor Ossandon Leal

The better organization makes it easier for people to flip through the Monster Manual and find their desired creature.

This stands true even when looking at the adjustments to terminology and cultural implications in the Monster Manual.

There are brand new legendary monsters, an increased CR scale, and entirely new mechanics.

DUngeons & Dragons image showing several adventurers, as well as Minsc and Boo.

Levy does note that this is the least necessary core rulebook to have.

Homebrewing is really easy and the Monster Manual isnt all that integral.

you’re able to get it through just aboutany online retailer or at your local gaming store.

Matthew Lillard over an orange background.

What Are Dungeon Masters Saying?

But it doesn’t provide enough game-changing content to be called ‘necessary.’

Kind Of, But Not Really?

Dungeons & Dragons, Vajra Safahr and Minsc face down a Beholder by Tyler Jacobson.

Vajra Safahr and Minsc by Tyler Jacobson

Dungeons & Dragons image showing an arcanaloth.

Art by John Patrick Gañas

Dungeons & Dragons, red-cloaked Archmage and mages gathered together by Viko Menezes.

Mages by Viko Menezes

dungeons-and-dragons-series-game-tabletop-franchise

Tabletop

Dungeon & Dragons