CREATING MONSTERS
Creatures of the natural world may be rare, elusive, or otherwise uncommon, but they are commonly known and understood to follow the laws of the natural world.
However, tall tales, legends, and myths continue to be told of wondrous or infamous creatures that defy the known laws of nature.
These creatures do not seem to come from or fit into the natural world and encounters with them may require extraordinary effort to survive.
Core Monster Design
Begin creating a monster starting from a natural creature as a base.
◢ Creating Microorganisms
◢ Creating Plants
◢ Creating Animals
Additional Design Considerations
Extend the natural creature into the supernatural with the following additional characteristics.
☐ MONSTER RARITY
Is this monster unique in the setting?
If if it not unique, how many are there, maximum?
☐ MONSTER ORIGINS
Where does this monster come from if not of natural origin?
- Other worlds?
- Other dimensions or planes of Chronology?
- Supernaturally summoned or created?
☐ MONSTER ROLE
Why is this monster present in the setting?
- A legendary guardian of a fantastic treasure?
- An otherworldly invader?
- A fearsome servant of a more fearsome villain?
☐ MONSTER INTELLIGENCE
In what ways are this monster more intelligent or cunning than natural creatures?
What makes it a truly diabolical or fearsome opponent compared to a natural creature?
☐ MONSTER ABILITIES
What Special Effect (SFX) abilities does this monster possess beyond what a natural creature could do?
- Supernatural magic ability?
- Unnatural or metaphysical powers?
- Psionics?