Giant Octopus
Large Beast, unaligned
200 XP
Special Abilities
Hold Breath
While out of water, the octopus can hold its breath for 1 hour.
Underwater Camouflage
The octopus has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made while underwater.
Water Breathing
The octopus can breathe only underwater.
Actions
Tentacles
Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a creature, it is grappled (escape DC 16). Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained, and the octopus can't use its tentacles on another target.
Ink Cloud (Recharges after a Short or Long Rest)
A 20-foot-radius cloud of ink extends all around the octopus if it is underwater. The area is heavily obscured for 1 minute, although a significant current can disperse the ink. After releasing the ink, the octopus can use the Dash action as a bonus action.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The Giant Octopus is a cunning predator that uses its intelligence and aquatic environment to control the battlefield. Have it use the Ink Cloud action to obscure vision and create escape routes or ambush opportunities. Position it to leverage three-dimensional movement and grappling tactics with its multiple arms. Consider using terrain features like rocks, coral, or shipwrecks to create cover and hiding spots.
Combat Tactics
The Giant Octopus prioritizes grappling with its tentacles to restrain prey while using its bite on helpless targets. It will use Ink Cloud defensively when threatened by multiple opponents, then relocate to regain advantage. If heavily damaged, it attempts to flee into deeper water or narrow crevices where larger creatures cannot follow.
Environment & Setting
Giant Octopi thrive in coastal waters, rocky reefs, shipwrecks, and underwater caves where they can use terrain for ambushes. They work well in encounters requiring naval adventures, coastal raids, or underwater exploration campaigns.