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Iron Golem

Large Construct, unaligned

CR 16

15,000 XP

AC: 20 (natural armor)
HP: 210 (20d10+100)
Speed: walk 30 ft.
Senses: darkvision 120 ft., passive Perception 10
Languages: understands the languages of its creator but can't speak
STR
24
+7
DEX
9
-1
CON
20
+5
INT
3
-4
WIS
11
+0
CHA
1
-5

Special Abilities

Fire Absorption

Whenever the golem is subjected to fire damage, it takes no damage and instead regains a number of hit points equal to the fire damage dealt.

Immutable Form

The golem is immune to any spell or effect that would alter its form.

Magic Resistance

The golem has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.

Magic Weapons

The golem's weapon attacks are magical.

Actions

Multiattack

The golem makes two melee attacks.

Slam

Melee Weapon Attack: +13 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 20 (3d8 + 7) bludgeoning damage.

Sword

Melee Weapon Attack: +13 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 23 (3d10 + 7) slashing damage.

Poison Breath (Recharge 5-6)

The golem exhales poisonous gas in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 19 Constitution saving throw, taking 45 (10d8) poison damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.

Quick Reference

Challenge: CR 16
Type: Construct
Size: Large
Alignment: unaligned
Best for party of 4 at level 15-17

Running This Encounter

The Iron Golem is a devastating melee combatant that should be positioned to maximize its Multiattack potential. Use its legendary actions to maintain pressure between turns and force the party into defensive positioning. Its immunity to most conditions and magic resistance make it difficult to control, so emphasize its raw damage output and staying power. Consider placing it in an arena or confined space where the party cannot easily kite or bypass it.

Combat Tactics

The Iron Golem charges directly at the nearest target using its full Multiattack (2 slams + 1 stomp). It prioritizes concentrating damage on a single party member to eliminate threats quickly, then moves to the next target. It stands firm and doesn't retreat, using legendary actions to attack or move whenever possible.

Environment & Setting

Place the Iron Golem in a grand hall, dungeon throne room, or ancient temple vault where its massive size (10 feet tall) is emphasized. Metal-reinforced floors and pillars should frame the battlefield without providing enough cover to trivialize the encounter.