Minotaur
Large Monstrosity, chaotic evil
700 XP
Special Abilities
Charge
If the minotaur moves at least 10 ft. straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 9 (2d8) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or be pushed up to 10 ft. away and knocked prone.
Labyrinthine Recall
The minotaur can perfectly recall any path it has traveled.
Reckless
At the start of its turn, the minotaur can gain advantage on all melee weapon attack rolls it makes during that turn, but attack rolls against it have advantage until the start of its next turn.
Actions
Greataxe
Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (2d12 + 4) slashing damage.
Gore
Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) piercing damage.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The Minotaur is a straightforward but dangerous melee combatant that excels at controlling space with its Labyrinthine Recall ability and devastating charge attacks. Its high AC and respectable HP pool make it resilient enough to engage a mid-level party head-on. Use the Minotaur's intelligence and maze-knowledge to create dynamic encounters where it uses terrain to its advantage rather than simply standing and fighting. The creature shines when encountered in its natural habitat where it can leverage superior navigation and positioning.
Combat Tactics
The Minotaur prioritizes using its Gore attack as a bonus action after closing distance, often opening combat with a powerful charge to deal extra damage and potentially knock enemies prone. It fights to the death, relentlessly pursuing enemies and using its superior speed (40 ft) to control engagement range. The Minotaur avoids prolonged ranged exchanges, instead closing quickly to force melee combat where it dominates.
Environment & Setting
Minotaurs are ideally encountered in mazes, dungeons with winding corridors, or labyrinthine caverns where their Labyrinthine Recall ability provides tactical advantage. Natural rocky terrain, crumbling ruins, or sprawling underground lairs with multiple passages create memorable encounters that emphasize the creature's nature.