Shield Guardian
Large Construct, unaligned
2,900 XP
Special Abilities
Bound
The shield guardian is magically bound to an amulet. As long as the guardian and its amulet are on the same plane of existence, the amulet's wearer can telepathically call the guardian to travel to it, and the guardian knows the distance and direction to the amulet. If the guardian is within 60 feet of the amulet's wearer, half of any damage the wearer takes (rounded up) is transferred to the guardian.
Regeneration
The shield guardian regains 10 hit points at the start of its turn if it has at least 1 hit. point.
Spell Storing
A spellcaster who wears the shield guardian's amulet can cause the guardian to store one spell of 4th level or lower. To do so, the wearer must cast the spell on the guardian. The spell has no effect but is stored within the guardian. When commanded to do so by the wearer or when a situation arises that was predefined by the spellcaster, the guardian casts the stored spell with any parameters set by the original caster, requiring no components. When the spell is cast or a new spell is stored, any previously stored spell is lost.
Actions
Multiattack
The guardian makes two fist attacks.
Fist
Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The Shield Guardian is a magical construct bound to serve its master, making it ideal for encounters where it protects a spellcaster or important NPC. Use its Spell Reflection ability to create tension—players must decide whether to cast spells or engage in melee. Position the guardian defensively around its master, and remember it can use its reaction to take damage meant for nearby creatures. Consider having the construct's master issue commands that alter its tactics mid-combat, keeping players uncertain of its behavior.
Combat Tactics
The Shield Guardian prioritizes protecting its bonded master by using its reaction to absorb damage meant for them. It attacks with its Fist or Greatsword while maintaining a defensive position, using Spell Reflection to punish casters. If its master is threatened, the guardian will move to interpose itself, forcing melee combatants to decide between targeting the construct or pushing past it.
Environment & Setting
Shield Guardians work well in noble estates, wizard towers, or temples where a powerful NPC requires protection. They fit encounters in treasure vaults, throne rooms, or during a confrontation with a magic-user who has hired or created the construct as insurance.