Cripplers

Monsters in this Category Include:

 * Banshees
 * Basilisks
 * Carrion Crawlers
 * Cockatrices
 * Umber Hulks

Modus Operandi
Typically cripplers tend to work in small groups or alone. They have moves that are commonly referred to as save or suck abilities. One example of such a move is the banshee's Wail. A crippler will bide its time dealing out a little damage and using support abilities to set up for its crippling move, and if the Party or Character targeted by the ability fails their save, they are put into a situation that is very difficult to come back from.

Designing Encounters for Cripplers
When designing encounters for cripplers it's important to take into account the timing of the ability. A creature with a save or suck ability isn't going to use it until it is either sure it will work, or needs to use it in order to survive.

When you create an encounter for cripplers make sure of the following.


 * Make sure the player's have a chance to recognize the risk represented by fighting this creature. You do not need to out right tell them it's a save or suck, but merely describing the creature in a way that gives a small hint. A banshee whose voice is slowly getting louder, or a carrion crawler who's tentacles are dripping with venom will suffice.


 * Set DC checks for recognition of the creature as most of these are very well known creatures, simply because of the powers they wield.