Complete List of Every Monster Group in D&D’s 2025 Monster Manual

Dungeons & Dragons continues to evolve, particularly in its classification of monsters. Each edition of the Monster Manual introduces new groupings that reflect the rich lore and gameplay mechanics inherent to the D&D universe. The forthcoming 2025 edition diverges from previous approaches, opting for a strict alphabetical arrangement while still preserving significant insights into monster traits through the Monster Group list. This list offers not only a method to categorize various creatures but also elucidates the origins of these beings, such as the fact that Devils hail from the Nine Hells, whereas Demons come from the Abyssal Plane.

This latest iteration of the Manual has prompted numerous changes in how monsters are categorized, reshaping the very essence of gameplay. A noteworthy shift is the reclassification of Orcs from the “monster”category to a “species”classification, meaning they no longer appear within the group listings. Instead, their characteristics are applicable to various humanoid stat blocks, including Drow and others that previously fell under the broader “monster”umbrella.

12 Angels

Celestials With Lawful Good Alignment

Angels in D&D are formidable beings embodying Lawful Good alignment, equipped with radiant abilities and high stats in Charisma, Wisdom, and Intelligence. The 2025 Monster Manual delineates three distinct types: Devas, Planetars, and Solars. Players familiar with Baldur’s Gate 3 may recall Devas for their iconic maces that can be seamlessly added to player inventories. In contrast, the other two types, while less prevalent in mainstream media, are just as powerful, channeling divine power to vanquish unprepared foes.

11 Beholders

These One-Eyed (Many-Eyed) Monstrosities Are No Joke

The Beholder monster group encompasses several horrifying variants, including the classic Beholder, the Death Tyrant, the Spectator, and the dreaded Zombie Beholder. Spectators function as miniature Beholders, being more neutral in demeanor but still lethal if provoked. Engaging any member of the Beholder family should prompt caution, as they embody the essence of what to avoid in combat—unless players are feeling particularly audacious.

10 Demons

Hailing From The Abyssal Plane, Demons Are Chaotic Evil & Clever

Demons are often mistaken for their organized fiendish relatives, Devils. Instead, they embody chaos, driven by impulse rather than methodical planning. Their erratic behavior makes them especially formidable in combat situations, compelling parties to strategically dispatch them before their chaotic influences lead to widespread mayhem. Such confrontations are tailor-made challenges for adventurers seeking a formidable opponent.

9 Devils

These Fiends Hail From The Nine Hells

In stark contrast to Demons, Devils exhibit greater intelligence and a structured approach to their plots. Their ranks include various forms such as Barbed, Bearded, Horned, Ice, Bone, and Chain Devils, along with Imp and Lemure variants. Driven by ambition, they care deeply about their goals, often engaging in deals that can lead to powerful advantages for players willing to negotiate.

8 Dinosaurs

Real-Life Monsters With Fantastical Flavor

Despite originating from our world’s past, dinosaurs in D&D exhibit characteristics reminiscent of dragons, albeit stripped of many magical attributes. They fit seamlessly into the D&D universe, particularly as followers of Ubtao, the deity responsible for the creation of Mezro in Chult. Players adhering to traditional European fantasy themes might balk at their inclusion, yet the 2025 Monster Manual firmly establishes them as integral components of the Forgotten Realms. This edition also brings back the Archelon, a prehistoric aquatic turtle that was absent in prior versions.

7 Chromatic Dragons

Dragons Of All Colors Are Included Here

The Chromatic Dragons of the 2025 Monster Manual encompass a wide range of dragon varieties categorized by color, specifically Black, Blue, Green, Red, and White. These dragons, lacking the shimmering elegance of their Metallic counterparts, nonetheless reign as apex predators within the Forgotten Realms, necessitating careful approach. Typically hyperintelligent, these creatures are devoted followers of Tiamat, the malevolent mother of all dragons.2025 is also set to focus heavily on dragons with the upcoming release of Dragon Delves, an anthology dedicated to both Chromatic and Metallic dragons.

6 Metallic Dragons

Like Chromatic Dragons, But Nicer

Metallic Dragons, in contrast to their Chromatic peers, uphold a generally benevolent disposition, championing justice and morality within the Forgotten Realms. This group includes Brass, Bronze, Copper, Gold, and Silver Dragons. Driven by their allegiance to Bahamut, Tiamat’s brother, these dragons work to thwart chaos and evil in the realm. While predominantly altruistic, they can be formidable when provoked.

5 Genies

Made Of Energy And Natives Of The Elemental Planes

Genies represent powerful beings native to the Elemental Planes. The 2025 Monster Manual features several types, including Dao, Djinni, Efreeti, and Marid, which are a far cry from the whimsical portrayals in popular culture. Rather than merely embodying elemental magic, Genies result from the fusion of a living being’s soul with the elemental essence of their plane of origin. Recent highlights of Genies include their role in Quests from the Infinite Staircase, featuring a genie named Nafas as a guardian of the titular staircase.

4 Goblinoids

Goblins & Their Ilk

The Goblinoid category includes several creatures often considered entry-level foes by many adventuring parties. This classification encompasses Hobgoblins, Bugbears, and Goblins, typically portrayed as less intelligent and unsophisticated. However, it’s worth noting that standard Goblins have transitioned from a pure Evil classification to being recognized as Chaotic Neutral in the new edition—reflecting a shift in their portrayal. Ultimately, the DM’s execution will dictate how these creatures interact with players in-game.

3 Lycanthropes

All Sorts of Weres

Lycanthropes are humanoids afflicted by a curse or disease that induces transformation into a hybrid animal form, frequently without their control. In the 2025 Monster Manual, players will encounter Werebears, Wereboars, Wererats, Weretigers, and Werewolves, although virtually any animal can serve as a “were”form. Predatory creatures, such as wolves and tigers, are more likely to transmit lycanthropy since prey animals often do not survive to transmit the curse.

2 Titans

Not Gods, But Pretty Darn Close

The term “Titan”encompasses a broad classification of immense, god-like creatures featured in the 2025 edition. This category includes terrifying entities like the Blob of Annihilation, the Colossus, Elemental Cataclysm beings, Empyreans, and other iconic monsters like the Kraken and Tarrasque. These fearsome adversaries represent some of the highest challenges in D&D, often reserved for epic confrontations and potential Total Party Kill (TPK) scenarios.

1 Yugoloth

These Daemons View Cunning As Perfection

Yugoloths are neutral evil fiends originating from the Grey Wastes, characterized by a relentless pursuit of cunning as a means to gain power. This group includes formidable entities such as the Arcanoloth, Mezzoloth, Nycaloth, and Ultroloth. Not only do they prioritize self-interest, but they also manipulate others to achieve their ends, operating under their unique ethical guidelines.

The 2025 edition of the Monster Manual features over 500 diverse entities, of which these assorted groups provide only a glimpse into the vast array of encounters available for adventure. As DMs prepare to craft their campaigns, these classifications can serve as a springboard, sparking complex narratives around each creature. Furthermore, Wizards of the Coast continues to innovate with exciting new ideas, including playtesting of eight new subclasses, making both fresh and returning players rethink their strategies in the expansive realm of Dungeons & Dragons.

Source & Images