Animated objects are a type of construct, which are creatures made of inorganic material that are animated by magic or other means. Animated objects can range from tiny to huge in size, and can take the form of any mundane or exotic object, such as furniture, weapons, armor, statues, or even books. Animated objects are usually loyal to their creator or controller, and can perform simple tasks or fight on their behalf. However, some animated objects may have a degree of intelligence or free will, and may act independently or even rebel against their master. Animated objects are a fascinating and versatile aspect of the D&D multiverse, and can provide many opportunities for adventure and creativity. In this guide, we will explore some of the ways to create and control animated objects, as well as some of the challenges and benefits of doing so.
Animated Book
Animated Candle
Animated Doll
Methods to Create Animated Objects
There are many ways to create animated objects in the D&D multiverse, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common or notable methods:
- Using the Animate Objects spell: This is the most straightforward and accessible method to create animated objects. The Animate Objects spell is a 5th-level transmutation spell that can animate up to ten nonmagical objects within range for the duration of the spell. The spell can be cast by various classes, such as bards, sorcerers, wizards, and artificers. The animated objects obey the caster’s verbal commands, and can be used for various purposes, such as combat, exploration, or entertainment. The spell has some limitations, such as the size and number of the objects, the concentration requirement, and the short duration. However, it is still a very versatile and useful spell that can be adapted to many situations.
- Using a powerful curse: Sometimes, a powerful curse can bind the soul of a living being to an object, creating an animated object that is usually tormented and hostile. This can happen as a result of a malicious spell, a vengeful spirit, or a dark ritual. For example, in the Curse of Strahd adventure module, there is an animated broom that attacks anyone who tries to enter a certain room. The broom is actually the soul of a maid who was killed by Strahd’s vampire spawn. Another example is in the Tomb of Annihilation adventure module, where there is an animated shield that contains the soul of a paladin who was cursed by Acererak. These animated objects are usually very difficult to destroy or free from their curse, and may require special methods or items to do so.
- Using powerful and ancient artifacts: Some powerful and ancient artifacts that tend to control and drain their owner often leave behind an empty shell of their body and confine as a collateral damage the soul of the owner into an object. This can happen when the artifact has a strong will or intelligence of its own, and seeks to dominate or consume its wielder. For example, in the Dungeon Master’s Guide, there is an artifact called the Eye of Vecna, which is the severed eye of the evil god Vecna. The Eye grants its user various powers, but also corrupts and enslaves them. If the user tries to remove the Eye, they die instantly, and their soul is trapped in a random object within 30 feet of them. The object then becomes animated by their soul, and tries to reunite with the Eye.
- Using powerful spells that mess with the soul and the body: Some powerful spells that mess with the soul and the body of a target may cause unexpected collateral effects. This can happen when the spell is cast incorrectly, resisted by the target, or interfered by external factors. For example, in the Player’s Handbook, there is a spell called Magic Jar, which allows the caster to transfer their soul into an object and possess other creatures. However, if the object containing their soul is destroyed, they die unless they can return to their body within 10 minutes. If their body is also destroyed or occupied by another soul, they may end up trapped in another object nearby. Another example is in the Monster Manual, where there is a creature called a Flameskull, which is an animated skull of a dead wizard that was created by a necromantic ritual. The Flameskull retains some of its former abilities and memories, but also serves its creator or whoever controls it. The Flameskull can be destroyed by physical damage, but it reforms after an hour unless it is sprinkled with holy water or subjected to a dispel magic or remove curse spell.