10. Description

Write as much or as little of a description of your monster as you like. Remember, the audience here is you, using the monster during play. Write your description with that in mind.

Think about how you'll describe the monster to your players during play. How big is it, what does it look like, how does it move, etc. Use similes and comparisons to familiar objects ("it's like a huge elk-centaur, with big old antlers on a skull head, exposed ribs and an extra pair of creepy little T-rex arms"). Maybe sketch something out, or find pictures online to show your players.

Tip: include at least one impression on a sense other than sight, like the skittering sound it makes, the smell of ozone left in its wake, the cold sweat they feel in its presence. Keep it concise and evocative. Limit yourself to three such impressions at most.

Other things that you might include in the description:

• How many there are
• Where they are found
• What they are likely to be doing when the PCs encounter them
• Social structures and relationships
• Backstory and history

Many monsters are also NPCs; if they'll be talking to the PCs, consider coming up with a memorable, distinctive way to embody them at the table (see Embodiment).

I think a bit about how I'll describe the Almtakers and jot down these notes:

• * 12 ft tall, humanoid, skin like wood. Tree-trunk forearms, goat legs, antlers. No mouth; three glowing white eyes.
• * Move like gorillas, or on crutches… plant their big forearms and swing legs forward. Creaking wood sound.
• * Weird, dreamlike presence. "Wasn't it just over there?"
• * "Voice:" quiet, breathy. Repeat every few words, like an echo.