Polymorph

  • Level & School
    4th-level transmutation
  • Casting Time
    Action
  • Range
    60 feet
  • Components
    V, S, M (a caterpillar cocoon)
  • Duration
    Concentration, up to 1 hour
  • Classes
    Bard, Druid, Sorcerer, Wizard

You attempt to transform a creature that you can see within range into a Beast. The target must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or shape-shift into Beast form for the duration. That form can be any Beast you choose that has a Challenge Rating equal to or less than the target's (or the target's level if it doesn't have a Challenge Rating). The target's game statistics are replaced by the stat block of the chosen Beast, but the target retains its alignment, personality, creature type, Hit Points, and Hit Point Dice.

The target gains a number of Temporary Hit Points equal to the Hit Points of the Beast form. The spell ends early on the target if it has no Temporary Hit Points left.

The target is limited in the actions it can perform by the anatomy of its new form, and it can't speak or cast spells.

The target's gear melds into the new form. The creature can't use or otherwise benefit from any of that equipment.

Polymorph 5e 2024 vs. 2014 edition differences

The 2024 version specifies the target retains its Hit Points and Hit Point Dice, whereas the 2014 version states it assumes the hit points of the new form and reverts to its original hit points upon ending. The 2024 version introduces Temporary Hit Points equal to the Beast form's HP, ending early if they are depleted; the 2014 version does not mention temporary HP. The 2024 version clarifies the target retains creature type and Hit Point Dice, which the 2014 version omits.