4.5 out of 5 stars

Released on Monday (while I was traveling) the playtest article for MM3 introduces us to the catastrophic dragons (one of the four types of dragons that exist in 4e).  In particular, we get to see the current state of development on one catastrophic dragon: the volcanic dragon.

Catastrophic dragons are embodiments of primordial forces and thus are physical manifestations of natural disasters.  In the case of the volcanic dragon, that natural disaster is (obviously enough) the erupting volcano.  As a result, fire and lava play prominent features in any encounter that involves one of these dragons.

In a manner similar to the MM‘s presentation, four versions of the volcanic dragon are presented (Young, Adule, Elder, and Ancient).  Unlike the MM, however, all four are Elites, not Solos.  At the same time, however, the power selection that the volcanic dragons have is very similar to what the MM dragons have in terms of number and frequency.  Given the desired direction for solos (mentioned in the D&D Podcast on the Monster Manual 2) this makes sense, as the power selection of dragons in general feels far more like those of an elite than a solo (as they are generally lacking in immediate or opportunity action attacks).

The one thing that I noticed fairly quickly about the catastrophic dragons is that the signature power of dragons, the breath weapon, is completely lacking.  Instead they have a combination of an aura, a power which modifies their aura, and a power which the dragon can use only when the aura has been sufficiently modified.  While only the power has the word “catastrophe” in it’s name, this three ability combination can be dubbed the “catastrophe power” of the dragon and is the mechanic about which the designers are most interested in receiving feedback.  Without any chance to see it in action, I must say that I like the concept and think it makes for quite the interesting encounter.  The fact that dragon must forgo its normal attacks to initiate the catastrophe (which doesn’t pay off for 2 rounds) however means that a volcanic dragon which has become pinned down is unlikely to use this signature power.  I’d like it better if the action intensive portion of the catastrophe was tied its ending rather than its beginning.  As I said, however, that is a purely theoretical opinion.

If you like experimenting with new mechanics, I highly suggest taking a look at the volcanic dragon and trying it out on your players.