Banshee 5e | A Song of Sorrow and Fear

Today, we’re diving into the shadowy realm of one of Dungeons & Dragons’ most captivating and chilling creatures: the banshee.

With their mournful wails and tragic backstories, banshees are not merely foes to be vanquished; they are complex spirits burdened by sorrow and regret.

Once beautiful elves who wielded their allure for manipulation, these spectral beings now haunt the places of their demise, forever bound by the choices that led to their tragic fates.

In this article, we’ll explore the intricate lore surrounding banshees, delve into their abilities and tactics, and provide valuable tips for both players and DMs.

Whether you’re preparing to face one of these haunting spirits in your campaign or looking to enrich your storytelling, understanding the nuances of banshees can transform a simple encounter into a deeply engaging experience.

So gather your party, steel your hearts, and prepare to confront the wails of the banshee—if you dare!

What Are Banshees?

When the sun dips below the horizon and darkness blankets the land, a chilling presence emerges—enter the banshee, a spectral figure born from sorrow and vanity.

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons, banshees are the tragic remnants of female elves who once possessed great beauty but chose to wield it for manipulation and control rather than joy. Now, they wander the night as luminous, wispy forms, their features barely recognizable beneath a wild tangle of hair and tattered rags that flutter like shadows in the wind.

These forlorn spirits are not just mindless undead; they are bound by their pasts, cursed to relive every moment of their lives with perfect recall. This eternal torment amplifies their bitterness, transforming them into spiteful creatures that harbor deep resentment towards the living.

As a result, banshees are often found haunting the very places where they met their tragic ends, unable to venture more than five miles from their final resting spots. Their cries echo through the night, warning travelers of the sorrow that lies ahead.

Banshees embody the duality of beauty and horror. While they once captivated hearts with their allure, their vanity now manifests as a desperate longing for beautiful objects—fine jewelry, exquisite paintings, and elegant statues.

Yet, paradoxically, they cannot bear to see their own reflection. A single glimpse into a mirrored surface can send a banshee into a rage, reminding her of the decay that has consumed her mortal form.

Lore and History of Banshees

To truly grasp the essence of banshees, we must explore their rich lore, woven from threads of tragedy, betrayal, and unfulfilled desires.

In Dungeons & Dragons 5e, banshees are the tortured spirits of female elves who wielded their beauty as a weapon, choosing manipulation over joy. This tragic choice transforms them into spiteful undead, forever bound to the locations of their demise and reliving their past with painful clarity. Their haunting wails echo through the night, serving as chilling reminders of their sorrow.

In contrast, the folkloric banshee, particularly in Irish mythology, is often seen as a harbinger of death, appearing to foretell the demise of a loved one.

While both versions share themes of sorrow, the D&D banshee emphasizes the consequences of vanity and the corruption of beauty, focusing on her tragic backstory and emotional turmoil.

Banshees often die under distressing circumstances—unrequited love, betrayal, or a life cut short—which fuels their restless spirits and binds them to the mortal realm with unfinished business. They inhabit crumbling castles, desolate graveyards, and forgotten forests, locations steeped in history and mystery that invite exploration.

As players approach these eerie locales, they may uncover clues about the banshee’s life, allowing them to piece together her story and motivations.

This rich lore enhances the narrative and opens opportunities for role-playing and character development. Players can choose to confront the banshee with weapons drawn or seek to understand her plight, transforming a simple encounter into a memorable experience that resonates long after the adventure ends.

In the world of D&D, banshees are more than mere foes; they are tragic figures that remind us of the power of unresolved emotions and the impact of our choices.

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Banshee 5e Features and Abilities

When it comes to combat, banshees are anything but ordinary. These spectral foes wield a chilling array of abilities that can turn the tide of battle in a terrifying instant.

So, let’s take a closer look at what makes banshees such formidable opponents!

First and foremost, we have the Horrifying Visage. This ability allows the banshee to unleash a terrifying sight that can fill even the bravest adventurers’ hearts with fear.

When a character catches sight of her ghastly form, they must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute or until they manage to succeed on a save at the end of their turn.

This means they won’t be able to move closer to the Banshee and are also going to be making attack rolls and ability checks at disadvantage while she’s in their line of sight. This can very quickly disrupt the party’s cohesion as the Banshee swoops in to release her wrath.

With her fly speed of 40ft and ability to move through creatures and objects, the Banshee has very little trouble getting up close to her target. From there, she strikes out with her Corrupting Touch. Dealing 3d6+2 necrotic damage, this is absolutely not something you want to underestimate.

But most terrifying is the Banshee’s signature move: the Wail.

This heart-wrenching ability allows her to unleash a mournful cry that echoes through the battlefield once per day. All creatures within 30 feet of the Banshee (excluding undead and constructs) have to make a Constitution saving throw.

Those who make their saving throw will still be punished with 3d6 psychic damage from the Wail. It’s nothing to take lightly!

But those who fail their saving throw have it much, MUCH worse. Failing to save against the Banshee’s wail immediately reduces a character to zero hit points.

In the most unfortunate of circumstances, this can easily lead to a TPK (total party kill) and is why Banshees have the terrifying reputation that they do! This makes positioning crucial; you want to stay on your toes to avoid being caught in this devastating attack!

Tips for Players Encountering Banshees

So, you’ve found yourself face-to-ghastly-face with a banshee—what now?

Fear not, dear adventurers! While encounters with these spectral beings can be daunting, there are plenty of strategies to help you navigate the chilling experience and emerge victorious.

With the right preparation, strategic thinking, and a touch of creativity, you’ll be well-equipped to confront the wails of the banshee and emerge victorious—perhaps even with a new tale to tell around the campfire!

Here are some tips to keep in mind as you prepare to confront this haunting foe.

Prepare Your Mind (and Your Saving Throws)

First and foremost, be ready for the psychological warfare that a banshee can unleash.

Her Horrifying Visage can leave even the bravest soul trembling in fear. Before the encounter, consider bolstering your party’s resolve with spells like Bless or Heroism, which can enhance saving throws and help you resist her frightening effects.

A well-timed Calm Emotions can also go a long way in keeping your party grounded.

Keep Your Distance

Banshees are deadly up close, thanks to their Corrupting Touch ability.

Ranged attacks are your best friends here! Characters with bows, crossbows, or spellcasting abilities can deal damage from a safe distance while minimizing the risk of getting caught in her grasp.

Just be forewarned that Banshees have resistance against nonmagical attacks. That means she’ll only be taking half damage unless you’re using a magical weapon.

If you have a spellcaster in the party, consider using spells that can target her from afar, such as Eldritch Blast or Fire Bolt.

However, that also brings up an important point…

Know Your Spells

Certain spells can be particularly effective against banshees; however, be mindful of the Banshee’s resistance. She’s resistant to acid, fire, lightning, and thunder damage while also being totally immune to cold, necrotic, and poison damage.

Spells that deal radiant damage (like Guiding Bolt and Word of Radiance), force damage (like Eldritch Blast and Magic Missile), or psychic damage (like Vicious Mockery and Mind Sliver) are going to be your best friends here.

Additionally, spells that can mitigate fear effects, such as Protection from Evil and Good, can help keep your party standing strong in the face of her terrifying powers.

Don’t underestimate the importance of preparation—having your spell slots ready for the right moment can make all the difference!

Stay Mobile

Mobility is key when facing a banshee. If you find yourself in her line of sight, be prepared to move!

Use the environment to your advantage—take cover behind obstacles, utilize difficult terrain, and keep shifting positions to avoid being caught in her Wail.

If you can, coordinate with your teammates to create distractions, allowing some members to flank her while others provide ranged support.

Engage in Role-Playing

Remember, banshees are not just mindless monsters; they are tragic figures with poignant stories.

If your character has a background or experience that resonates with the banshee’s tale, you might consider engaging her in conversation. You might be able to uncover her motivations, offer her peace, or even negotiate a way to resolve her unfinished business.

This approach can lead to a unique and memorable encounter, transforming a potentially lethal confrontation into a moment of emotional depth.

However, use your judgment before trying to reason with a Banshee. While some might be open to conversation, others will have no problem using that opportunity to strike.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Lastly, don’t forget the power of teamwork!

Communicate with your party members about your strategies, and coordinate your actions to maximize your effectiveness. If someone goes down, your top priority is getting them back on their feet as quickly as possible.

Whether it’s flanking the banshee, providing cover for spellcasters, or using abilities to support each other, working together can turn the tide in your favor.

Tips for DMs Running a Banshee Encounter

Ah, the moment has arrived! You’re about to unleash a banshee upon your unsuspecting players, and you want to ensure the encounter is as thrilling and memorable as possible.

As a Dungeon Master, you have the power to create an atmosphere that not only challenges your players but also immerses them in the rich lore and emotional weight of this haunting creature.

Here are some tips to help you run a captivating banshee encounter that will leave your players talking long after the session ends.

Related: Running Horror in Your D&D Games

Set the Scene

Atmosphere is key when introducing a banshee.

Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture of the environment. Is the air thick with fog? Are the trees twisted and gnarled, their branches reaching out like skeletal fingers?

Perhaps the ground is littered with remnants of the banshee’s tragic past—broken toys, faded letters, or crumbling gravestones.

Incorporate sound effects, like distant wails or whispering winds, to heighten the tension and create a sense of foreboding.

The more immersive the setting, the more your players will feel the weight of the encounter.

An encounter with a Banshee should be dark and heavy with an inescapable feeling of fear. Painting a vivid picture of the scenario will help you fully capture the emotions that make a Banshee encounter so terrifying and memorable.

Weave in Lore

Banshees are absolutely steeped in rich backstory, so take the opportunity to incorporate elements of their lore into the encounter.

Consider dropping clues throughout the session that hint at the banshee’s tragic past—perhaps a half-burned journal found in an abandoned house or the ghostly echoes of her former life that players can hear.

This not only adds depth to the encounter but also gives players a chance to engage with the story on a more personal level.

Use Tactics Wisely

Banshees are cunning foes, so don’t hesitate to use their abilities strategically.

Early on, have her utilize Horrifying Visage to separate party members, creating chaos and fear. Because frightened characters won’t be able to move towards her (and will be at disadvantage to attack her), she can move tactically to herd them where she is able to deal the most damage.

Then, use her Wail at an opportune moment to catch players off-guard, especially when they’re clustered together near her. She’s got one use of her Wail a day, so she’s going to make sure she gets the best use out of it that she can.

Remember, the Banshee is not just a mindless monster; she’s a vengeful spirit with a purpose.

Consider her motivations and how she might react to the players’ actions. Will she try to negotiate, or will she unleash her fury?

Balance the Encounter

While banshees are formidable opponents, it’s essential to balance the encounter based on your players’ levels and abilities.

Banshees are easily capable of hitting WAY above their Challenge Rating. As I mentioned earlier, a single use of her Wail (and some very unfortunate saving throws by the party) could potentially be an immediate TPK.

If your party is relatively inexperienced, consider adding environmental factors to create a more dynamic encounter.

For example, I once had a party nearly get wiped by a Banshee they were fighting on a small bridge over a stream. Trying to hide beneath the bridge, the party’s Druid found the Banshee’s remains with an elegant locket around its neck. She then used this as a way to engage with the Banshee, creating a memorable RP moment and saving her party’s lives while also opening up a particularly fun plot hook for a future villain.

Conversely, if your players are seasoned veterans, don’t shy away from making the banshee a more challenging foe by giving her clever tactics or unique abilities that surprise them. Much like Specters, Banshees are not going to be shy about using their incorporeal movement to catch their victims off-guard.

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Encourage Role-Playing

Encourage your players to engage with the banshee beyond combat.

If they attempt to communicate with her, allow for moments of dialogue where they can learn more about her tragic past. This not only enriches the encounter but also opens up opportunities for role-playing and character development.

Players may choose to help the banshee find peace, leading to a unique resolution that could change the course of the adventure.

Create Consequences

Lastly, consider the aftermath of the encounter. What happens if the players defeat the banshee? Is her spirit finally at rest, or does her death unleash a new horror?

If they choose to help her, what rewards or consequences might arise from their actions?

These outcomes can lead to future plot hooks and deepen the players’ investment in the story.

Plot Hooks to Introduce a Banshee

Inspired to create a Banshee encounter in your own game?

Let’s come up with a few plot hooks to get you started. You can use these hooks as jumping off points to exercise your own creativity and craft an encounter that’s sure to terrify and excite your players!

Of course, feel free to also leave a comment with your own plot hook ideas for Banshee encounters!

The Weeping Widow of Whisperwood

In the village of Whisperwood, a once-vibrant community has fallen into despair.

Locals speak in hushed tones of a ghostly figure seen wandering the nearby forest, her mournful wails echoing through the trees at night.

The village elder approaches the party, pleading for their help. She reveals that the spirit is believed to be the widow of a nobleman who was betrayed and murdered by his closest allies.

The villagers are terrified, claiming her cries bring misfortune and death.

Now, the brave adventurers must venture into the haunted woods to confront the banshee, uncover the truth behind her tragic past, and find a way to bring her peace before her sorrow consumes the entire village.

The Cursed Portrait

In a quaint village known for its artistry, a renowned painter has mysteriously vanished, leaving behind an unfinished portrait of a stunning elven woman.

Since the disappearance, the townsfolk have reported hearing mournful wails echoing through the night.

The party is approached by the painter’s frantic apprentice, who believes the spirit of the elven woman in the painting is responsible. As the adventurers investigate, they discover that the woman is a banshee, cursed for her vanity and manipulation.

To lift the curse and free her spirit, the party must uncover the truth behind her tragic demise and confront the darkness that binds her to the portrait.

The Echoes of Betrayal

The party arrives in a desolate town where the air is thick with sorrow.

The townsfolk speak in hushed tones of a banshee that roams the ruins of an old castle nearby, a remnant of a once-great elven noble family. It is said that the banshee’s cries are the echoes of betrayal, as her family turned against her in a desperate bid for power.

As the adventurers investigate, they find clues that reveal the truth of her tragic fate and the dark legacy of her family.

To put her spirit to rest, the party must confront not only the banshee but also the lingering shadows of betrayal that haunt the castle, deciding whether to seek vengeance or redemption for the tortured soul.

FAQs – Banshee 5e

Conclusion – Banshee 5e

As we draw the curtain on our exploration of banshees in Dungeons & Dragons 5e, we hope you’ve gained a deeper appreciation for these hauntingly tragic figures.

Whether you’re a player gearing up for an encounter or a DM looking to weave a compelling narrative, understanding the lore, abilities, and emotional weight of banshees can transform a simple battle into an unforgettable experience.

Their stories remind us that behind every ghostly wail lies a tale of sorrow, and with the right approach, you can turn fear into empathy and conflict into resolution.

Now, we want to hear from you! Have you encountered a banshee in your campaigns? What strategies did you use, or how did you bring her story to life? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below—we love hearing from our fellow adventurers!

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