Unfortunately, at Mordenkainen's request, a panel of experts from Greyhawk Guild of Wizardry—which I'm assured is an esteemed center of learning and not at all an elaborate scam to swindle highborn rubes—has been granted editorial oversight of this work. As a result, I understand that some of my "less traditional" findings have been saddled with various rules, for the supposed "safe continuance of the mystical arts and, indeed, all life in the multiverse."—TASHA
More Tools & Optional Rules
A Dungeon Master employs many tools when preparing and running a D&D campaign. Tasha's Cauldron of Everything adds to your toolbox with guidance and optional rules for a variety of situations, plus a selection of ready-made puzzles that can be dropped into your campaign.
Environmental Hazards
Statues that sing, animals that whisper secrets, clouds that speak their mind—bring adventure settings to life with tables full of fantastical effects adventurer's might face while journeying through supernatural locales. You'll also find rules for a variety of magical and natural hazards—from eldritch storms on the high seas to mundane avalanches that are no less deadly.
Sidekicks
Whether it’s a goblin with a heart of gold or a much-needed translator, parties often adopt non-player characters. In this book you'll find rules for creating sidekicks with three simplified class options: Warrior, Spellcaster, or Expert. These classes can also be a great way to introduce new players who want to start with a simpler character.
Parleying with Monsters
Meeting a monster doesn't have to spark a fight. Often food or an offering can calm a hostile monster, and sapient creatures would often prefer to talk than to draw weapons. Whether it's flattering a beholder, mimicking a mating dance, or offering bubbly liquids to an ooze, this book includes tables full of creative ways players might get on a monster's good side.
Puzzles
Devious traps and multifaceted mysteries might be staples of fantasy adventures, but they're not the easiest challenges for a DM to present on the fly. This book presents a selection of puzzles designed to invite group participation and challenge adventurers of any stripe—from genius scholars to martial masters. Each puzzle includes player handouts, a difficulty rating, text you can read aloud to your players, tips for providing hints, and advice for customizing the puzzle to fit the needs of your adventure.