Animated objects are some of the most whimsical creatures you can use in combat inDungeons & Dragons. From suits of armor to animated braziers, these objects can spring to life through the use of magic, and can be wielded by players and Dungeon Masters alike.

But, what’s the best way to use animated objects? If you’re a player, you’ll of course have to look into the Animate Objects spell. As a Dungeon Master, using these creatures in combat can prove a bit more varied. Whatever your role at the table, here’s everything you need to know about using animated objects.

An animated brazier with a mouth and legs in Dungeons & Dragons.

What Are Animated Objects?

In Dungeons & Dragons,animated objects are any household item that’s sprung to life through the use of magic. These items can be used in combat, to perform chores, or any number of tasks.

Some examples of animated objects include:

The above creatures arethe four main animated objects you’re able to find in the 2025 Monster Manual. They each have their own stat blocks and abilities you can use for combat.

How To Use Animated Objects As A DM

The main way you’ll likely end up using animated objects is for combat encounters, as these creatures are great for low-level encounters with mid-size parties.

However, while animated objects are great for combat,you’re able to also use magically enchanted objects in roleplay, or to establish tone and style.

A mimic, or a fake treasure chest in Dungeons & Dragons.

For example, players entering a magical shop might discover an animated broom sweeping up the store, but not necessarily poised to attack.

How To Homebrew An Animated Object

Since the 2025 Monster Manual only has four animated object stat blocks available,you can homebrew your own animated object stat blockto use in a fight.

Details

Select An Object

First, you’ll want topick a household objectthat you want to animate. It should be something you could typically find in the environment your players are in.

For example, if the party is in a tavern,consider animating objects like tankards, kegs, chairs, tables, glassware, and more.

An artisan’s workshop in Dungeons & Dragons.

Choose Method Of Animation

The 2025 Monster Manual suggests that DMsdecide the method of magic used to animate an objectfor flavor.

This is also helpful if you want to use animated objects to beef up a boss fight.Perhaps the archmage the party needs to fight is the source of the object’s animation, and therefore needs to be defeated to defeat the object.

A woman in a colorful skirt and blouse casts a spell using a magic wand in Dungeons & Dragons.

Create Stat Block

From there, you’ll need tocreate a stat block, including HP, AC, Speed, and more.

To create a stat block for an animated object,consult the 2025 Monster Manual.Most animated objects will function similarly to one another, and aren’t going to be that strong, sopick HP, AC, and features based on other animated object stat blocks.

When it comes to homebrewingstat blocks,basing new stats off of pre-existing stat blocks is always helpful.

But, that doesn’t mean you can’t chart your own course and do something entirely different as a DM. Justmake sure the encounter is balanced.

If you’re not sure what to choose for method of animation,you may consult the 2025 Monster Manual, which has the following table to roll on for animated object catalysts.

1d10

The Object Was Animated By…

1

A Celestial or Fiend using the object to protect or torment a mortal.

2

A combination of magic and technology, such as alchemy or alien science.

3

4

Fey as part of their games or wiles.

5

Happenstance, with the item gaining a semblance of life after a hundred years of use.

6

A magic-user in need of a guardian or servant.

7

8

A spirit possessing the object.

9

Wild magic, a spell that went awry, or a chaotic Artifact.

10

The will of a powerful psychic being.

How To Use Animated Objects As A Player

Players have access to animated objectsmuch in the same way their Dungeon Master does. However,you’ll need to be a relatively high-level spellcasterto do this.

Here’s a breakdown of the Animate Objects spell, which you’ll needto have prepared.

Duration

Concentration, up to 1 minute

When you cast Animate Objects, you can choose a number of nonmagical objects equal to your spellcasting ability modifierthat aren’t being worn, carried, or fixed to a surface, and aren’t gargantuan to animate.

From there,the animated objects are under your control and share your initiative countin combat.You can use your bonus action to command any objectcreated with this spell within 500 feet.

You can also have the creature take no action, in which case it automatically takes the Dodge action without you needing to communicate that command.

Each animated object uses the below stat block, which is separate from the stat blocks availablein the 2025 Monster Manual.

For more details regarding actions, languages, immunities, and resistances, consult the Animate Objects spell description.

15

Speed

30 feet

Remember, while most of the time you’ll want to use this spell in combat,you may also use Animate Objects to create distractions, scout ahead, or intimidate NPCswith your magical prowess.