A Comprehensive Guide to Constructing an Unstoppable Goblinoid Army

The concept of a Goblin army in Dungeons and Dragons (DD) can be intriguing, but it's essential to understand the nuances and strategic considerations. In this guide, we will explore the distinct characteristics of Bugbears, Goblins, and Hobgoblins, and how to effectively construct a formidable Goblinoid army. This guide is not only for DD fans but also for DMs looking to enhance their campaign with a well-planned and strategic goblinoid force.

Understanding Goblinoids: Bugbears, Goblins, and Hobgoblins

In the world of Dungeons and Dragons, Goblinoids are a versatile and formidable race, comprising three distinct types: Bugbears, Goblins, and Hobgoblins. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different roles within an army. Understanding these differences is crucial for any DM looking to build a successful Goblinoid force.

Bugbears: Chaotic Evil, 5d8 hit dice

Bugbears are the chaotic evil members of the Goblinoid race. They are known for their unpredictable nature and ferocity in combat. Although they are only average melee combatants, Bugbear Chiefs have 10d8 hit dice, making them more formidable in one-on-one battles. Bugbears are not particularly suited for formation-based tactics, so they are better left as shock troops or raiders.

Goblins: Neutral Evil, 2d6 hit dice

Neutral evil in nature, Goblins are the smallest and weakest of the three types, with only 2d6 hit dice. However, Goblins have a natural talent for rapid population growth, often riding worgs and raising rats. Goblin bosses have 6d6 hit dice, slightly increasing their combat effectiveness. Their affinity with worgs and rats can be utilized to create specialized units such as scouts, burrowing units, and even cavalry.

Hobgoblins: Lawful Evil, 2d8 hit dice

Lawful evil Hobgoblins are the backbone of any Goblinoid force. They are slightly below average but competent melee combatants, with Hobgoblin Chiefs having 6d8 hit dice and Hobgoblin Warlords having 13d8 hit dice, making them unmatched in the Goblinoid world. In terms of organization, Hobgoblins excel, and they can form structured and disciplined formations, making them ideal for light infantry, heavy infantry, cavalry, archers, and siege weapon operators.

Strategic Formation and Role Allocation

When planning a Goblinoid army, it is crucial to play to each type's strengths. A well-planned Goblinoid force can be a daunting opponent on the battlefield. Here’s a guide on how to allocate roles and construct a cohesive army:

The Rise of Hobgoblin Warlord

The story of a Hobgoblin Warlord deciding to carve out a new kingdom for Goblinoid kind is both intriguing and strategic. This Warlord starts by challenging the bosses of local goblin tribes, compelling them to either join or face the consequences. This approach not only strengthens the Warlord’s position but also breaks up the tribes according to their combat skills and contributions.

Role Allocation: Specialized Units

Once the Warlord has a solid base, the next step is to allocate specific roles based on the strengths of each tribe:

Goblins: Goblins excel in specialized roles such as trap designers, rat and worg handlers, and siege weapon operators. They can be broken into teams that focus on building and maintaining alarms, traps, and siege engines, as well as managing worgs and giant rats for cavalry units.

Bugbears: Known for their ferocity and unpredictability, Bugbears are perfect for nighttime raids, pillaging, and looting. They can disrupt the enemy's supply lines and keep them preoccupied with defense and protection of citizens.

Hobgoblins: As the most organized and disciplined, Hobgoblins can serve in a wide range of roles, from light and heavy infantry, cavalry, archers, to siege engine operators. Each Hobgoblin will lead a group of Bugbears or Goblins, ensuring a clear chain of command and coordinated efforts.

Building the Compound Goblinoid Kingdom

Once the army is assembled and organized, the focus shifts to creating a cohesive and powerful kingdom. This involves:

Order of March

Establishing an order of march is crucial for efficient movement and combat. The army will need to move in a way that maximizes combat effectiveness. For example, Bugbears will march at night to cause chaos, while Goblins and Hobgoblins will follow, preparing for the actual battle.

Battle Strategy and Campaign Planning

The campaign to create a new goblinoid kingdom is more than just military strategy; it's also about political maneuvering and resource management. The Warlord will need to allocate resources to maintain the army, build and repair siege engines, and protect the kingdom from external threats.

By understanding the distinct traits and potential of each Goblinoid type, DMs can build a formidable and strategic Goblinoid army that adds depth and excitement to any Dungeons and Dragons campaign.