Dopplegangers and detect magic

Post/Author/DateTimePost
#1

ussMousetrap

Jun 28, 2015 18:51:57

 

 

Is the dopplegangers ability to shape shift considered magic?  And would detect magic be able to detect anyting when they are shapeshifted?  Looking at the monster manual and it really doesn't say if the ability is magical or not...

 

 

#2

iserith

Jun 28, 2015 19:31:45

It's up to the DM to decide. I would say that it is not magical.

#3

AaronOfBarbaria

Jun 28, 2015 19:52:02 		The ability doesn't say it is magic, but other abilities do say they are magic. That makes me think things are only intended to be treated as magic if they actually say they are magic.
#4

Razintarr

Jun 29, 2015 2:14:39

I agree it's up to the DM. I'd say the doppleganger would show a transmutation aura. The description of the shapechange power might not say anything about it being magic, but it's so far beyond what biology can do (chameleons, octopus) that it just doesn't feel like something the doppelganger can do without magic.

 

That, and I like the idea of the players going through a crowded ballroom with some sort of doppelganger-detector, trying to find truth behind the rumor that such a creature is hiding between the guests. Detect Magic would work great for that purpose, seeing you can put in a few red herrings with legitimate guests with magic items. 

 

#5

Lilika

Jun 29, 2015 17:02:07

Since both dopplegangers and detect magic are not new to dnd, I would look at previous editions for guidance on this issue.

#6

OoftaMeg

Jun 29, 2015 17:14:05

I would say that dopplegangers and other inherently magical creatures do not radiate magic.  There are many creatures in D&D that can only exist because of magic.  

 

Start down that path and everything from banshees to dragons to giant spiders are all magical.  Do you really want your PCs spamming detect magic all the time?

#7

sim-h

Jun 30, 2015 5:37:37

DM decision. Mine would be I'd say shapeshifting of any kind is a manipulation of magical essence or ki - the spell would indicate a faint aura about a doppleganger. Or a Wild Shaped druid. Or a magically summoned familiar.