Goliath Monk Build Guide

Goliath Monk Build Guide

The Goliath's imposing physique and Giant Ancestry synergize surprisingly well with the Monk's unarmored combat prowess.

3/10 Synergy Striker Role Hard Difficulty

Why Goliath Monk?

Choosing a Goliath for your Monk might seem unusual, but their traits offer unique benefits. Goliaths possess 'Giant Ancestry,' giving you a powerful ability that can boost your Monk's combat effectiveness, especially in close quarters. Their 'Powerful Build' and 'Large Form' traits mean you're naturally tougher and can carry more, which complements the Monk's focus on physical engagement. While a Monk primarily relies on Dexterity (DEX) and Wisdom (WIS) for their fighting and ki abilities, the Goliath’s innate strength (STR) can be useful for certain checks even with a lower STR score.

While not the absolute top-tier race for a Monk, the Goliath offers a distinct flavor and battlefield presence. You'll be a formidable force up close, leveraging your Monk abilities with the added resilience and unique advantages of your Goliath heritage. Remember, Goliaths lack Darkvision, so be prepared with light sources when exploring dark dungeons. This build shines in melee, with a decent average of 7.8 melee damage per round at level 5.

Recommended Ability Scores

Strength
12(+1)
Dexterity★
15(+2)
Constitution
13(+1)
Intelligence
10(+0)
Wisdom★
14(+2)
Charisma
8(-1)
HP (Lv1)
9
AC
12
Initiative
+2
Passive Per.
12
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Goliath Traits That Benefit Monk

Giant Ancestry

Giant Ancestry grants a supernatural ability that enhances the Monk's combat or utility.

Powerful Build

Enhanced size and carrying capacity complement the Monk's physical combat style.

Large Form

Enhanced size and carrying capacity complement the Monk's physical combat style.

Combat Effectiveness

Level HP Melee DPR Ranged DPR
Level 5 33 7.8 7.8
Level 11 69 7.15 7.15
Level 17 105 7.15 7.15

DPR = Damage Per Round (average, assuming standard combat conditions).

Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

  • ♦ Good armor class and initiative
  • ♦ Flexible build with room for customization

Weaknesses

  • ♦ Low Charisma limits social interactions
  • ♦ Limited ranged and magical options without multiclassing
  • ♦ No Darkvision — may need light sources in dungeons

Pro Tips

1

Use your Giant Ancestry ability to gain an edge in crucial melee encounters.

2

Leverage your Powerful Build to grapple opponents and control the battlefield.

3

Remember your lack of Darkvision; always bring a light source for dungeons.

4

Focus on your unarmored defense and movement to stay mobile in combat.

5

Use your bonus action for Flurry of Blows after attacking to maximize damage.

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Monk Subclass Builds

Explore specialized builds for each Monk subclass:

Goliath Warrior of Mercy Monk Support Goliath Warrior of Shadow Monk Striker Goliath Warrior of the Elements Monk Blaster Goliath Warrior of the Open Hand Monk Striker

Related Builds

Other Goliath Builds

Goliath Barbarian 10/10 Striker Goliath Fighter 6/10 Striker Goliath Paladin 5/10 Defender Goliath Bard 3/10 Support Goliath Cleric 3/10 Support Goliath Ranger 3/10 Striker

Other Monk Builds

Aasimar Monk 7/10 Striker Dragonborn Monk 7/10 Striker Tiefling Monk 6/10 Striker Dwarf Monk 5/10 Striker Halfling Monk 5/10 Striker Orc Monk 5/10 Striker

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Goliath a good race for Monk?
Goliath isn't the most optimal race for Monk, rating a 3/10 synergy. However, their 'Giant Ancestry' offers unique combat options. If you enjoy the flavor of a powerful, imposing Monk who throws punches and uses ki, the Goliath can be a fun and functional choice despite not having the highest synergy.
What stats should a Goliath Monk prioritize?
Focus on Dexterity (DEX) and Wisdom (WIS) for your Monk's core abilities. For your Goliath Monk, aim for a DEX of 15 and WIS of 14. A CON of 13 helps with survivability, and even a STR of 12 can be helpful for certain checks, leaving INT and CHA lower.
What party role does this build fill?
The Goliath Monk fills the Striker role. As a martial build, this combination excels in direct combat and physical challenges.

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