How to Convert D&D 5e 2014 to 2024

There are two straightforward ways to make encounters from 2014 materials usable with the 2024 ruleset: doubling monsters and adding random encounters.

Doubling Monsters

The easiest solution is to simply double the number of monsters in an encounter. Most of our content falls into the 2x multiplier found in the 2014 rules and the removal of these multipliers is the most impacting change to encounter design, thus making this an easy solution.

However, this is not recommended for boss fights, as they typically include unique creatures.

Adding Random Encounters

All DM Lair adventures include a set of random encounters in the GM Notes section. Simply adding one random encounter of your choice to an encounter will closely align it with the 2024 rules. This option is the preferred option, as it works well for most encounters. You can also use this to make the dungeon feel more alive by carefully staging the random encounters so that they reinforce the prewritten fight or by using them in other clever ways!

Stat Block Conversion

Stat blocks are more art than they are science, so this is meant to be a very general overview of how to treat our monsters. For a much more precise look at 2024 CR, feel free to check out the Blog of Holding.

First Note

Monsters published by the DM Lair tend to be stronger than their officially published counterparts from the 2014 releases. For many of our monsters, the CR should be left as it currently is. You only need to worry about converting monsters that you think may be underwhelming in the power crept environment.

The Conversion

Tier 1 monsters (CR 4 and below) do not need any conversion. The math is mostly the same for them.

Tier 2 monsters (CR 5 to 10) should be treated as one CR less than the stat block lists, or they should be given a +1 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and DCs.

Tier 3 monsters (CR 11 to 16) should be treated as two CR less than the stat block lists, or they should be given a +3 bonus to attack rolls and DCs; and an extra damage die for damage rolls.

Tier 4 monsters (CR 17 and above) should be treated as three CR less than the stat block lists, or they should be given a +5 bonus to attack rolls and DCs; and two extra damage dice for damage rolls.

Hit points and AC need not be adjusted.

Other Mechanics

Since most core rules remain the same, few other conversions should prove necessary. When applicable, simply apply the updated rules to the game mechanic.