Dungeons & Dragons Hollowgast Miniature

A Hollowgast is a unique and terrifying creature in Dungeons & Dragons, particularly associated with the horror-themed campaign settings like *Curse of Strahd* or *Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft*. These entities are essentially undead beings, former mortals who have become shells of their former selves, driven by an insatiable hunger for the life force of the living. Hollowgasts are often depicted as pale, emaciated figures, with sunken features and hollow eyes that exude an aura of despair and dread.

When a creature dies in a place steeped in sorrow or malevolence, its spirit can become trapped in a state of torment, transforming into a Hollowgast. These beings are often characterized by their ethereal appearance and ghostly movements, allowing them to phase through solid objects and make surprise attacks against unsuspecting victims. Their attacks typically involve draining the life energy from their prey, leaving them weakened or even dead. 

In terms of gameplay, Hollowgasts are often used as formidable foes for adventurers, possessing abilities that allow them to manipulate shadows and invoke fear. They may also have spells or abilities that align with their dark nature, such as necromancy or illusion spells that further enhance their terrifying presence. 

Encountering a Hollowgast can serve as a chilling reminder of the consequences of death and despair, and they can be used to deepen the atmosphere of horror in a campaign. Their tragic origins add layers to their encounters, offering opportunities for storytelling and character development, as players may grapple with the moral implications of fighting a creature that was once a living person.