Dungeons & Dragons Living Shield Miniature

In Dungeons & Dragons, a Living Shield is a type of creature or magical construct that serves primarily as a defensive barrier, protecting its allies from harm. Often employed by spellcasters or powerful beings, Living Shields are typically animated by magic or inherent abilities, allowing them to actively engage in combat while providing cover to those they protect. They can take various forms, such as animated suits of armor, large creatures, or even enchanted objects. 

The concept of a Living Shield often revolves around the ability to absorb damage on behalf of others, making them valuable in scenarios where the protection of vulnerable party members is crucial. Some Living Shields may possess special abilities, such as reflecting damage back to attackers, enhancing the defenses of nearby allies, or even having regenerative qualities that allow them to recover from injuries during battle.

Living Shields can be created through spells like *Animate Objects*, *Summon Greater Demon*, or unique magical effects associated with specific campaigns or characters. Their presence in a combat scenario can alter the dynamics of a battle, providing strategic advantages and enabling more aggressive tactics from their allies. 

While not commonly detailed in the core rulebooks, the concept of a Living Shield can be incorporated into various homebrew campaigns, allowing Dungeon Masters to tailor their abilities and characteristics to fit the narrative. This flexibility encourages creativity and enhances gameplay by offering unique defensive options that can surprise opponents and foster teamwork among players. Overall, Living Shields add depth to combat mechanics, showcasing the diverse and imaginative possibilities within the Dungeons & Dragons universe.