Overview[]
A bugbear is a tall and hulking humanoid distantly related to, but larger and stronger than, goblins and hobgoblins. Like many goblinoids, bugbears speak the Goblin language. They are one of the only goblinoids to be covered in fur.
Physical Description[]
Bugbears resemble hairy, feral goblins standing seven feet tall. They take their name from their noses and claws, which are similar to those of bears. Their claws are not long and sharp enough to be used as weapons, so bugbears often armor and arm themselves with a variety of purloined gear. Most often, this gear is second-rate and in poor repair.
Psychology[]
Bugbears, like other goblinoids, have a reputation for being dim-witted and brutish. This claim is not unfounded and like their kin bugbears have easily provoked tempers and are prone to fitful rages. Few bugbears overcome this and their culture's brutal nature. Bugbear heroes, though rare, are heard of and can acquire significant renown if successful. Often the motivation for this change of heart comes from the rewards earned from virtue, which in the long term are more pleasing than the short-lasting pleasures of evil.
Culture[]
Bugbears are often found in the company of other goblinoids, particularly goblins, since tribes made up mostly of hobgoblins and bugbears tend to be wiped out quickly by other races as a precaution. Some bugbears also operate independently, though tribes ruled by hobgoblins are better organized and less savage.This is in part because bugbears have little patience for diplomacy or negotiation, preferring violent solutions to conflicts unless obviously overpowered. In general, bugbears live a life based around survival and become rogues, though many also make excellent barbarians.
Notable Goblins[]
Notable Bugbear Individuals[]
Klarg, a power mad Bugbear who led an group of Goblins as part of the Cragmaws, before being killed by the party during the Lost Mine of Phandelver campaign.
Notable Bugbear Tribes[]
The Cragmaw Tribe of Goblins are bolstered by Bugbears.