D&D Monster Spotlight: Androsphinx
If you can answer their riddle, complete their quest, or just not tick them off, Androsphinxes can go from monster to provider of feats.
First Edition
There are many kinds of Sphinxes in Dungeons and Dragons, but the Androsphinx is a male, especially powerful, and large version. Like most Sphinxes, they exclusively live in warm climates, but Androsphinxes have been known to shun the company of smarter, more neutrally aligned, and female Sphinxes. On top of their melee paw attacks and 6th level cleric spells, the Androphinx can emit a deafening roar three times per day which can be heard for several miles and causes fear unless successfully rolled against.
Second Edition
Half sphinx, half everyone’s uncle.
The paws of an Androsphinx can kill your average human man with just one swipe; luckily most D&D adventurers are not average people. They primarily use their 6th level spells for self healing and defense, rather than defense because they don’t need the offensive damage. Without the company of female Sphinxes…. or really any other Sphinxes at all, Androsphinxes live primarily in solitude with little to no apparent purpose.
Third Edition
The Gynosphinx.
Whereas previous Androphinxes feel like curmudgeons who hate thinking hard and company, in 3E they are generally good natured and clever. They’re gruff, temperamental, and can be savage opponents, but they also have noble hearts, appreciate small courtesies and can be a bit shy. Truly, a multifaceted monster. That said, a +18 melee attack and a roar that can cause adventurers to freeze in fear within five hundred feet makes the Androsphinx a tough monster to fight. Maybe offer them some small courtesies instead of engaging in a battle if you can help it.
Fourth Edition
In an incredible change of pattern, 4E goes from having multiple varieties of Sphinx to just one. This important guardian protects ancient tombs, temples, shrines, and oracles. Sometimes they will attempt to make an adventurer solve a riddle or puzzle or even recite a password, but it attacked unprovoked, the Sphinx will use their pounce, claws, and roar against the intruder. They are now created when angelic spirts are bound to the bodies of celestial lions, and with such a long life span they have been known to spend their time with the undead or constructs.
Fifth Edition
Though Androsphinxes don’t like to lie or deceive, they also don’t want to give away knowledge freely and will chose their words carefully to guard their secrets. Within the sphinx’s lair, time can flow differently, causing rapid aging, time shifts, and re-rolls. But should you meet their challenge, complete their quest, or answer their riddles, the Androphinx may reward you with a heroes’ feast. Is that enough of a reward to take on the Sphinx for? You tell me.
Have you encountered a Sphinx in any of your Dungeons and Dragons adventures? Was it an Androsphinx or one of the other varieties? Were you challenged to complete any quests or riddles, and more importantly did you succeed? Let us know in the comments!
Happy Adventuring!
