Are you thinking about playing a character inspired by Lee Sin, Avatar Aang, or Rock Lee in your next D&D game? If you’re looking for a class that’s quick, agile, yet a master of martial arts, then you’ll love the Monk.

Also, if you’ve never tried playing as a Halfling, this is your chance. They’re naturally cheerful, curious, calm, and contented with simple pleasures. Think of the hobbits from the Lord of the Rings series.

Now, picture this: a hobbit who is a master of martial arts. Keep reading to learn how to create and play your version of it.

The Halfling race AND the Monk class can be found in the Player’s Handbook. Click here to pick up your own copy of The Player’s Handbook!

How to Make a Halfing Monk

Monks are masters of their bodies, which means they possess great athleticism. Thus, Dexterity should be your highest ability score and Wisdom second.

Next, decide what Halfling subrace you want to play as. In the Player’s Handbook, you can choose between the Lightfoot Halfling and Stout Halfling. If you want to be a little more Charismatic and stealthy, pick the former. If you want to be more resilient, pick the latter.

You must also decide on a Monk subclass. The Monk subclasses or monastic traditions include:

• Way of the Open Hand
• Way of Shadow
• Way of the Four Elements

Each subclass has its specializations. Open Hand Monks are straightforward subclasses to use, making them perfect for new players. Shadow Monks are more akin to traditional ninjas or spies. Monks practicing the Way of the Four Elements learn how to cast elemental spells and learn elemental disciplines.

How to Play a Halfing Monk

Because of the class’s Unarmoured Defense and Unarmored Movement abilities, Monks are swift. Since Monks use their fists or melee weapons, you must often stick to the frontline. Use your Slow Fall to reduce any fall damage you take. This is useful if you like to run up walls or jump from heights onto the battle.

The use of Ki makes them great hand-to-hand combatants. You needn’t worry about hurting yourself because your Ki empowers your fists and allows you to use unique abilities. You also have superior reaction speed. You can deflect or catch missiles by hand. 

Don’t forget to use subclass-specific abilities during combat. For example, the Open Hand technique lets you attack with an enhanced Flurry of Blows. Shadow Monks can use their Ki points to cast silence, pass without trace, or darkness. 

How to Roleplay as a Halfing Monk

When you’re roleplaying, take into account all the factors that will affect your character’s personality, goals, and outlook. For example, your background can explain why you aim for the goals you have. You can also pick from the personality traits listed in the Player’s Handbook and modify some of them to suit your roleplaying.

Your Halfling Monk doesn’t need to be an agent of peace and Zen. You can be impulsive and brash. You can even use the “drunken master” trope to define your Monk. With that said, feel free to break expectations and stereotypes, like Kung Fu Panda.