Zombie swarm

[aerys]

I'd like to try an actual swarm template for human zombies (even though they are medium sized). Here's what I came up with comparing other swarms and using the template.

Zombie Swarm (CR 4)
XP 1,200
NE Medium undead (swarm)
Init +0; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Perception +0
DEFENSE
AC 12, touch 10, flat-footed 12 (+2 natural)
hp 33 (6d8+6)
Fort +2, Ref +2, Will +5
DR 5/slashing; Immune undead traits
Defensive Abilities swarm traits
OFFENSE
Spd 30 ft.
Melee swarm (2d6 plus disease)
Space 10 ft.; Reach 0 ft. Special Attacks disease, distraction (DC 13)
STATISTICS
Str 18, Dex 10, Con —, Int —, Wis 10, Cha 10
Base Atk +4; CMB —; CMD —
Feats Toughness
Special Qualities staggered
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Staggered (Ex)
Zombies have poor reflexes and can only perform a single move action each round.

The 2d6 damage seems a bit brutal, but that's what's listed for 6 hit dice. And I'm wondering if I should give them a CMB or if again that would be too brutal. I guess it would work like an entangle.

I reworded Staggered to keep their movement slow. Out in the open they probably wouldn't last long, but I plan to pack them like sardines into a dungeon hallway.

It might work better to make two or three weaker swarms, but I'm curious what you all think. And do you think CR 4 is right or with the DR and 2D6 attack should this be higher?

 

[Thanael]

There's a mob template in DMG II. It's basically an adaptation of the Swarm creature type that you can apply to small or larger creatures.

This cheap product offers more detailed swarm rules...

 

[aerys]

Thanks, Thanael. I'll have to check out that supplement. Sounds like just what I'm looking for.

I haven't checked out mob rules yet, but it sounds like this combines several creatures into a larger creature. I'd like to keep the swarm ability to enter your square to attack so it feels more like you're being overwhelmed.

Although I wonder if there should be some chance of being attacked if you're standing next to it. Maybe some kind of weaker "splash" damage and/or threatening those squares for AoO's and concentration checks.

 

[frankthedm]

I haven't checked out mob rules yet, but it sounds like this combines several creatures into a larger creature.

http://www.enworld.org/forum/genera...does-mob-template-work-3-5-a.html#post4467782

The Mob Template makes the group a 30 HD, gargantuan, trampling, engulfing blob. It takes 50% more damage from area effects, but that’s no consolation to the fighter who has had his armor, shield, Cleave, Great cleave and Whirlwind attack negated since it is now counted as one creature that deals auto-damage.

 

[aerys]

Thanks for the link frank. This is one of the threads I checked out that turned me off the idea of using mob rules. I could see how this could be useful for a really high level party, but I'd like to be able to do this swarm at a lower level and have the feeling of being overwhelmed.

Is it possible to have a mob of say 6 HD of zombies? I think the part about Cleave not working is fine. That adds to the feeling of being overwhelmed. And I like that the mob can grapple.

I think I'm looking for some kind of combination that takes the best of the swarm and mob ideas.

 

[aerys]

Actually, thinking about the way grapple works, you can enter another person's square being medium sized. So maybe this zombie swarm/mob needs to succeed at a CMB check to enter their square. And the DC goes up if there are people in both squares you are entering. Maybe +2 per extra person?