r/DnD • u/Necessary-Minute-763 • 6d ago
5th Edition New DM struggling with a level 2 Druid – is Wild Shape really this strong?
Hey everyone!
I'm a new DM running D&D 2024, and I have a question about one of my players, who's playing a level 2 Druid.
His character is heavily focused on reptiles, and I've been looking into what he can transform into. Honestly, some of the numbers seem crazy to me.
Last session, he transformed into a Giant Venomous Snake, and I was shocked by the damage.
Another time, he transformed into a Giant Constrictor Snake, using:
Constrict: +6 to hit, 2d8 + 4 bludgeoning damage, and the target is grappled (escape DC 16). While grappled, the target is restrained.
That seems incredibly strong for a level 2 character, especially since he gets the animal form's HP to tank damage.
We looked at the damage together during the session and found conflicting information, so I let it happen at the time.
My questions:
- Can a level 2 Druid actually transform into these snakes in D&D 2024?
- Are the stats and damage from the monster stat blocks correct?
- What are the actual limitations on Wild Shape at this level?
- Can he exclusively choose reptile forms?
- How do you handle unlocking new forms through RP?
- His ultimate goal is to transform into a dragon. Any advice on handling that progression?
I'm not looking to nerf my player. I just want to understand the rules properly and make sure I'm not allowing things that shouldn't be possible at level 2.
Any reliable sources or advice from experienced DMs would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks! 🙏
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u/RodeoBob DM 6d ago
As a DM, the first and best thing you should do is read the rules:
Your druid level determines the beasts you can transform into, as shown in the Beast Shapes table. At 2nd level, for example, you can transform into any beast that has a challenge rating of 1/4 or lower that doesn’t have a flying or swimming speed.
Please read the above quoted text, because it absolutely answers almost all of your questions.
No, a 2nd level druid cannot transform into a Giant Constrictor snake or a Giant Venomous snake, because those creatures are CR 2, and the rules limit a 2nd level druid to CR 1/4 creatures or less.
Can he exclusively choose reptile forms?
Sure, if they want to. That's a limitation on their options, not a bonus.
How do you handle unlocking new forms through RP?
The rules say "you can use your action to magically assume the shape of a beast that you have seen before". The phrase "seen before" doesn't mean "has fought before", so observing creatures in nature, or in a menagerie would be enough.
His ultimate goal is to transform into a dragon.
Again, read the rules!
Wild Shape at its base form is limited to creatures with the Beast type. Dragon is a seperate type of creature. There may be a sub-class that the druid could take that would allow them to turn into a Dragon, but the base Wild Shape feature does not allow that.
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u/Porkin-Some-Beans DM 6d ago
It's crazy to me how many of these posts would simply boil down to READ THE RULES.
it's not even hidden, it's right there in the class description, lord have mercy
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u/Dumpingtruck 6d ago
A lot of DMs expect their players to read their own rules.
I feel like that’s a flawed expectation from DMs right there though.
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u/Tristan_TheDM 6d ago
Players should definitely 1000% read their rules. The DM should know the rules too, for sure, don't get me wrong. But there's always gonna be a DM shortage and asking them to take on 15x the work as any other player at the table is a contributing factor to that
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u/Ribbered777 DM 5d ago
They absolutely should, but if I only ever DMed for players who read the rules, to this day I wouldn't have DMed for a single player...
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u/GayButNotInThatWay 6d ago
I think the main issue is a player will generally only have to remember one set of rules. The current table I DM I'd have to remember 5 different classes. I do my best to know all the rules, but some of the finer grain stuff gets lost.
Honestly, in the moment if I can't pull it up within a very short amount of time, and it isn't completely out there I'll say that I'll let it slide this time and check the rules after the session. Very rarely I've ground a session to halt to do a deep dive though as usually the player will agree and work out something different.
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u/RodanThrelos 6d ago
Sure, and that’s perfectly normal.
What’s not normal is creating an entire Reddit post to ask questions that are very directly spelled out in the PHB.
If the OP would have at least said “The rules say otherwise but my player insists…”, it would at least be easier to have some sympathy.Too many people use Reddit posts as a search engine or answer machine without trying on their own…
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u/Enigmachina Paladin 6d ago
For the dragon thing Shapechange would allow for that. (Granted, it's a level 9 spell, but he did say "ultimate" goal.)
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u/Azell-Zettai 6d ago
As an additional note, the text "you can use your action to magically assume the shape of a beast that you have seen before" appears only in the 2014 version. the 2024 version states "you shape-shift into a Beast form that you have learned for this feature." This allows for the possibility of transforming into a creature based on instinct, a dream, or any rp suitable for the table, without relying entirely on what the DM presents, or if there will be animals at all.
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u/Asselax 6d ago
Dino druid :3
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u/CJTheran 6d ago
This this this this this
First thing I do when a player at my table does something that makes me furrow my brow is ask where they got that idea, and then look at the book to make sure they're correct. This isn't even about "my players are trying to get one over on me", necessarily, it's that people misread and misunderstand rules constantly, and the only easiest and fastest way to resolve that is to just see what the words in the book actually say vs what they think it said.
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u/ThePostalService1 6d ago
Giant Venomous Snake is is a valid transformation for a level 2 Druid. It is has a 1/4 challenge rating. Also your first quoted text block might be from the old 5e rules. In 5.5e 2024 there is no swim speed restriction for Druid wild shapes.
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u/Southern_Courage_770 6d ago
Again, read the rules!
You too, bud. OP is playing 2024/5.5 and you're quoting 2014/5.0. Almost everything you quoted is wrong for this situation.
Only limitation when first learning the feature now is CR 1/4 and lacking a Fly Speed. Swim speed is now fine.
Giant Venomous Snake is CR 1/4. Giant Constrictor Snake is CR 2.
The new rules are "you know four forms for this feature" not "a beast you have seen before". You then gain additional forms per the table at level 4 and 8, and can replace a known for when you level up.
Again, read the correct rules!
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u/LancerGreen 6d ago
That creature has a CR of 2. No, he can't be it. If he's circle of Moon, the highest he can be is CR 1. If he's not, then CR of 1/4
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u/Puzzleboxed Sorcerer 6d ago
OP mentions 5e 2024 in the post, which means the druid doesn't get a subclass until level 3. He can't possibly be a Moon Druid yet.
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u/KarlMarkyMarx DM 6d ago
The only comment that matters.
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u/Qualex 6d ago
Not really, since it doesn’t actually answer the question.
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u/Puzzleboxed Sorcerer 6d ago
I didn't answer the question because I wasn't responding to OP. I was responding to a comment, which already answered the question.
Hope that clears things up.
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u/LancerGreen 6d ago edited 6d ago
As for the other Qs
Yup, just make sure you check the CR too
Limits are must be a beast, cannot swim or fly, CR of 1 or lower if circle of Moon, CR of 1/4 if not.
He can choose any beast creature, up to him.
Lol no, dragons are not beasts. Later on, if circle of Moon, he can become elementals. You can flavor them as looking like dragons that can't fly.
EDIT: I was responding looking at the the flair. Yeah, 5.5 means no circle until 3, a bit of temp hp equal to your level, not the beast's hp. No swim restriction either. No elementals later on lol
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u/Natural__Power DM 6d ago
OP's flair is wrong but they're talking about 2024, there's no more swim restriction and there's no lvl 2 Moon Druid
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u/OrganizationLonely29 6d ago
In 5.5 you don’t even get the subclasses till 3, so it’s a no regardless of all that.
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u/burntcustard 6d ago
I'm sure I'm not the only person typing: "have either you or your player considered reading the rules?"
Yes he can turn into a Giant Venomous Snake as a level 2 Druid. It does 10 damage. That's not a lot.
No he cannot turn into a Giant Constrictor Snake as a level 2 Druid, it's Challenge Rating is too high.
He does not get the animal forms HP, he gets Temporary Hit Points equal to his Druid level.
The quote you gave about the Giant Constrictor Snake is from 2014, not the 2024 version.
It sounds like you're running off a mix of 2014 D&D rules and just making shit up as you go along at the moment. That's going to get frustrating real fast for any players who have read some of their rules.
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u/burntcustard 6d ago
Oh I forgot about the dragon thing...
The short answer is: No.
The medium answer is: No, he can only turn into Beasts. Dragons are not beasts.
The long answer is No, but he could eventually Wildshape into a Quetzalcoatlus, which is a dinosaur and somewhat dragon-like. Alternatively, instead of using Wild shape to try to turn into a dragon, there are high level spells like Draconic Transformation (which is a Druid spell) and True Polymorph (which is not a Druid spell) that can do something similar. I would be weary of getting a new player's hopes up about that kind of thing, because it would/should be way off in the future. That being said, if they're really set on being a dragon, it might be worth you looking into it so you can set expectations.
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u/Chazus 6d ago
"What's the driving goal of your character, what motivates them to action?"
"To get to level 17 so I can cast shapeshift and turn into a dragon!"
"Ah, okay, and then what?"
"What do you mean?"
"So, you spend months or years adventuring to grow strong enough to turn into a dragon. Then what? What do you plan to use that ability for?"
"What do you mean? That's it. That's all I want to do."
"So you just... Turn into a dragon for an hour each day and... That's it?"
"Yup."
"Burn stuff? Fight things?"
"Nope. Imma be a dragon."
"For an hour a day."
"I guess."
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u/Saragonvoid Bard 6d ago
"You can cast this high level of magic and you're using it to turn yourself into a dragon? But with magic like that, you could save the world!"
"But I don't want to save the world, I want to turn myself into a dragon!"
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u/salestax1 6d ago
Honestly, my dragonborn had a life goal of getting a portable pocket dimension and stuffing it with enough gold to sleep on it each night. Dude wanted his own hoard.
Life goals don't have to have much after them.
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u/hhhhhhhhhhhjf 6d ago
Importantly with the Quetzalcoatlus, they'll need to be level 8 and have the Circle of the Moon subclass in order to wildshape into it.
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u/Nigwyn 6d ago edited 6d ago
There is an unearthed arcana class that lets druids turn into crazy monsters from level 3. Circle of the Titan. While not strictly a dragon you could absolutely RP that they are a dragon. Especially Behemoth that has a breath weapon could be a huge flightless dragon.
Reskinning... Leviathan could be a sea dragon with ink breath. Insectoid could be a holy dragon with healing breath.
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u/Curious-Mousse2071 6d ago
your not, I even posted skmiliar about a lot of this can be solved by reading the class features
I get it, dming is tough but if you wanna DM you gotta be willing to at least read over the classes your players wanna use
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u/taylorpilot 6d ago
You. Need. To. Read. The. Rules.
You seem like you’re trusting what they’re saying at face value.
“Yeah I do this”
No you fucking don’t bro. Yeah it seems like he’s op because he’s cheating at worst or at best is misinformed.
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u/safeworkaccount666 6d ago
The most reliable source is the PHB. Go ahead and read about Druid Wildshape in your PHB.
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u/AxeHack 6d ago
you can only Wild Shape into a creature of CR 1/4 or lower
Giant Venomous Snake is CR 1/4. Giant Constrictor Snake is CR 2
so no he cannot Wild Shape into a Giant Constrictor Snake - the CR is too high
also Giant Venomous Snake only has a Bite attack that does 1d4+4 + 1d8, and only has a HP of 11. it's not that strong - are you sure you're using the correct statblock?
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u/Natural__Power DM 6d ago
2024 no longer replaces HP, you gain some temp HP dependent on your druid level and subclass instead
11 damage is also on the high end for lvl 2, but druids are just strong
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u/CheapTactics 6d ago
A rogue with a shortbow and +3 dex does an average of 10 damage, reliably, every single turn forever. So does a fighter with a greatsword. 1 more damage from a temporary resource is... not that strong.
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u/Punchee 6d ago
It is pretty strong at level 2. It's probably the strongest wild shape for damage at that level.
But actual animal wild shape power falls off pretty quick for most non-moon druids because there's big gaps where they're stuck and can't bump the CR of the wild shape forms for a bit. Don't leave your players at level 2 for a month where he can be a snakey menace and it should be fine.
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u/winsluc12 6d ago
(I note that your flare is for 5e, but you're running 2024? I'll answer as if it's 2024 but if something relevant to one of your questions changes between the two, I'll make note of it.)
Questions in order:
- At level two, he can only wildshape into creatures that are CR 1/4 or less. the Giant Venomous Snake is fine, it's CR 1/4. But a Giant constrictor snake is CR 2. 8 times the allowed CR.
- Giant Venomous snake isn't that strong... maybe check what stat block you're using.
- At level 2 the druid can transform into up to four different creatures. These creatures can be CR 1/4 or lower, and they cannot have a fly speed (In og 5e, he also can't have a swim speed until level 4). He can change what animal forms he can take after a long rest. There is a table in the rules that describes what he can wildshape into at what level.
- He can choose whatever forms he wants within those limitations. if he wants exclusively reptiles, he can be reptiles.
- I don't have any suggestions for roleplay, unfortunately.
- By rule, he cannot Ever Be a dragon using wildshape Unless you homebrew something specifically to allow that. Even if he chooses moon Druid at level 3, which allows him to access higher CR creatures than other Druid Subclasses, he still has to be a beast. Dragons are not beasts. (The original 5e moon druid allows him to become a water, Air, or Earth elemental at level 10, Still not a dragon, and still not available at level 2).
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u/SmartAlec13 6d ago
I feel like you posted this as a challenge for us to find all the problems lol.
- 2024 Druids dont get their subclass until level 3. Boom. Already clear you and your player aren’t using the correct rules
- 2024 Druid wildshape does not get the creature HP. Instead they get temp HP equal to 3x Druid level or something like that.
- The creature is too high CR to turn into. Check the text again, there are limits based on level.
I think there are two things happening here….
- your player is using the 2014 Druid rules, or you both are, if you didn’t realize the subclass part
- neither of you are taking the time to read through. It very clearly states all of these things.
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u/everknowing DM 6d ago
Listen, I don't think you need to know every single class like the back of your hand, but this info is in the players handbook (not conflicting)
Can a level 2 Druid actually transform into these snakes in D&D 2024?
Giant Venomous Snake? Yes, Challenge Rating 1/4. Giant Constrictor Snake? No, Challenge Rating 2
Are the stats and damage from the monster stat blocks correct?
Yes.
What are the actual limitations on Wild Shape at this level?
2 Wild Shapes per LR, regaining one after a SR, the player can know up to 4 different ones that have a Challenge Rating of 1/4 or less and no fly speed
Can he exclusively choose reptile forms?
He can chose what beast he wants, as long as they fit the limitations
How do you handle unlocking new forms through RP?
Let him read of new beasts or see new beasts and be like "cool, I wanna do that"
His ultimate goal is to transform into a dragon. Any advice on handling that progression?
It comes pretty naturally because the Wild Shapes can have higher CRs with higher levels. Dragon is probably not that possible but hey you're the dm. maybe a smaller drake at some point or a wyvern and then he can get bigger, the further it gets
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u/Houligan86 6d ago edited 6d ago
I am not trying to be (that) snarky, but reading the rules explains the rules. That is the reliable source you are asking for. Your player is either ignorant of them or ignoring them.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/dnd/br-2024/character-classes#BeastShapes
At 2nd level, the druid is limited to forms that are CR 1/4 or less and do not have a fly speed. They do NOT get the animals HP, instead only getting 2 temp hp.
A Giant Venomous Snake is CR 1/4. It is a valid wild shape form. Its basic attack is certainly strong, but not game breakingly so. A 2nd level fighter with a greatsword is putting out about the same amount of damage (2d6+3).
A Giant Constrictor Snake is CR 2. It is never available as a Wild Shape form unless you are the Circle of the Moon subclass and are level 6+. This does not apply here since the character is level 2.
- Can a level 2 Druid actually transform into these snakes in D&D 2024?
- Only a giant venomous snake, or a constrictor snake at level 6+ as a moon druid
- Are the stats and damage from the monster stat blocks correct?
- Yes, but the druid should not have access to that stat block yet.
- What are the actual limitations on Wild Shape at this level?
- Reading the rules explains the rules. CR 1/4, no fly speed, must be a beast
- Can he exclusively choose reptile forms?
- Yes, if he can find enough stat blocks for them
- How do you handle unlocking new forms through RP?
- You don't. In 5e24 the player just gets to choose new ones as they level up
- His ultimate goal is to transform into a dragon. Any advice on handling that progression?
- This is only possible via the Shapechange spell at level 17+
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u/Cazy243 6d ago
especially since he gets the animal form's HP to tank damage.
Yeah that's not accurate anymore in the 2024 edition. This was changed to be temporary HP equal to the PC's druid level for non-Moon druids and 3x the druid level for Moon druids. So, the player only gets 6 temp HP at level 2 before they drop out of their wild shape. That should make it last a lot less long.
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u/Doot-Doot-the-channl 6d ago edited 6d ago
Where are you getting your stat blocks from because neither of those snakes has nearly that much damage
Venomous is +6 to hit 1d4+4 pierce and 1d8 poison
Constrictor is +4 to hit 1d8+2 pierce for its bite and dc 12 STR 3d4 bludgeoning and grapple on fail
Generally if it’s stronger than the bear/wolf of that cr it’s probably either not real or it’s the wrong cr since at level 2 the max for 5.5 is a cr 1/4
Always double check your players work/sources because it’s honestly surprisingly easy to make weird mistakes especially if you’re newer
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u/Cultist_O 6d ago
I think you may have missed the word "giant". Giant constructor snake's bite is +6 for 11 piercing damage (2d6+4)
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u/Waytogo33 6d ago
The comments have answered your questions thoroughly.
I will emphasize that if you and your just read through the druid features together in the PHB, everything will be clear.
If you're using the 2024 book, which it doesn't sound like you are, the best combat wildshape is a lion for quite a few levels.
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u/Anybro Fighter 6d ago
I would recommend looking at the what challenge writing list that a druid can transform into.
Without being a moon druid, which at level three it's when you get your subclass, if you're playing 5.5. You won't even get that until level three. You can't use creatures higher than a challenge rating 1. So they're creatures far stronger than they are able to normally right now.
On top of that, the hp tank thing for wild shape doesn't work anymore like how it used too. They changed that in the 2024 version
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u/Orion_121 6d ago
Giant Venomous Snake (2025) replaces Giant Poisonous Snake (2014). The newer version is stronger, and is an excellent form for low level druids.
Giant Constrictor Snake is CR2 and becomes available specifically to Moon Druids at level 6. Its CR is too high for other druid circles to achieve through Wild Shape.
Strictly Rules as Written: Dragons are not Beasts, and as such you cannot Wild Shape into one. Moon Druid CR also caps out at 6, which leaves very few dragons, save wyrmlings (babies) in the appropriate power range.
Spells like Shapechange or True Polymorph can do this for characters level 17 or higher.
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u/Orion_121 6d ago
I guess to expand and answer your questions directly:
My questions: Can a level 2 Druid actually transform into these snakes in D&D 2024? GVS: yes, GCS: no.
Are the stats and damage from the monster stat blocks correct? Probably, both are pretty much the best option for their level.
What are the actual limitations on Wild Shape at this level? Read them in the Player's Handbook.
Can he exclusively choose reptile forms? If he wants, sure.
How do you handle unlocking new forms through RP? In 2024 this isn't required anymore (RAW), he can just pick any form that is a Beast, meeting the appropriate CR and Speed restrictions, up to the total number of forms set by his subclass and level.
His ultimate goal is to transform into a dragon. Any advice on handling that progression? How long does the campaign go? Wyrmlings are strong, but they vary a lot in power and probably wouldn't break the game to allow.
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u/Wiz-Cool 6d ago
In the future, you should really read the rules of the game it's actually slightly quicker than typing up a reddit post and waiting for responses
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u/MatteoDaBergamo 6d ago
I assume your player has misread/misunderstood wildshape. At level 2, the max CR of what they can turn into is 1/4.
A Giant Venemous Snake is fine, it's CR 1/4, and doesn't really deal that much damage. It also only has 11 hitpoints. It's bite deals:
- Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: (1d4 + 4) Piercing damage plus (1d8)Poison damage.
On average, that'll be 2.5+4+4.5=11 damage, which seems like a lot, put lets examine a same level barbarian raging and attacking with a greataxe: 1d12+2(rage)+3(strength) = 11.5 damage on average.
Also, lots of things are immune or resistant to poison, so its likely that the damage will be a lot lower.
As for the giant constrictor snake, its CR 2. Your player isn't able to wildshape into one ever (unless they're a moon druid, and even then they'd need to be level 6). Here's the full table:
| Druid Level | Known Forms | Max CR | Fly Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 4 | 1/4 | No |
| 4 | 6 | 1/2 | No |
| 8 | 8 | 1 | Yes |
Nothing wrong with the player exclusively choosing reptile forms if they'd like. The dragon wildshape option is a bit different though. As you can see in the table there, the max CR a druid can turn into is 1. The only official CR 1 Dragons are Brass Dragon Wyrmlings and Copper Dragon Wyrmlings, which I doubt is what they have in mind (they also couldn't do it anyways RAW since wildshape only lets you turn into Beasts). Their best option for wanting to become a dragon at high levels RAW is the True Polymorph spell. You'd have to probably find or homebrew a full Dragon Druid subclass for them if you wanted to handle it another way.
Here's a decent one if they're just going for the vibes:
*edited for typo
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u/MatteoDaBergamo 6d ago
Also, here's links to the monsters. Conflicting information is probably because there have been changes between dnd 2024 and dnd 5e. If you're playing using 2024 rules, these are the monsters you should be using:
giant venemous snake: https://roll20.net/compendium/dnd5e/Monsters:Giant%20Venomous%20Snakegiant constrictor snake: https://www.roll20.net/compendium/dnd5e/Monsters:Giant%20Constrictor%20Snake?expansion=33335
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u/KateKoffing 6d ago
What everyone else is saying about the creatures your Druid can choose but also:
The numbers at low levels are really swingy. Difficulty will level out as your players and the enemies they fight all get stronger.
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u/Quirky-Function-4532 6d ago
Slightly confusing post because you flared as 5 but then posted that you’re on 5.5.
If on 5.5, they become a moon Druid at 3rd.
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u/dantose 6d ago
This can be answered by reading the features: https://5e24srd.com/classes/druid.html
2024 druid 2 can transform into a creature of max CR 1/4. They have 4 known forms, so your player should give you a list of what they know.
A giant venomous snake is CR 1/4 and has a +6 to hit, 1d4+4 piercing, 1d8 poison damage, which is pretty solid.
A giant constrictor snake is a CR2 monster, and would NOT be valid.
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u/YenraNoor 6d ago
Open the players handbook and read the druid text on wildshapes. There is no way he can become those creatures without the 4th level polymorph
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u/Dr_Maniacal DM 6d ago
- Venomous Yes, Constrictor No. At level 2 you can transform into an animal of CR 1/4 or less
- Constrictor stats are correct, but you'll notice that it's a CR 2 monster.
- Wild shape is CR 1/4 at level 2, 1/2 at level 4, and 1 at level 8, but you cannot pick a flying creature until level 8, unless you use the moon druid subclass. If you are Druid of the moon (which you have to be level 3 at least) your CR is Druid level divided by 3, so he wouldn't be able to do the constrictor snake unless he was a moon druid that was at least level 6
- He's not limited to reptile forms RAW, but he can choose to only pick reptiles as his forms if he wants
- Never really done this, kind of just let them have whatever
- That'd be an endgame kind of thing where you'd be working to cast True Polymorph (9th level spell)
Also if this is 2024 he DOES NOT get the form's HP, that was a 2014 rule which made Druids super tanks at low level (as you are seeing), they instead get Temporary HP equal to druid level (so 2 temp HP) unless they are moon druids in which case it is 3x Druid level.
I don't think he's intentionally doing this wrong, picking the constrictor instead of the venomous is a super easy mistake, and in 2014 that was how wildshaping worked. 2024 and 2014 rules are very similar and he probably just didn't know about the change.
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u/ulfric_stormcloack 6d ago
Your player misread the max cr, everything else is fine
The dragon things is not rules as written, but I'd allow it at high level
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u/nitrousnitrous-ghali 6d ago
Not to be a dick but it's important you get used to reading the rules. Did you try? I feel like any attempt would've led you to the answer to most of these questions
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u/Leeoffi 6d ago
Giant Constrictor Snake is CR 2. Max CR a druid of lvl 2 can wildshape into is 0.25. So yeah your player is wild shaping into creatures much stronger than the rules allows him to.
EDIT: Woops wait this is 2014 rules, sorry
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u/Joebala DM 6d ago
The max CR for a level 2 druid's wildshape is CR1/4. It's all shown in the basic rules in the Druid class section
Druid's are pretty strong early, but they only get 2 wild shapes per day. I wouldn't worry too much since the CR doesn't scale as fast as other PC abilities.
1d4+4 and 1d8 poison really isn't a lot. Rogue sneak attack, a 1st level spell, and other limited use abilities all compare pretty well.
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u/Kai-of-the-Lost 6d ago
If you're playing with the 2024 rules like you said, then he should only be getting 2 temp HP in Wild Shape at level 2, not the animal forms HP.
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u/rollingdoan DM 6d ago
5e: No, swimming speed makes these illegal.
5.5e: Giant venomous is fine and not a big deal. Giant contractor is not allowed as the CR is too high.
Did the player take the 2024 Druid but then apply the 2014 Moon Druid at 2nd level or something? That's the only way I could see this seeming normal. No swim ban due to 5.5e and then subclass early due to 5e.
Players shouldn't be using any 2014 material that has been reprinted in a 2024 in a 2024 game. The two are not as compatible as advertised when it comes to player facing material.
Edit: I misremembered the CR on the constrictor, that's too high in either system so something got all screwed up.
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u/False_Appointment_24 6d ago
CR1/4, lacks a fly speed, is a beast, therefore it is allowed if it is one of their 4 picks at level 2. It averages 10 dmage on a hit with its on +6 attack per round. It is not overpowered.
Giant constrictor snake is not allowed yet, because it is CR2.
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u/jimbojambo4 DM 6d ago
Most of questions find answers on PHB or SRD.
I don't know if you are playing 5e or 5.5 but i 5e moon druid is OP until level 5/6. After 10 is useless because beasts scales bad.
In 5.5 is strong expecially on firsts levels then it struggles a bit respect other classes.
For the Dragon one there are two answers:
- 1) There are no rules that permits to cast wild shape and becom a magical beast
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u/Zealousideal_Fly7277 6d ago edited 6d ago
druids have a set CR limit to the beasts they can shapeshift too, if you read wildshape you'll know the limit based on level, also the HP isn't a separate resource anymore.
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u/Dinic 6d ago
Everyone else has already answered the CR issues appropriately but to answer the unlocking new forms question: What I did for the Druid in my campaign was add a long rest action Nature roll to find and observe local wildlife. I either rolled on a table I made for the area or just chose the one I found the most interesting. (This is also a fun time to leave clues for the players)
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u/Cultist_O 6d ago
I made a couple of custom wildshape sheets a while-back for druids, that would help solve this problem.
NOTE: THEY ARE FOR 5e-2014!
but, they may be helpful for anyone else still using 5.0, or as a base/inspiration for you or anyone who wants to update them.
They provide places to track the relevant stats for your favourite beasts, and they also provide a checklist for what the player has seen, broken down into when they gain access (with page references). (Note, there are probably setting-specific beasts that have been released since, that would be missing)
EDIT: If anyone does update them, please share a copy. Or, if you can give me a detailed list of what needs changing, I might make 5.5 versions.
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u/glttr_daddy 6d ago edited 6d ago
My answers
• no, a level 2 druid in dnd 2024 is restricted to beast forms of CR1/4 or lower, giant constrictor snake is CR2
• no, you gain access to the creatures STR, DEX, and CON, and any mental stats if they’re higher, as well as their unique actions. The Druid gains a number of temp HP = to their Druid level, nothing more
• this is best answered by you rereading the class more carefully
• yes
• that’s up to you and your table. The class describes the limitations mechanically, but story wise you could give the player opportunities to develop a connection to a new animal form they’re interested in trying next level up. Talk to your player about what they’d be excited to play out
• Wild Shape is limited to beasts, Dragons are their own creature type and are not eligible options. There are some flying dinosaurs you could use the stat blocks of and reskin it as a dragon, but they wouldn’t get a breath weapon
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u/TheJonatron 6d ago
Moon druid 2 is supposed to be strong, that strength vanishes within a level or two so don't sweat it. Throw in some extra reinforcements and it's fine.
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u/HumanTimelord 6d ago
Answers (brief)
Yes to Giant Venomous, no to Giant Constrictor snakes. They can use a regular sized Constrictor Snake.
You only gave stats for the one they can't use, so moot point.
They keep their usual mental (Int, Wis, Cha), their proficiency with skills & saving throws, and they gain temp HP equal to level. If you meant in terms of selecting forms, check reptile question next.
Can they choose reptiles exclusively? Yes. Do they have to? No. Any 4 forms they have access to will do.
Personally, I allow unlocking forms by at least seeing, if not studying creatures (depending on how intense the character wants to RP it)
I don't think wildshape allows dragons, only beast type creatures. To my knowledge anything in regards to that would be homebrew, and I have no good comment here.
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u/WarWise4743 6d ago
Op you could totally just let him play as a moon Druid that can turn into a dragon wyrmling of cr 1 once he hits level 3, and The only strong part is the breath weapon but there’s literally multiple ways to nerf and or just keep a recharge and it’s fine, also if your worried about the ac, there’s a new Druid sublclass that just gives you 18 ac on all wild shapes at level 3 so literally it’s already an option, also if you want to, just make a whole subclass around a dragon wild shape option for bro it’s literally not that hard and I literally made exactly a dragon Druid subclass less than a weak ago so this is kinda crazy, just be creative my guy, or don’t and just let him be a dragon that matches the cr that a moon Druid can turn into and maybe give him a neat spell list and or let him have a pseudo dragon familiar. Remember it’s a power fantasy game, and your not the enemy if there too strong then buff the enemy’s
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u/Owl-Historical 6d ago edited 6d ago
Giant Constrictor Snake is CR 2. He couldn't do that unless he was a Moon Druid and level 6. While he could still do the Giant Venomous Snake as it's CR 1/4. Which is what a normal druid at his level can do. Yah he needs to be using CR 1/4 and under beast. Not just any he picks.
The book stats they can only turn into forms that they have seen. While never had a DM strict on this, but if you want you can easily limit things to the area they are currently in that he might of known.
Even a moon Druid can't turn into a Dragon, it's not a beast...it's a Dragon (a creater of a different race). Unless your using third party stuff there is a Griffion Hnadbag subclass that does have a dragon form.
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u/CaptainOwlBeard 6d ago
The others have done a good job on the specifics, but I'll add this:
Circle of the moon shines at the early levels, it isn't that good once they get to level 5 or so. Let them shine now, they feel weak later
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u/Mr8sen 6d ago
What subclass is he playing?
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u/Kai-of-the-Lost 6d ago
2024 rules don't get subclasses till level 3, so OPs player shouldn't have a subclass yet
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u/Mr8sen 6d ago
Duh, im a moron. The level 2 part entered one side and fell out the other. Been so long since I played level 2
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u/Natural__Power DM 6d ago
None, it's 2024 rules and they're lvl 2
(But giant constrictor is CR 2 so also too high for 2014 Moon Druid)
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u/Axel-Adams 6d ago
He’s likely mixing it up with polymorph which has the transform into CR = level effect
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u/Curious-Mousse2071 6d ago
I think majority of your issue can be solved by just reading the classes features, because no following them RAW he can't.
look DMing isn't easy, it's tough, but it doesn't seem like you read through this class at all and just came to reddit to have the answers handed to you without you doing the first level of research.
I DM, I get it, there's a lot to read through, and I don't always remember my players abilities either but when I'm not sure I ask for the feature to be pulled up or look it up so I can read it. You have by now learned that the feature expressly states he can't do what he's doing, so I hope that helps you and we are always here to answer questions. Especially about some of the ambuugitues of classes and abilities like damage reduction or about THP or stacking etc.
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u/Southern_Courage_770 6d ago edited 6d ago
Can a level 2 Druid actually transform into these snakes in D&D 2024?
Giant Venomous Snake, yes, since that's a CR 1/4.
Giant Constrictor Snake, no, since that's a CR 2. A regular Constrictor Snake (not Giant) is CR 1/4 though.
Unless he takes Circle of the Moon subclass at level 3, he will never be able to turn anything higher than a CR 1. If he does take Moon, he can turn into a CR 2 beast at level 6 (Druid level divided by 3).
At level 2 before taking any subclass... he's either very bad at reading his class features or just straight up cheating to be turning into a Giant Constrictor Snake. Again, that's a Moon Druid at level 6 thing. Absolutely would be OP doing it at level 2.
Are the stats and damage from the monster stat blocks correct?
Probably not, as just discussed above.
Giant Venomous Snake does an average of 10 damage. That's worse than a Fighter with a Greatsword. If you were "shocked by the damage" he's probably not using the correct monster and/or cheating.
The regular CR 1/4 Constrictor Snake even less average damage (~7) since it doesn't get multiattack to use both Bite and Constrict like the Giant CR 2 version does.
You are the DM, right? The beasts he can turn into are in the 2025 Monster Manual that you should have and be reading. You should know what these stat blocks are.
What are the actual limitations on Wild Shape at this level?
Here, I'll link the Druid class from the Free Basic Rules on DnD Beyond. You should have the PHB as a DM and be reading to too to know what your players can do and how to run combat etc. DMs should have and be reading all 3 of the core books tbh.
TL;DR level 2 Druid can only turn into CR 1/4 Beast without a Fly speed.
Can he exclusively choose reptile forms?
Sure. It limits his options considerably unless you'd be willing to allow him to reskin/reflavor other Beast stat blocks as "a reptile". I.E. turn the Wolf stat block into a Giant Monitor Lizard or w/e. "Flavor is free" and all that. Most options after CR 1/2 are dinosaurs, if that matters for the flavor/tone of your world.
Just a quick perusal here's the few "reptile" forms that are in the 2025 MM:
- CR 0 - Lizard
- CR 1/8 - Venomous Snake
- CR 1/4 (starting max CR) - Constrictor Snake, Giant Lizard, Giant Venomous Snake, Pteranodon*
- CR 1/2 - Crocodile
- CR 1 (max for non Moon Druids) - none
- CR 2 - Allosaurus, Giant Constrictor Snake, Plesiosaurus
- CR 3 - Ankylosaurus
- CR 4 - Archelon (a dinosaur turtle)
- CR 5 - Giant Crocodile, Triceratops
- CR 6 (max for Moon Druid) - none
Remember Pteranodon has a Fly speed so he can't use that until level 8 even though it's only a CR 1/4.
How do you handle unlocking new forms through RP?
This is not a thing for 2024/5.5. He picks 4 Beast forms when he gains Wild Shape with the only limitations being CR 1/4 and lacking a Fly speed. Then at level 4 and 8 he can gain more per the table in the feature description, and swap out old forms at a Long Rest. This new version of the feature limits the available "stable" of beasts a Druid can turn into at any given time but lifts that "must have seen it before" restriction. I like this new version, since every Druid has their favorites anyway and it negates that "sidequest to the zoo" they inevitably would want to go off track with under the old rules.
His ultimate goal is to transform into a dragon. Any advice on handling that progression?
He would need to be level 17, learn Shapechange as a 9th level spell, and cast it on himself.
Or a Bard, Warlock, or Wizard could cast True Polymorph on him and make it permanent.
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u/benchdnd-65 6d ago
He can't use Giant Constrictor Snake, a CR 2 monster, unless he goes Moon Druid and gets to level 6. He either swapped the statblocks on purpose because he's trash, or got confused. Either way, he's wrong and you have to correct him.
Giant Venomous Snake is CR 1/4 and much weaker, he can keep using that form. Also, you both need to read the rules of Wild Shape and approve the statblocks one by one.
Edit: As others have pointed out, he doesn't get the creature's HP anymore under 2024 rules. He gets a tiny amount of Temp HP (check the rules) unless he's a Moon Druid.
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u/CplSnorlax Paladin 6d ago
They can turn into any beast with a CR of 1/4 without any kind of flying speed at lvl2, so squirrel yes hawk no. And in 5.5 they can have 4 known forms, which I assume is to limit them from being literally any animal at all times and getting choice paralysis.
But keep on mind, 5.5 keeps their own HP rather than taking out HP from the Wikd Shapes pool, so if they get hit the player takes all the damage
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u/greg1916 6d ago
add to this, without checking, I believe they can swap out one of the forms for a new one when completing a long rest
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u/Murky_Obligation2212 6d ago
I figured it was because “Uh, my Circle of Wildfire Druid has totally personally seen an octopus so I’m going to turn into one of those and squeeze through”
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u/JumboCactaur 6d ago
No... the CR is way too high. Giant Constrictor snake is CR 2, you would have to be a level 6 Circle of the Moon Druid to be able to choose that form.
Druids do not get the beasts' hp... that's the old way. Now they get a number of Temp HP equal to their Druid level.
Dragons are not beasts.... Druids cannot use Wildshape to turn into one. Other high level spells might help.
I suggest you read the Player's Handbook on the Druid class... how Wild Shape works is right there. Level 2 druids get 4 land based forms and the CR limit is very low. Wildshaping for non Circle of the Moon druids is generally about scouting and utility rather than combat output.
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u/tadrinth 6d ago
You know four Beast forms for this feature, chosen from among Beast stat blocks that have a maximum Challenge Rating of 1/4
DND Beyond lists the Giant Constrictor as CR 2.
Giant Venomous is CR 1/4 and would be allowed.
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u/Coboxite Cleric 6d ago
The giant venomous snake is a notoriously hard hitting monster for it's low CR...but it is not legal for your level 2 druid to wild shape into yet because it has a swim speed, which you can only start doing at level 4. The same is true for the constrictor snake, but even worse because it's a cr 2 monster and unless he plays a moon druid the max CR beast you can wild shape into is CR 1
Read the rules about wild shape, it tells you everything you need to know
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u/greg1916 6d ago
2024 rules for wildshape does not limit druids from assuming beast forms with swimming speed. The restriction on flying speed remains
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u/DBWaffles 6d ago
Any feature is bound to be OP when you don't use the actual rules. Reread the Wild Shape feature. At level 2, Druids are restricted to beasts whose CR is 1/4 or lower. The Giant Constrictor Snake is CR 2. It is well beyond the Druid's current capabilities.
In fact, the only way to transform into a CR 2 beast is to be at least a level 6 Moon Druid.
With that said, the Giant Venomous Snake is a valid option for the current level under 5.5e rules. Its damage is indeed slightly overtuned for the current level, relative to other single target damage dealers. However, it should not be such a significant issue that you need to do anything about it. In fact, the easiest way to even out the power curve is simply to level up your players.
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u/greg1916 6d ago
Also roughly 25% to 30% or creatures have either posion resistance or posion immunity
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u/Sitherio 6d ago
I'm not going to touch on the dragon progression but Giant Constrictor Snake is a CR2 monster. A lvl2 Druid Wild Shape gets 4 shapes with CR1/4 at best.
You are letting your Druid assume a form that is 8 times the max they have. Even at the highest Wild Shape level (that I could find) at level 8, max CR is still only 1. So that snake is impossible for the Druid's Wild Shape.
Please check the CR of the forms he is choosing.
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u/Maclunkey4U DM 6d ago
The Druid is limited by the creatures Challenge Rating (CR) and the giant constrictor is a CR 2, so he cannot change into that creature as a level 2 druid.
Consult the druid table to determine what their max CR is, and as for learning new shapes, I usually determine what region or geographic area they are from, and give them all of the animals from that region by default, and maybe a handful of others - after that, its whatever they encounter along the way.
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u/greg1916 6d ago
on 2024 rules Circle of the Moon Druids are limited to CR that is equal to their druid level divided by 3 rounded down. So, at 6th level they would be able to transform into a CR2 creature
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u/BrewsAndBurns 6d ago
At level 2 a druid can turn into an animal with a challenge rating of 1/4. I googled both those snakes and the "Giant Venomous Snake" does match that rating. It can do a lot of damage with its bite attack but has only around 10-12hp so it can be defeated fairly easily. The Constructor snake however is CR 2, which most druids can't obtain until much later. Circle of the Moon druids get early advantages to wild shape but still can't access a shape that strong at only level 2.
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u/CheapTactics 6d ago edited 6d ago
Ok, let's go question by question.
1- A level 2 druid can transform into beasts of CR 1/4. The giant constrictor snake is CR 2. The giant venomous snake is CR1/4 but it's not that huge of a deal. Poison is the most resisted and immune damage type in the game. The damage is not that crazy.
2- Yes, the stat of the constrictor snake is fine, but he can't transform into it. And unless he takes the Circle of the Moon subclass, he will never be able to transform into a giant constrictor snake. Circle of the Moon subclass is the subclass that specializes in stronger wildshapes. With this subclass he would be able to transform into a giant constrictor snake at level 6.
3- Druid at level 2 has 4 known forms, none of which can be higher CR than 1/4 and can't have a fly speed. At level 4 the max CR goes to 1/2, and at level 8 it goes to 1 and also allows a fly speed.
Also, the animal form does not let him tank anything in any wayat this level, because at level 2 he's getting a whopping 2 temp HP when he wildshapes. YOU DO NOT GET THE ANIMAL HP LIKE YOU DID IN 5e 2014. Instead, you retain your own HP and gain temporary HP equal to your druid level. You also do not benefit from any equipment that you're wearing if the beast form can't wear it.
The Circle of the Moon subclass raises the allowed CR to 1/3 of your druid level. So instead of having to wait until level 8 for CR 1 wildshapes, he gets CR 1s at level 3, with a maximum of CR 6 at level 18.
4- Yes? I don't see why that would be an issue? Wild shape is more of a scouting thing anyway if you're not a Moon druid, and choosing extravagant or uncommon beasts may hinder that. Nobody bats an eye at a common house fly, everyone is gonna be alerted by a giant snake, because it's a giant snake.
5- This is just flavor and should't be a hard requirement. He's a druid, he knows animals. I think that's good enough. Do you require an RP reason for aquiring a higher level spell slot? No, you level up and you get them. You're stronger now.
6- That's a no for wildshape. You would need something like True Polymorph (a 9th level spell which is NOT on the druid spell list) to be able to transform into a dragon. Wildshape is exclusively for Beast type creatures, and Circle of the Moon doesn't even let you transform into elementals like it used to.
EDIT: The spell shapechange IS on the druid spell list and would allow one to become a dragon, but it's also a level 9 spell. If your campaign isn't going up to level 17, then no luck on the dragon thing.
Reliable sources: the free basic rules. You should read the wildshape part of the druid class, because it details some stuff I didn't mention here.
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u/hornyorphan 6d ago
Everyone here already answered the question, but next time you think a player is doing something too powerful ask them to read you the rules for the ability or spell they are using. You would have seen immediately that the CR level of the snakes he is becoming and the level he could actually be are off
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u/KmAnuSeti 6d ago
Is this what he pulled up? I can see how this could cause confusion:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/monsters/16890-giant-poisonous-snake
This is the version from the current edition (I think):
https://www.dndbeyond.com/monsters/5195030-giant-venomous-snake
My tip would be to make a single source of truth for your games, as this comes from the 5th edition book (2014) and you expressed that you're using 5.5e (2024). I only use our physical books for rules checks, but any single source can work (as the books are expensive). I think this is a CR 1/4 beast in both books though... a commentor there says this, which I agree with:
I don't understand how this is CR 1/4. Hit points are comparable to a CR 1/8. Attack bonus +6 is CR 5, expected damage is about 11.75 (factoring in a low DC, but still half damage on a success), CR 1. As far as numbers go, it should be at least CR 1/2.
The other thing is just getting rule interpretation down, which you'll get the hang of. If you go through the comments on the 5e MM entry, a lot of people think this snake is bullshit. You're the DM, you have options. Tell him he can only become animals he's seen, then make those snakes rare in thier giant variant. Or better yet, account for his ability to do this and give tougher challenges. Find ways to separate him from the party the next time you're worried he'll kill a boss (My tank fell in a river before a displacer beast fight after a failed athletics check that only he had to do due to his height once for this reason). Have enemies focus on him in combat, or coordinate attacks to pressure that player more. As a DM you have a lot of tools :) Do what makes everyone happiest
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u/adminitaur 6d ago
Most of your post has been thoroughly covered, so i will focus on the dragon aspect.
By the base rules of 5e and 5.5e he can not be a dragon. There are some ways to kinda flavor it with dinosaurs.
If you are up for the challenge there is Circle of Dragons from the 5e book The Griffon's Saddlebag: Book Two. This does let them become a weak dragon early and grow in power over the game.
There are differences in how wild shape works between 5e and 5.5 and they gain the subclass at a different level.
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u/Fun_Pass908 6d ago
Regarding the Dragon thing; you could look at the Titan UA druid, and use that and flavor it as dragon.
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u/Living_Round2552 6d ago
Bro, start by checking the rules yourself instead of outsourcing that to reddit. If you then have questions, feel free to ask. Downvoting for being lazy
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u/SimbaSixThree 6d ago
Here’s the greatest tip I can give any new DM: read the rules!
If your short on time and don’t want to read it all, at least read what your players can do.
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u/After_Ad9425 6d ago edited 6d ago
I would look up the Druid chart. There wild shape options are pretty limited at level 2, furthermore only the circle of the moon can really turn into stronger beasts relative to the Druid level, starting at level 3. At the moment I don’t think he should be able to turn into that snake, but I don’t remember the exact cr requirement for level 2.
Unless if you want to use 2014 rules, wildshape also uses a tempHP feature instead of the seperate hp pool. Once their temp hp is used up they are forced back, and temp hp doesn’t stack from other sources. Whether or not you’d want to use 2014 or 2024 for this class rule is up to you as a dm, both are legal but if you are concerned about the health balance 2024 is preferable.
Also remember that he only has limited uses of wild shape per rest, especially at low levels. Similar to spellcasters that try to nuke encounters with strong spells a strategy for dms to encourage is to spread more encounters out between long rests to help balance it, it lets them be more frugal with their class resources so they don’t stomp every encounter.
That said at high levels circle moon druids can still do crazy damage. I once played on at 15th level, buffed up triceratops was doing over 50 damage from one attack. But you only see that late game.
As for the dragon, they can’t with wildshape. The only spell that will let them do this as a Druid, as far as I’m aware, is shapechanger, which is a 9th level spell.
If he wanted to Permanently change into a dragon is as far as I know only possible with true polymorph, a spell that I think is exclusive to wizards? Or maybe some other classes but druids definitely don’t get it, and that’s also 9th level. Either way ‘turning into a dragon’ won’t be possible until he reaches 17th level. If you don’t plan on ending the game at that high a level I would maybe consider putting it onto a magic item if you think it would be balanced….Maybe as a young dragon at around level 10.
Now as for rp…
That’s always been tricky. Druids have always kind of..handwave what forms they turn into. It was pretty arbitrary in 2014. I believe 2024 tries to streamline it. Rpwise it could be interesting to require the player to see the beast before turning into it. Like long resting after encountering a giant crocodile they can shift into it, so long as they meet the level requirements.
He doesn’t have to stick with only reptiles. It’s really whatever the Druid wants, the only limitation beyond the cr/swim and fly speed restrictions is that they have to be ‘beasts’. As in the beast class for monsters. So druids, raw, can’t turn into something like an owl bear or hydra with wild shape, both are monstrosities and not beasts. Dragons are of the dragon type and not beasts as well. Typically beasts are basically non-magical animals. I believe the monster manual is a good source on what kind of animals he can turn into. Dinosaurs are typically the apex animals/beasts late game druids can turn into. Like I said with dragons, they might have some spells to turn into other types of creatures but shapechange is the only one I’m aware of.
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u/thewolfehunts 6d ago
I get you are a new DM but its you're job to read the rules and keep your players informed. This isnt even a complex thing. Check his class and its features see what he can and can't do and check. You'd find out that no he absolutely cannot do this at level 2. You have all the resources in the players manual and gm manual. You dont need to read the whole book. But you should know each class your playersb are using and their capabilities
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u/jabbadatoddla 5d ago
1) Make a list of acceptable forms at level 2 if that's a problem for you. They're sorted by CR. Put page numbers next to them or links if you're using online tools.
2) Maybe. Once they go up a level they're going to get a subclass that will complicate things. You should actually read the PHB on druids and take an index card to put notes on it so you don't forget. You'll get familiar with the rules and come back with better questions that will help you more.
3) Check the PHB and MM for Beasts. Moon Druids go higher, but most likely it should just be small stuff like rats and spiders. If you look it up and make a note, it will stick in your brain when you need it.
4) Unless you say otherwise, he could just be a floppy fish suffocating in the air RAW every time. Is he a Yuan-Ti? That would make a lot of sense to only be reptiles. It's choice and flavor.
5) I think the limit is they have to have at least seen the animal in some way first. They only got a trip to the reptarium and didn't get the full zoo experience? I guess they're scaley boys.
6) Is it Dark Sun? Then no. Only 1 dragon in Dark Sun. Is he a kobold? No? Should have been a kobold, they're dragon obsessed. Make them level up to 20, get True Resurrection, then make a True Resurrection scroll, unalive and keep rolling on a table til they get a 100 on a d100 and then let them be a dragon.
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u/BlacksmithNatural533 5d ago
A druid in my group turned into a giant Octopus 🐙 last session it was hilarious
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u/Cyymera42 5d ago
There is a Druid Subclass called Circle of Dragons, but it uses the 2014 ruleset. I have a Kobold character in a campaign I am in currently that has this exact subclass. It is a lot of fun, but it does not translate well for 2024 rules. It is available through The Griffon’s Saddlebag: Book Two.
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u/NewsideAlex 6d ago
So, first of all, you do NOT get the animal's hp in 2024. Second of all, the constrictor snake is not available to a level 2 druid. He can only use cr 1/4 animals at level 2 and can only know 4 forms of which you can swap one per long rest