There are many books that have influenced me as a Dungeon Master, but perhaps none as profoundly as the first of Keith Ammann’s books – “The Monsters know what they’re doing”

Keith introduces a different way of thinking about how to play monster NPC characters. Keith describes various races and monsters and describes in grave detail their motivations, tendencies, and characteristics. Rather than simply running all combats the same, this book provides a different way to think about the monster NPCs. I found this book equally valuable as the “How to be a great GM” site and Youtube videos, only focused on the individual NPCs as opposed to storytelling and plot.

Both resources make me put myself in the place of the opponent as ask what their motivations are, what is the monster trying to accomplish, how do they win? The book really brings the NPCs alive.

Whereas the Monster Manual lists the ‘What’ – a stat blocks and powers, this book defines the ‘Why’ and ‘How’ – motivations, tactics, strategies, and desires.

I highly recommend picking this and other books in the series up. They provide a wealth of information to consider to bring your combats and NPCs alive. I found the book extremely valuable to help flesh out NPCs outside of combat as well – how NPCs would converse, negotiate, and double-cross players.

Excellent source for upgrading two-dimensional combats to three-dimensional encounters. I also found the book an excellent source for inspiration for longer term plot hooks and quests.

A veritable treasure trove and easy to read. You don’t need to read it all at once – it can be a reference manual you can reach for when you need help with a special monster or combat.