I really enjoy the concept of Legendary Resistances in D&D. As DMs, we want boss monsters to have the opportunity to use their cool abilities, and the game is much more enjoyable when they can do so. To ensure that bosses aren’t locked down on the first round due to effects like being stunned, restrained, or other conditions that essentially turn them into a sitting duck, we need a way to help them succeed on their saving throws.

However, the one issue I have with Legendary Resistances in official WOTC stat blocks is that they aren’t physically represented in the game world. Rhodar Von Glauer from Flee Mortals was the first example I’ve seen where Legendary Resistances are tied to a physical manifestation. He has floating spears around him that burst whenever he uses one to succeed on a saving throw instead of failing. I think this is a brilliant idea because it not only adds flavor to the encounter but also gives players a clear visual cue about the creature’s abilities.

So, if you’re going to use a monster with Legendary Resistances, I highly recommend providing a physical representation for it in the world. This can help make the monster feel more dynamic and memorable. Below, I’ll provide some ideas categorized by creature type to inspire you. I won’t do every type just enough to give ideas.

Aberrations

• Legendary Mind Flayers or Elder Brains could have brains in jars around them or attached to them that burst or explode when damaged.
• Aboleths and Beholders could have glowing eyes that violently shut when they take damage.

Beasts

• A beast could shed its scales or armor as it uses its resistances, growing more ferocious and dangerous with each transformation.

Celestials

• Celestials might have extra sets of wings that they can shed, affecting their flying speed when they do.

Constructs

• Constructs could have runes inscribed on their bodies, each representing a specific element. Using their resistances could destroy these runes, or attacking with the associated element might trigger a reaction.

Humanoids

• Mages could have Ioun stones that float around them, absorbing the effects of attacks or spells they would otherwise resist.
• Warriors might have legendary armor that cracks over time, eventually shedding it when destroyed or damaged.

Undead

• Liches or Mummies could have phylacteries or sarcophagi that become cracked or destroyed by certain attacks, potentially weakening them in the process.

Dragons

• Dragons could shed their scales or claws as they take damage, becoming more dangerous as they lose protection but gain strength and aggression.

Try this in your next game to spice up your legendary monsters!