[RPG] Which stat and proficiency bonuses of a creature you transform into do you gain

dnd-5epolymorphproficiencywild-shape

When you transform into a creature via a spell or wild shape, you gain its Str, Dex and Con ability scores, but keep your Int, Cha and Wis scores. However, if the creature you're transforming into has higher Int, Cha or Wis scores than you (such as using shapechange to become an Ancient Brass Dragon or an Androsphinx), can you choose to take the new score?

If a creature has a skill proficiency or saving throw proficiency that you do not (such as having 'Stealth +6' or 'Int+6' as skill and save proficiency of which you have neither), you gain proficiency in these two, but do you use the listed +6? Can you only choose to use this score if you had proficiency before transforming, and otherwise you work out the bonus with your new stats and proficiency bonus before you transformed?

Best Answer

It depends on which spell/method you are using.

Polymorph (as well as True Polymorph) states:

PHB pg. 166

The target’s game statistics, including mental ability scores, are replaced by the statistics of the chosen beast. It retains its alignment and personality.

As for Wild Shape, it specifically states:

PHB pg. 67

Your game statistics are replaced by the statistics of the beast, but you retain your alignment, personality, and Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma scores. You also retain all of your skill and saving throw proficiencies, in addition to gaining those of the creature. If the creature has the same proficiency as you and the bonus in its stat block is higher than yours, use the creature’s bonus instead of yours.

The Druid spell Animal Shapes also states that the targets retain their Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma scores.

The text does not specify, so this would be something to ask your DM. I would probably rule that regardless of the method get the proficiencies in the same way that Wild Shape does, just for consistency, but your DM might differ.

Related Topic