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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Usually, no. In both the 2014 and 2024 versions of Dungeons & Dragons’ Polymorph spell, the target’s game statistics are replaced by a Beast’s stat block, and class features are not listed among the things retained. Check which edition your table is using; in 2024, do not mistake Polymorph for the Druid’s Wild Shape, which explicitly preserves class features.
What happens to class features under Polymorph?
The normal reading of both editions’ spell text is that you cannot use your class features as the creature you become. The spell replaces your game statistics with those of the chosen Beast, while naming specific traits that remain. Class features are not on either edition’s retention list.
This is a conclusion from the replacement rule and its listed exceptions—not a sentence that explicitly says every class feature is lost. For a feature with unusual wording or an interaction that matters to your game, check that feature’s own text and ask the DM to adjudicate it.
Does the answer differ between 2014 and 2024?
2014 rules
The official 2014 Basic Rules spell text says the target’s game statistics—including mental ability scores—are replaced by the chosen Beast’s statistics. Alignment and personality remain. The spell also prevents the target from casting spells and from activating, using, wielding, or benefiting from equipment while transformed. It does not name class features as something retained.
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2024 rules
The current Polymorph spell text likewise replaces the target’s game statistics with the Beast’s stat block. It specifically retains alignment, personality, creature type, Hit Points, and Hit Point Dice; class features are not included in that list. The target also cannot speak or cast spells.
Why Polymorph is not the same as Wild Shape
The 2024 Wild Shape rules explicitly say that a Druid retains class features when their game statistics are replaced by a Beast’s stat block. That exception belongs to Wild Shape; it does not carry over to Polymorph. The System Reference Document 5.2 lists the traits Wild Shape retains, including class features, languages, and feats.
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What about a class feature that was already active?
For the 2014 rules, the official Sage Advice Compendium clarifies: “Polymorph replaces only the target’s character sheet or stat block with the stat block of the chosen form. Other effects, such as other spells, still exist.” In other words, replacing your statistics does not itself end an ongoing spell effect. That clarification does not mean class features are retained, nor does it settle every feature-specific case. Whether a feature’s existing effect continues depends on its wording and the situation.
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Quick ruling at the table
- Identify whether the game is using the 2014 or 2024 spell text.
- Apply Polymorph’s replacement rule and the specific traits that edition says remain; class features are not listed.
- If the question concerns an effect already in progress or a feature with unusual wording, read that feature’s text separately. The 2014 Sage Advice clarification concerns ongoing effects, not blanket access to class features.
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