10 Diabolical Ways for DMs to Pull the Rug Out From Under Their Group

(Using the 2024 D&D 5e Rules)

One of the greatest joys of being a Dungeon Master isn't just crafting immersive worlds or epic battles — it’s the moment your players think they’ve won, only for reality to twist beneath their feet. With the 2024 D&D 5e Core Rule updates now in effect, here are 10 expertly evil (but narratively satisfying!) ways to catch your players off guard and make your sessions unforgettable.

Disclaimer: These ideas are designed to surprise, not punish. Always prioritise fun and story — and deploy twists sparingly for maximum impact!

1. Counterspell the Cleric's Revivify... and Make Them Roll For It

With the 2024 revision, Counterspell now requires a spellcasting ability check (DC = 10 + the spell's level) - no more automatic shutdowns.

This actually makes it more dramatic.

The cleric rushes in. The spell is cast. The villain raises a hand.

"Make a spellcasting ability check."
The table holds its breath. A failed roll means the resurrection fails. Tension. Stakes. Tears.

2. Use silvery Barbs on a Death Save

Yes, this works. Yes, it's nasty.
The barbarian rolls a nat 20 on a death save, leaps back to life with 1 HP...

"The BBEG uses Silvery Barbs. Reroll that save, please."
Suddenly that triumphant comeback becomes a failed gasp for air.

3. Disguise Self - The Long Con

That trusted ally who’s helped since Session 3?
They were the BBEG all along, using Disguise Self or Seeming. Let your players get comfortable. Maybe even build a bond.

Then reveal that every secret they shared, every artifact they handed over... was part of your plan.

4. Illusory Loot Is Still Loot — Just Not Real

That glowing sword on the pedestal? Major Image.
The vault full of gold? Silent Image.
Let them spend 10 minutes celebrating — then have an NPC walk right through the pile of treasure.

Bonus points: the real treasure was somewhere else... and now it’s gone.

5. The Villain Knew About the MacGuffin First

Players love feeling like they're the only ones with secret lore. Flip the script.
The villain read the same prophecy. They deciphered the same map.

When the party shows up?

“You’re late,” the villain says, holding the artifact.
Roll initiative.

6. Legendary Resistance at the Perfect Moment

Druids cast Hold Monster. The Paladin lands Banishing Smite.
Everyone cheers.
Then:

“The dragon chooses to succeed. Legendary Resistance.”
Use it when it hurts. Make them question every spell slot they have left.

 

7. The Exit Is a Mimic

Running from a burning tower?
They charge the exit.
They touch the door.

CHOMP. Roll for initiative.
The Mimic was the way out. And now it's the thing between them and survival.

 

8. Counterspell the Counterspell

Spell duels are epic.
The party wizard casts Counterspell to block Disintegrate.
The villain?

“Readied action: Counterspell your Counterspell.”
Let the spellcasting ability checks fly. Stack reactions. Go full magic chess.

 

9. The Prophecy Was Misinterpreted — They Helped the BBEG

All campaign, the Paladin believed they were the Chosen One.
But they misread the ancient text.
The party’s actions actually enabled the villain. That ritual they “stopped?” It was the final key.

Turn prophecy into plot twist fuel, not a railroad.

10. The Quest Giver Was the Villain the Whole Time

This one hurts in the best way.
They’ve done every job. Recovered ancient relics. Foiled minor villains. All on the orders of a mysterious, helpful benefactor.

Then, at the climax:

“Thank you, heroes. You've done everything I needed to restore my power.”
The final boss? They were working for them the whole time.

 

Final Thoughts: Twist With Care

These tactics aren't about punishing players — they’re about raising the narrative stakes, creating unforgettable moments, and making players rethink what they think they know. Always ensure you’re playing with a group that enjoys a little narrative chaos and unexpected drama.

Because when done right, pulling the rug out from under your players doesn’t just shake the game — it makes it legendary.

-Robbie, Resident DM at The Gamers Lodge

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