The Firbolg

The firbog was a type of giant that first appeared Monster Manual II back in 1983. They've made a number of appearances since in the various editions of D&D, including being made a player-character race in 1993. While not exactly friendly, they don't engage in the the kinds of destructive behavior that many other types of giants do. They also possess some pretty potent magical abilities.

Firbolg

Large giant, neutral

Armor Class 14 (natural armor)

Hit Points 136 (13d10+65)

Speed 40 ft.

Str                    Dex                  Con                  Int                    Wis                  Cha

22 (+6)             10 (+0)             21 (+5)             11 (+0)             13 (+1)             14 (+2)

Saving Throws Con +8, Wis +4, Cha +5

Skills Athletics +9, Perception +4

Proficiencies any two Artisan’s tools

Senses passive Perception 14

Languages Common, Giant

Challenge 8

Innate Spellcasting. The firbolg’s innate spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 13). It can innately cast the following spells, requiring no material components:

1/day each: alter self, detect magic, enlarge/reduce (reduce only), modify memory

Magic Resistance. The firbolg has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.

Actions

Multiattack. The firbolg makes two greatsword attacks.

Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 20 (4d6+6) slashing damage.

Javelin. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 30/120, one target. Hit: 13 (2d6+6) piercing damage

The firbolg are a rarely encountered race of giants. They are cautious and cunning and possess significant magical power. Their small family groups live far from civilization, in remote areas where they are safe from encounters with humans and their ilk. Firbolgs do not conduct raids on others, and prefer to avoid violence to resolve conflicts. If forced into combat, though, they are powerful and cunning combatants, making good use of the terrain and readily using their magic.

Firbolgs are typically 10 to 12 feet tall, looking very much like a human of extraordinary size. Hair is usually brown to red and worn long, with males sporting full beards. It is not uncommon for firbolgs to paint patterns on their skin using dye made from different plants and other natural sources. They weave their own cloth and their clothing is well-made, if somewhat plain.

Hunters and Farmers

Each family group maintains a home for themselves, usually constructed of wood. While they don’t often keep domesticated animals, they do grow crops of different sorts, and are quite skilled at farming. Meat is usually provided by hunting.

Firbolgs practice a number of different crafts, such as weaving and woodworking. They don’t often trade with other races, but are happy to do so with those they trust. Firbolgs particularly enjoy the brewing of alcoholic beverages.

Fey Ancestry

Many believe that firbolgs are descended from fey, which would explain their magical abilities. The firbolgs don’t see fit to answer the question, if they even know the truth of the matter. What is known is all firbolgs possess potent magical abilities, and some, such as their rarely seen shamans, have stronger magic still.