In 4th Edition, artifacts are more accessible than ever before. Drop any one of these new artifacts into your game, and you’ll immediately grab your players' attention. Described in full, each artifact has a life of its own and can readily supplement those found in the Dungeon Master's Guide.

Artifacts have been a staple of D&D since 1st Edition. The Dungeon Master's Guide presented several legendary items to inspire adventures or even entire campaigns. More accessible than in any previous incarnation of the game, artifacts can now make their way safely into the hands of characters even in the paragon tier, or possibly before. This article presents new artifacts to supplement those in the Dungeon Master's Guide, from the strange figurine of an ebony elephant to a helm of untold power. If used with care, they can become a fabulous source of inspiration for your game and provide one lucky character with an experience he or she will never forget.

About the Author

David Noonan is a game designer for Wizards of the Coast, Inc. He contributed to the 4th Edition core rules and co-wrote the Scepter Tower of Spellgard adventure. He lives in Washington state with his wife and two children.