Health (Werewolf: The Apocalypse 5th Edition)
Definition
Health represents a Garou's physical condition and capacity to absorb damage. It is a derived stat calculated from Stamina, and it tracks injuries using a damage track of Superficial and Aggravated damage boxes. For werewolves, Health takes on special significance because of their supernatural regeneration, which allows them to heal most wounds in seconds. Garou Health is dramatically affected by shapeshifting. In Crinos form a werewolf gains 4 more Health levels on top of Stamina plus 3, making them significantly harder to bring down. This regeneration and expanded Health pool is what makes werewolves terrifying combatants in the war against the Wyrm. However, silver weapons deal Aggravated damage that bypasses regeneration, and fire is similarly dangerous. Managing Health means understanding when to press an attack and when to retreat, when to shift forms for extra durability, and when the threat of silver makes caution essential.
How it works
Tips
Frequently asked questions
How does Garou regeneration work?
Garou clear Superficial damage rapidly and without spending an action, so minor wounds close almost instantly. Aggravated damage from silver, fire, or powerful supernatural attacks does not regenerate and must heal naturally over time or through spiritual means.
What happens when my Health track is full?
When all Health boxes are filled with Superficial damage, additional Superficial damage converts to Aggravated. When all boxes are Aggravated, the Garou is incapacitated and may die without immediate help.
Does shifting to Crinos give extra Health?
Yes, 4 of them, on top of the Stamina plus 3 you carry in every other form, which makes Crinos the preferred shape for sustained combat. This is one reason Garou are so dangerous in their war forms.