A Dungeons & Dragons concept artist revealed a new design for the game's Emerald Dragon monster to debut in the upcoming Fizban's Treasury of Dragons reference book.Images of the redesign, originally shared by journalist Christian Hoffer, were later confirmed by Shawn G. Wood, a senior concept artist for Dungeons & Dragons. The Emerald Dragon's new look is much slicker than players will have seen in previous editions. While the gem dragon last appeared in Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition, its design was more angular and chunky, with gemstones protruding out of its skin. This version appears to have smoother, seemingly neon skin with a long, twisting neck.Related: Critical Role Announces Revised Sourcebook Tal'Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn

"Some the dragon redesigns I did are probably the biggest DND changes I've done since my take on the firbolg," writes Wood. "I know not everyone will be happy where I took them, but I hope most appreciate it. This is a cool little preview." While the actual art for the Emerald Dragon has yet to be revealed, the WizKids premium figure is enough to glean how drastic the changes are.

While many fans expressed enthusiasm for the redesign, others were less favorable. The lack of gemstone scales is a popular point of contention for many D&D players who prefer the dragon's aesthetic from previous editions of the tabletop role-playing game.

Related: Through the Veil: Treasures of the Feywild Introduces New Items and Adventures for D&D 5e

Dungeons & Dragons Third Edition explains that Emerald Dragons tend to be distrustful and paranoid, often lining their lairs with traps to kill any intruders. These powerful beasts often live underground, close to civilization. They are private dragons, preferring to keep to themselves rather than interfering with others of their kind.

Fans currently not sold on the new look will need to wait until the official release of Fizban's Treasury of Dragons. The upcoming reference book for Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition will reintroduce a variety of dragon species into the game, one of which is the Emerald Dragon itself. Beyond an expanded roster of creatures, players can expect draconic ancestries for Dragonborn characters, dragon-themed subclasses and new feat and spell options.

Fizban's Treasury of Dragons launches on Oct. 19, which may seem like a long way away for fans desperate for new D&D content, but never fear! A new adventure, The Wild Beyond the Witchlight, launches on Sept. 12! If that's not enough to satisfy your role-playing needs, then the release of Strixhaven: A Curriculum of Chaos on Nov. 16 should be enough to keep you going for the rest of the year.

Keep Reading: Dungeons & Dragons: What to Know Before Running Baldur's Gate: Descent Into Avernus

Source: Twitter