Can an Oathbreaker paladin smite?

Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Smite?

In the world of Dungeons and Dragons, the Oathbreaker Paladin is a unique and intriguing subclass. But one question that often arises is whether an Oathbreaker Paladin can smite. In this article, we’ll delve into the answer and explore the details of the Oathbreaker Paladin’s abilities.

Starting at 2nd Level

According to the official D&D 5th edition rules, starting at 2nd level, an Oathbreaker Paladin gains an Unholy Smite instead of a Divine Smite. When an Oathbreaker Paladin hits a creature with a melee weapon attack, they can expend one paladin spell slot to deal necrotic damage to the target, in addition to the weapon’s damage.

What is Unholy Smite?

Unholy Smite is a unique ability that allows the Oathbreaker Paladin to deal necrotic damage to their enemies. This ability is different from the traditional Divine Smite, which deals radiant damage. The Unholy Smite is a manifestation of the Oathbreaker Paladin’s dark and unholy power.

Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Use Divine Smite?

No, an Oathbreaker Paladin cannot use Divine Smite. As stated in the official rules, starting at 2nd level, an Oathbreaker Paladin gains an Unholy Smite instead of a Divine Smite. This means that they do not have access to the Divine Smite ability.

Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Use Other Paladin Abilities?

Despite not having access to Divine Smite, an Oathbreaker Paladin can still use other paladin abilities, such as Lay on Hands, Aura of Protection, and Aura of Courage. These abilities are part of the paladin class features and are not tied to the Divine Smite ability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an Oathbreaker Paladin cannot use Divine Smite. Instead, they gain an Unholy Smite ability at 2nd level, which allows them to deal necrotic damage to their enemies. While they may not have access to the traditional paladin abilities, they still have a unique set of powers that make them a formidable opponent on the battlefield.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks for playing an Oathbreaker Paladin:

• Use your Unholy Smite wisely: Unholy Smite is a powerful ability that can deal significant damage to your enemies. Use it strategically to take out tough enemies or to finish off weakened foes.
• Combine with other abilities: Unholy Smite can be combined with other abilities, such as Lay on Hands or Aura of Protection, to create powerful combos.
• Focus on melee combat: As an Oathbreaker Paladin, you’re more effective in melee combat. Focus on building your Strength and Constitution to increase your damage output.
• Use your Aura abilities: Your Aura abilities, such as Aura of Protection and Aura of Courage, can be used to support your allies and hinder your enemies.

Table: Oathbreaker Paladin Abilities

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Oathbreaker Paladin is a unique and powerful subclass that offers a different playstyle than traditional paladins. While they may not have access to Divine Smite, they have a range of other abilities that make them a formidable opponent on the battlefield. With the right build and playstyle, an Oathbreaker Paladin can be a valuable addition to any party.