Can Oathbreaker Paladins still smite?
One of the most intriguing questions in the realm of Dungeons and Dragons is whether an Oathbreaker Paladin can still smite their enemies. This article aims to provide a comprehensive answer to this question, highlighting the key differences between Oathbreakers and regular Paladins and exploring the implications of an Oathbreaker’s power.
The Dilemma
The question "Can Oathbreaker Paladins still smite?" appears to be straightforward, but it hides several complexities. At its core, it is a philosophical inquiry, pitting the Paladin’s duty to uphold the holy oath against the Oathbreaker’s desire for personal gain. From a mechanical perspective, it raises questions about how an Oathbreaker’s powers intersect with their changed alignment and dedication to dark forces.
Smite vs. Divine Smite
To address this issue, we need to distinguish between Smite and Divine Smite. Smite is a passive ability that grants a Paladin an innate ability to harm evil creatures more effectively, making it a key feature of their arsenal. Divine Smite, on the other hand, is an active spell-like ability that inflicts holy fire damage upon enemies.
When an Oathbreaker Paladin takes this path, they lose access to Divine Smite, replacing it with Unholy Smite. While this might seem like a devastating blow, Oathbreakers compensate by gaining access to dark magics, demonic powers, and additional abilities tailored to their twisted philosophy.
Paladin vs. Oathbreaker Paladin
The most striking difference between regular Paladins and Oathbreaker Paladins is their alignment and dedication to the faith. Oathbreaker Paladins break their sacred oaths, embracing the darkness and using their powers for nefarious purposes. As they slide further into corruption, their connection to their deity weakens, and their ability to utilize holy abilities diminishes. Ultimately, Oathbreakers cease being Paladins in the true sense, sacrificing their moral compass and righteousness for temporary power.
Breaking Free
It is worth noting that, as per official DMG material, there is the possibility for Oathbreaker Paladins to redeem themselves by fulfilling certain requirements. If a former Oathbreaker Paladin atones, they can recover their lost virtues, shed their corruption, and reclaim their true Paladin mantle. This act is not easily accomplished and necessitates intense self-reflection and a demonstrated commitment to restoring honor.
What does it Mean for Smiting?
In summary, Oathbreaker Paladins lose access to Divine Smite, their holy ability for inflicting damage. However, as they progress down their twisted path, they gain the ability to perform Unholy Smite, a new brand of dark magics designed specifically for their sinister purposes. As long as they adhere to their corrupt agenda, Oathbreaker Paladins have the power to smite – albeit through different means and driven by differing motivations.
The Broader Impact
Oathbreaker Paladins’ shift toward darkness poses significant implications for both mechanical and narrative elements. Their altered ability to smite reflects a changed fundamental nature, with the holy no longer influencing their actions. Instead, darkness and shadow become their crutch, fueling the need for chaos and destruction. GMs, when allowing a player to become an Oathbreaker, should ensure that the player recognizes the gravity of their character’s shift away from redemption and the subsequent responsibilities that come with this transformation.
| Characteristics | Reg. Paladin | Oathbreaker Paladin |
|---|---|---|
| Alignment | Neutral Good | Chaotic Neutral / Evil |
| Oath/Bond | Sacred Oath | Broken Oath, Embrace of Darkness |
| Abilities | Smite, Divine Smite | Unholy Smite, Dark Magics, Demonic Powers |
Ultimately, the answer to Can Oathbreaker Paladins still smite? lies at the intersection of philosophy, mechanics, and drama. When an Oathbreaker breaks their oath, they forfeit their connection to holy powers and principles. In this new capacity, Oathbreakers can continue to exercise their combat prowess through unholiest means, while surrendering any semblance of the Paladin’s true calling.
Disclaimer: All content within is based on publicly available sources (DnD books and online materials).