Does turn undead destroy undead?

Does Turn Undead Destroy Undead?

Turn Undead is a powerful feature in the Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) game, allowing clerics to destroy undead creatures. But does it really destroy them, or does it just weaken them? In this article, we’ll explore the answers to this question and provide a comprehensive overview of Turn Undead.

Direct Answer

According to the D&D 5th edition Player’s Handbook, when an undead of CR 1/2 or lower fails its saving throw against your Turn Undead feature, the creature is instantly destroyed. This means that if an undead creature of a low challenge rating (CR) fails its saving throw, it will be destroyed immediately.

How Turn Undead Works

Turn Undead is a channel divinity feature that allows clerics to channel divine energy to destroy undead creatures. The feature works as follows:

• Saving Throw: The undead creature gets a saving throw to resist the effects of Turn Undead.
• Damage: If the creature fails its saving throw, it takes 1d10 + Wisdom modifier radiant damage.
• Destruction: If the creature’s hit points fall to 0 or lower, it is instantly destroyed.

Undead Creatures Affected

Turn Undead affects the following types of undead creatures:

• Zombies: Undead humanoids created through necromancy or other means.
• Skeletons: Undead humanoids created through necromancy or other means.
• Ghouls: Undead humanoids created through necromancy or other means.
• Ghasts: Undead humanoids created through necromancy or other means.
• Mummies: Undead humanoids created through necromancy or other means.
• Liches: Undead humanoids created through necromancy or other means.

Exceptions

Not all undead creatures are affected by Turn Undead. The following creatures are immune to Turn Undead:

• Vampires: Undead creatures that feed on the blood of the living.
• Werewolves: Undead creatures that transform into wolves during full moons.
• Wraiths: Undead creatures that are bound to a specific location or object.

Consequences of Failing the Saving Throw

If an undead creature fails its saving throw against Turn Undead, it will take the specified amount of damage and potentially be destroyed. The consequences of failing the saving throw are as follows:

• Instant Destruction: If the creature’s hit points fall to 0 or lower, it is instantly destroyed.
• Weakened State: If the creature’s hit points fall below 0, it is left in a weakened state and may be vulnerable to further attacks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Turn Undead is a powerful feature in D&D that allows clerics to destroy undead creatures. While it is effective against most undead creatures, there are some exceptions to be aware of. By understanding how Turn Undead works and its consequences, players and game masters can create a more immersive and challenging game experience.

Table: Turn Undead Damage

Table: Undead Creatures Affected

Table: Exceptions to Turn Undead

Note: The tables above are based on the D&D 5th edition Player’s Handbook and may be subject to change in future editions.