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In the fascinating world of roleplaying games and fantasy worlds, the concept of alignment is an essential element that defines characters and guides their actions. While „Lawful Evil“ is often associated with an evil but structured approach, „Neutral Evil“ describes an alignment that focuses solely on personal advantage, without regard for laws or chaos. These characters are selfish and ready to justify any action that benefits them, without following any particular moral or ethical code.
Other alignments are:
- Lawful good
- Neutral good
- Chaotic good
- Lawful Neutral
- True neutral
- Chaotic neutral
- Lawful evil
- Chaotic evil
What does Neutral Evil mean?
Neutral Evil is the alignment of characters who have no attachment to laws or the freedom of chaos, but feel committed only to their own advantage. They are willing to do whatever is necessary to achieve their goals, regardless of what consequences this has for others. These characters often act in their own interest and don’t hesitate to harm others if it benefits them. Their actions are characterized by a cold, calculating nature that doesn’t care about moral or ethical concerns.
How do you play Neutral Evil correctly?
Playing a Neutral Evil character requires deep insight into the nature of selfish and unscrupulous actions. Such characters make their decisions based on the greatest personal advantage, regardless of moral implications or social norms. A Neutral Evil character might, for example, betray a former ally without hesitation if it brings them an advantage. Likewise, they might side with whoever offers them the greatest benefits in a conflict, without regard for justice or the greater good.
Neutral Evil: Examples from Pop Culture
Neutral Evil characters can be found in various media and pop culture products.
- Petyr Baelish (Littlefinger) from „Game of Thrones“: Petyr Baelish is the perfect example of a Neutral Evil character. His actions are always aimed at expanding his own influence and power. He manipulates, lies, and deceives without regard for the consequences for others. Baelish is not bound by moral or legal rules, but acts exclusively according to his own advantage.
- Hannibal Lecter from „The Silence of the Lambs“: Hannibal Lecter is a brilliant but unscrupulous serial killer. His deeds are cruel and egocentric, using people as tools for his own needs and desires. Lecter is not constrained by moral or ethical concerns and acts completely out of self-interest.
- Voldemort from „Harry Potter“: Voldemort is a classic Neutral Evil character whose actions aim at his own power gain and immortality. He shows no loyalty to his followers and is willing to sacrifice anyone to achieve his goals. Voldemort respects no laws or moral boundaries, but follows only his own ambitions.
- Walter White from „Breaking Bad“: Walter White develops into a Neutral Evil character over the course of the series. His actions are driven by a desire for power and control, and he shows an increasing willingness to cross moral and legal boundaries to achieve his goals. Walter increasingly acts without regard for the consequences for others, as long as it benefits him.
Dealing with a Neutral Evil character as a player and Dungeon Master: Here’s how
Playing a Neutral Evil character can be challenging as it requires a balance between calculated self-interest and unscrupulous action. The greatest reward, however, lies in the freedom such characters have to pursue their goals without being bound by moral or ethical limits. They offer a rich source for dramatic and unexpected twists in a story and can decisively influence the game through their unpredictable actions.
Neutral Evil is a fascinating alignment that offers players the opportunity to explore characters motivated by pure selfishness and unscrupulousness. Through their complete independence from moral or ethical principles, they offer a unique perspective on the world and its conflicts. Playing a Neutral Evil character means exploring the boundaries of unscrupulousness and offers an exciting opportunity for profound character development and complex narratives.
Even with a Neutral Evil character, there are limits. As a player or Dungeon Master, you should clarify how far the character can go before it becomes overly disruptive or problematic for the roleplaying group. Certain actions, such as arbitrarily killing innocent people, can negatively affect the game. It’s important to stick to the game rules and common sense.
I personally think Neutral Evil characters are actually quite good in a campaign because they offer great roleplaying opportunities and trigger moral conflicts. This way the story doesn’t stray too far from the path. However, I think Neutral Evil characters fit better in an evil party than in a good one. This way you preventively avoid conflicts.
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