Tieflings are a fascinating and complex race in Dungeons & Dragons, often shrouded in an aura of mystery and shadiness. Their infernal origins and ability to excel in a variety of roles make them a popular choice among players. In this article, we take a deep dive into the history, characteristics, and cultural significance of Tieflings.
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History and origin of Tieflings
Tieflings have their roots in the dark world of demons and devils. Their ancestors made dark pacts with diabolical forces, giving birth to their descendants, the Tieflings, with a touch of the infernal. This devilish ancestry not only shapes their appearance, but also their abilities and nature.
Outer appearance
Tieflings are immediately recognizable by their devilish features. The most common features include:
- Horns: These can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from elegant, curved horns to short, stubby horns.
- Tail: Tieflings usually have a long, thin tail, which gives them extra balance and can sometimes be used as a tool.
- Eyes: Their eyes can have a solid glow or a uniform color with no visible iris or pupil.
- Skin color: The skin colors of Tieflings vary greatly and can take on red, blue, purple or even gray tones.
- Teeth and claws: Some Tieflings have sharp teeth and claws that further emphasize their infernal origins.
Racial Traits of Tieflings
Tieflings possess unique traits and abilities that set them apart from other races. Here are some of the most important characteristics:
- Attribute Enhancement: Tieflings receive a +2 bonus to Charisma and +1 to Intelligence. This reflects their natural presence and sharp mind.
- Age: Tieflings reach maturity at the same age as humans and can live up to 100 years.
- Alignment: Although Tieflings are often viewed with suspicion because of their infernal origins, they are not necessarily evil. Many of them actively fight against their dark origins.
- Size: Tieflings are about the same height as humans, ranging from 1.50 to 1.80 meters.
- Base Speed: Their base speed is 9 meters (30 ft).
- Darkvision: Tieflings can see in the dark up to a distance of 18 meters (60 ft), as if it were dim light.
- Infernal Resistance: Tieflings are resistant to fire damage, reflecting their infernal origins.
- Infernal Legacy: Tieflings automatically master the cantrip Thaumaturgy and gain the ability to cast Hellish Rebuke once per long rest from 3rd level. From 5th level, they can cast Darkness once per long rest. These spells are based on their Charisma.
Cultural significance and society
Tieflings often find it difficult to find their place in the world. Their devilish appearance often leads to prejudice and mistrust, even in open-minded societies. Despite these challenges, many Tieflings have found their way and established themselves in various societies.
Tieflings are often loners who live in the shadows of society. However, there are also communities of Tieflings who stick together and cultivate their own culture. These communities are often close-knit and support each other against external hostilities.
Famous Tieflings
In the world of Dungeons & Dragons, there are many famous Tieflings who have played major roles in campaigns and stories. One well-known example is Zariel, a former mortal who rose to become an archangel and eventually became the ruler of Avernus, the first level of the Nine Hells. Her story is one of rise and fall, power and corruption and she can be seen on the cover of the book Descent into Avernus 🛒.
Fans of Critical Role should also be familiar with Jester Lavorre and Mollymauk Tealeaf. They are the characters of Laura Bailey and Taliesin Jaffe from the second season and represent two very different versions of Tieflings.
Conclusion
Tieflings are a deep and diverse race, offering players many opportunities to create interesting and complex characters. Their connection to the infernal forces and their constant search for a place in the world make them an intriguing choice for any campaign.
If you want to learn more about other races in Dungeons & Dragons, check out our overview of the races in D&D here.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Tieflings in Dungeons & Dragons, highlighting their origins, characteristics and cultural significance. May it help you to make your next Tiefling character even more fascinating!
