An Introduction To The Tiefling Race in Dungeons and Dragons 5e

The Dual Legacy of the Tiefling

At a cursory glance, Tieflings might pass off as humans, given their ancestry linked to human bloodlines. Yet, the infernal signature of their lineage is unmistakably etched in their distinct appearance. Blending human with hints of the netherworld, they straddle two realms with their unique features.

Horns: The Crown of the Tiefling

Central to a Tiefling's identity is the array of horns crowning their heads. No two tieflings sport identical horns; they vary enormously:

• Ram-Inspired Horns: These curl around their heads reminiscent of the majestic ram.

• Gazelle-Esque Horns: Tall and straight, these horns exude elegance.

• Antelope-Like Horns: Spiraling skyward, these horns add to their mystique.

Otherworldly Physical Features

• Prehensile Tails: Spanning four to five feet, these tails coil tensely when emotions run high.

• Eyes That Mesmerize: Void of the typical sclera or pupil, their eyes are a canvas of stark colors, from the abyssal black to the ethereal gold.

• Skin and Tiefling Hair Palette: While the Tiefling skin ranges from typical human shades to fiery reds, their hair cascades in dark, rich colors like midnight blue and deep purple.

• Age: Tieflings mature just as quickly as humans; live slightly longer than humans.

• Size: Comparable to humans, Medium.

• Speed: Base walking speed is 30 feet.

Beyond Appearances: The notable tieflings Moral Compass

Contrary to the notion that their lineage predetermines their nature, are not bound to be malevolent. Their infernal heritage might cast a shadow, but the choice to embrace light or darkness remains theirs. However, societal bias nudges some towards rebellion, making them lean into the stereotype.

Navigating a World of Distrust: The Tiefling's Resilience

Often marginalized, Tieflings are predominantly city dwellers. They find refuge in bustling human settlements, particularly in pockets where society's rules blur. Given their circumstances:

• Life in the Fringes: Many emerge as shrewd traders, adept thieves, or even underworld dons.

• Seeking Community: At times, they cluster with other minorities, finding solace in shared experiences and mutual respect.

In the absence of a homeland, the adage 'survival of the fittest' rings especially true for Tieflings. This has shaped their persona: wary, self-reliant, and discerning in trust. Yet, once trust is established, a Tiefling's loyalty becomes an unbreakable bond.

In essence, Tieflings, with their bewitching features and complex personalities, enrich the tapestry of the fantastical realms they inhabit. Far from mere caricatures of evil, they are a testament to the intricate dance between nature, nurture, and free will.

Languages: Fluent in both Common and infernal language.

Basic Tiefling Traits

Ability Score Increases: Intelligence increases by 1, Charisma score increases by 2.

Magical Abilities:

• Darkvision: The fiery blood that runs through their veins grants them superior vision in low-light conditions. They can see as clearly in dim light as if it was fully lit and can navigate darkness as though it was just a shadow. However, the nuances of color elude them in the dark, and they perceive everything in gradients of gray.

• Hellish Resistance: The legacy offers them resilience against flames, bestowing upon them resistance to fire damage.

• Infernal Legacy: The magic of their lineage manifests in several ways:

  • From the onset, they have access to the thaumaturgy cantrip, a small sign of their inherent magical prowess.

  • By the time they reach their 3rd level, they can harness the power of the hellish rebuke spell as a 2nd-level spell. However, this power must be replenished with a long rest after each use.

  • Advancing to their 5th level, the darkness spell becomes available to them. Similar to hellish rebuke, this spell requires a long rest to be reused. The source of their magic, Charisma serves as their spellcasting ability for these spells.

Tiefling 5e subraces

The myriad subraces of Tieflings are a testament to the vast infernal influence that taints their lineage, each subrace bearing the mark of a different infernal entity. One of the key sources of information on Tiefling subraces is the book "Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes," which delves into the lore and mechanics of these variant Tieflings. This tome explores the background of each subrace, shedding light on their distinct traits, powers, and the infernal legacies they inherit.

Asmodeus Tiefling: An Integral Chapter in Dungeons and Dragons' Lore

Descendants of the archdevil Asmodeus, supreme ruler of the Nine Hells, Asmodeus tieflings symbolize a vital tiefling subrace in DnD. Their infernal heritage, traced to the fiery pits of the Nine Hells, brings to the fore unique tiefling traits tieflings share, melded with the ever-enigmatic abyssal tieflings.

A Dive into Tiefling Traits and Racial Spells

Tiefling Race Intellect & Charisma: Asmodeus tieflings uniquely blend with an ability score increases to Intelligence and potent charisma. An attribute most tieflings harbor, their legacy often dictates their spellcasting ability, emphasizing charisma for certain racial traits and spells.

Racial Traits and Magic:

• Thaumaturgy (1st Level): A prime example of the tiefling race's infernal legacy trait, this cantrip serves multiple purposes in role-playing scenarios.

• Hellish Rebuke (3rd Level): A racial spell exemplifying the hellish resistance many tieflings tend to showcase. This reactionary magic reflects threats with significant damage, a testament to a tiefling's unsavory ancestry.

• Darkness (5th Level): Engulfing areas in a shadow, this spell, intrinsic to the tiefling traits tieflings share, demands strategic application. Especially vital when fellow adventurers can't discern color in dark and dim conditions.

The tiefling bloodlines, each unique in its racial traits and capabilities, offer a rich tapestry for players to explore. From the spells of the fierna tiefling to the devil's tongue ability of other tiefling subraces, the choices are vast and varied. And amidst this vast landscape, the Asmodeus tiefling remains an emblematic figure, providing a foundation upon which countless tiefling characters are built in the 4th edition and beyond.

The Baalzebul Tiefling: A Unique Heritage in Dungeons and Dragons

The Baalzebul Tiefling emerges as a unique tiefling subrace in the vast landscape of DnD. Drawing its lineage from the archdevil Baalzebul, known for his masterful corruption, the Baalzebul Tiefling has a deep connection to the deteriorating layer of the Nine Hells, Maladomini. This tiefling subrace offers players a nuanced understanding of the tiefling race and the varying traits tieflings share.

Baalzebul Tiefling Attributes and Racial Spells

• Ability Score Increase: This tiefling variant showcases an intelligence score increase, which, when combined with the tiefling's inherent charisma, might appear unorthodox. Most spellcasting tiefling characters, be they tiefling warlock or tiefling paladin, generally lean on one ability score and disregard the other, making this combination less sought-after.

• Legacy of Maladomini: An infernale legacy unique to this tiefling subrace, the Legacy of Maladomini outlines specific racial spells rooted in the art of corruption:

  • Thaumaturgy (1st Level): While not as versatile as minor illusion or prestidigitation, it stands its ground in role-play scenarios.

  • Ray of Sickness (3rd Level): A spell that may not boast high damage, but its poisoned condition is debilitating. It is essential to be aware of creatures immune to this condition, such as Constructs, Fiends, or Undead.

  • Crown of Madness (5th Level): A formidable spell given its level, yet it comes with specific limitations that require strategic application.

Dispater Tiefling: Masters of Deception in Dungeons and Dragons

The realm of DnD unfurls yet another captivating tiefling subrace: the Dispater Tiefling. Intricately tied to Dispater, an archdevil renowned for his prowess in intrigue and stealth, these tieflings embody the essence of subterfuge. Their own fiendish blood and heritage traces back to the shadowy corridors of Dis, where secrets and conspiracies thrive.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of the Dispater Tiefling

• Ability Score Increase: Dispater Tieflings inherit an uncanny agility, receiving a boost to their Dexterity. This enhancement proves invaluable for Charisma-based casters, especially those without the luxury of heavy armor. The increased dexterity bolsters not just their armor class but also their prowess in stealth and nimbleness during dexterity saves.

• Legacy of Dis: The spells inherited by Dispater Tieflings are less about brute force and more about cunning and guile:

  • Thaumaturgy (1st Level): While its capabilities might seem overshadowed by spells like minor illusion or prestidigitation, Thaumaturgy holds its weight in specific role-playing situations.

  • Disguise Self (3rd Level): An exemplary spell for those wishing to seamlessly blend in or assume a different identity. Perfect for infiltrating or evading capture.

  • Detect Thoughts (5th Level): A crucial asset for those seeking the unspoken truths. Whether prying into the minds during interrogations or discerning concealed foes in one's vicinity, this spell provides a profound advantage.

Fierna Tiefling: Manipulators of the Infernal Descent

Within the annals of DnD, the Fierna Tiefling stands out as a subrace uniquely gifted in the art of persuasion and influence. These tieflings are a testament to their ancestry, tracing back to the archdevil Fierna, a mastermind of manipulation and guile.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of the Fierna Tiefling

• Ability Score Increase: Fierna Tieflings possess an innate wisdom, gaining a +1 to their Wisdom score. This unique bonus to WIS sets them apart from most tieflings, aligning seamlessly with their high Charisma. A Fierna Tiefling's ability scores are often optimized for manipulation, making them particularly formidable in social situations.

• Legacy of Phlegethos: Fierna Tieflings inherit a suite of charm spells that can turn the tides of any negotiation or confrontation:

  • Friends (1st Level): While this spell grants an advantage on Charisma checks, it comes with a significant catch. The spell's aftereffect, which renders the target hostile, can pose risks. It's best wielded cautiously, in situations like swift bartering or interrogation, where the repercussions can be managed.

  • Charm Person (3rd Level): A potent tool in a Fierna Tiefling's arsenal, this spell shines in situations demanding immediate influence over NPCs. However, the aftermath, wherein the charmed individual realizes they were under a spell, can be a double-edged sword.

  • Suggestion (5th Level): The power to subtly guide actions is invaluable. A well-timed suggestion can open paths otherwise unimaginable, like convincing guards to relinquish keys or persuading a mark to reveal a coveted secret.

Glasya Tiefling: The Beguiling Offspring of Infernal Descent

DnD introduces us to the Glasya Tiefling, an entrancing subrace that boasts beauty and stealth in equal measure. Their lineage is one of significant distinction, descending from Glasya, the youngest of the archdevils and the cherished daughter of the notorious Asmodeus. Their innate charm and dexterity make them formidable adversaries and allies in the game.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of the Glasya Tiefling

• Ability Score Increase: Gifted with a +1 bonus to Dexterity on top of their natural charisma, Glasya Tieflings are primed for roles that demand agility and charm. This combination perfectly aligns with characters who rely on both stealth and charisma-based spellcasting or those who employ dexterity in melee combat.

• Legacy of Malbolge: This legacy grants Glasya Tieflings a remarkable suite of spells tailor-made for espionage and trickery:

  • Minor Illusion (1st Level): This cantrip is a testament to the saying that creativity trumps raw power. In the hands of an imaginative spellcaster, Minor Illusion becomes an invaluable utility, offering countless solutions to challenges.

  • Disguise Self (3rd Level): As with the Dispater Tiefling, Glasya's descendants have access to this masterful spell of deception. Its applications in covert operations are limitless.

  • Invisibility (5th Level): A quintessential spell for subterfuge, Invisibility allows Glasya Tieflings to move unseen, bypassing guards, barriers, and prying eyes with ease.

Levistus Tiefling: Wardens of the Frozen Descent

Emerging from the chilling annals of Dungeons and Dragons, Levistus Tieflings are a formidable breed born of the icy abyss of Stygia. Their lineage is a unique tale of power and confinement, tracing back to the archdevil Levistus, ensnared within an unforgiving iceberg in the fifth layer of hell. A perfect blend of resilience and frosty magic makes them stalwart defenders and formidable foes.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of the Levistus Tiefling

• Ability Score Increase: Levistus Tieflings are toughened by the cold climes of their ancestry, and this is reflected in their +1 bonus to Constitution. This enhancement is beneficial for almost any class or build, providing added hit points and a boost to constitution saving throws, a common and important save.

• Legacy of Stygia: Levistus Tieflings are imbued with spells that echo the chilling winds and profound darkness of Stygia:

  • Ray of Frost (1st Level): A reliable damage-dealing cantrip, Ray of Frost not only harms foes but also slows their approach, making it valuable for maintaining distance or protecting more vulnerable allies.

  • Armor of Agathys (3rd Level): This spell serves dual purposes. It not only provides the caster with temporary hit points but also retaliates against melee attackers with cold damage. It's an exemplary defensive spell, embodying the icy resilience of Stygia.

  • Darkness (5th Level): By engulfing an area in pitch blackness, this spell can disrupt enemy strategies, provide cover, or facilitate a hasty retreat. While it blankets both allies and foes in its shadow, it's most potent when paired with abilities or features that can pierce through magical darkness.

Mammon Tiefling: Magnates of Mercantile Magics

Within the infernal hierarchy, Mammon, the Archduke of Greed, reigns over Minauros, the third layer of the Nine Hells. It's a murky, swamped realm where the greedy drown for eternity. Mammon Tieflings, with their insatiable appetite for wealth and knack for arcane fineries, are the very embodiment of their progenitor's covetous nature. While they may not be the most formidable in direct confrontations, their set of skills allows for peculiar utilities that can make them indispensable in certain scenarios.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of the Mammon Tiefling

• Ability Score Increase: With a keen mind for wealth accumulation and complex deals, Mammon Tieflings gain a +1 bonus to Intelligence. While this may not synergize perfectly with the typical charismatic nature of them, it can be beneficial for classes like wizards, artificers, or even certain arcane trickster rogues.

• Legacy of Minauros: The spell list for Mammon emphasizes practicality, utility, and safeguarding possessions:

  • Mage Hand (1st Level): The spectral hand offers myriad uses, from safely triggering traps to procuring items from a distance. Its utility is only limited by a player's creativity.

  • Tenser’s Floating Disk (3rd Level): For those expeditions laden with treasure or heavy cargo, this spell provides an invaluable service. It's the merchant's or treasure hunter's best friend, ensuring that no loot gets left behind.

  • Arcane Lock (5th Level): A symbol of Mammon's penchant for hoarding, this spell provides robust security to safeguard treasures, secret chambers, or even entryways. While not the flashiest of spells, it provides peace of mind in a world teeming with thieves and intruders.

Mephistopheles Tiefling: Conjurers of the Cold Hellfire

Mephistopheles is a master of contradiction. While Cania, the eighth layer of the Nine Hells, is a frozen wasteland, its ruler is an expert in the conjuration and control of infernal flames. Mephistopheles Tieflings are an embodiment of this dichotomy, pairing the calculating intellect of their archdevil progenitor with the wild and destructive powers of hellfire.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of the Mephistopheles Tiefling

• Ability Score Increases: Reflecting the cunning and arcane expertise of Mephistopheles himself, these Tieflings gain a +1 bonus to Intelligence. While many focus on charisma-based spellcasting, this intelligence boost is an acknowledgment of the archdevil's status as the foremost arcane scholar of the Nine Hells. It can be particularly beneficial for wizards or eldritch knights.

• Legacy of Cania: The spell list for Mephistopheles Tieflings showcases their paradoxical nature—intellect combined with fiery force:

  • Mage Hand (1st Level): A universally useful spell, Mage Hand demonstrates the more intellectual side of these. It's perfect for manipulating objects from a safe distance or for solving intricate puzzles.

  • Burning Hands (3rd Level): Unleashing the raw fury of hellfire, this spell is a manifestation of the Tiefling's lineage. It can engulf foes in scorching flames, ideal for when enemies crowd in too close.

  • Flame Blade (5th Level): This spell is a conundrum, much like Mephistopheles himself. Though it might not be the most optimal choice for many spellcasters, its thematic tie to the archdevil's mastery of fire makes it a fitting addition. In the right situation, it can also be a surprise weapon, catching foes off guard.

Zariel Tiefling: The Warrior of the Infernal Realms

Zariel, the ruler of the first layer of the Nine Hells, Avernus, is a figure of contradictions. Once a celestial, she fell from grace due to her obsession with warfare and battle. Zariel Tieflings channel the relentless combat prowess of their forebear, making them exceptional contenders on the battlefield.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of the Zariel Tiefling

• Ability Score Increase: These inherit the physical might of Zariel, with a +1 bonus to Strength. This uncommon blend of charisma and strength sets them apart, turning them into formidable frontline combatants or leaders in battle.

• Legacy of Avernus: Their spell list is a testament to their heritage, emphasizing martial prowess and divine wrath:

  • Thaumaturgy (1st Level): While perhaps not as versatile as other cantrips, Thaumaturgy can be a powerful tool in the hands of a savvy player, offering a range of effects that can intimidate foes or divert attention.

  • Searing Smite (3rd Level): This spell burns with the fury of the Nine Hells. While it might not guarantee consistent damage due to its reliance on saving throws, when it sticks, it can prove devastating, particularly against foes with weaker constitutions.

  • Branding Smite (5th Level): A beacon against those who lurk in the shadows, this spell can be a game-changer against invisible or ethereal enemies, ensuring that no foe can escape the Tiefling's wrath.

Variant Tiefling: The Marked by the Hells

The Variant Tieflings represent the diverse nature of the legacy. Not all Tieflings carry the mark of Asmodeus. These variants bring unique traits and abilities that set them apart from their more common kin.

Attributes and Racial Abilities of a Variant Tiefling

• Devil’s Tongue: This variant leans into the manipulative and deceptive nature of the infernal lineage.

  • Vicious Mockery (1st Level): A favorite among bards, this cantrip not only deals psychic damage but also imposes a disadvantage on the target's next attack roll, making it great for characters who anticipate being in social intrigue or manipulating situations.

  • Charm Person (3rd Level): Allows you to temporarily sway someone to your side. Its drawback is that the target realizes they were charmed afterward. Nevertheless, it's a powerful tool in social situations.

  • Enthrall (5th Level): Although not the most effective spell in the repertoire, it can divert attention away from allies.

• Feral: Representing a more primal, raw form of the Tiefling, the Feral variant prioritizes dexterity and intelligence. This combination is perfect for roles like the Bladesinger, Arcane Trickster, or Eldritch Knight, which benefit from both these stats.

• Hellfire: Swaps out some traditional Tiefling spells. The choice between hellish rebuke and burning hands is largely a matter of individual playstyle, offering a balanced approach to damage.

• Winged: Sacrificing some innate spellcasting power for the gift of flight, this variant is particularly powerful. The ability to fly gives a Tiefling unparalleled mobility, granting tactical advantages in combat, exploration, and role-playing scenarios. It's an exceptional choice for any class or build, but especially those who can capitalize on the mobility.

Tiefling Classes (Default Rules)

Artificer:

Tieflings, particularly those of the Glasya, Levistus, and Mammon subraces, can excel as Artificers due to their innate abilities and subrace traits. The Glasya subrace can be great for a sneaky Artificer, while Levistus and Mammon offer options for front-line and utility-focused builds, respectively. The Winged variant of Tiefling could provide an advantage in ranged combat situations due to the ability to fly​.

Barbarian:

Barbarians might find it challenging to integrate the Tiefling's innate spellcasting power due to their raging mechanic. However, the Winged variant is considered beneficial as it allows flight while wearing medium armor, providing a unique advantage in mobility on the battlefield​.

Bard:

Bards benefit from the Charisma-based spellcasting of Tieflings. Almost any subrace works well for Bards, with the Winged variant also being an attractive option for players looking for additional mobility or versatility. The dark ancestry of Tieflings can add a flavorful narrative twist to a Bard character, especially in a heavy metal bard build that combines the heritage with the musical prowess of the Bard class​.

Cleric:

The Glasya subrace is recommended for Trickery domain Clerics, while Mammon offers utility options that suit Arcana domain Clerics. The Winged variant is also beneficial as it allows for increased mobility, which could be particularly useful for Clerics who engage in combat from a distance​.

Druid:

While Charisma-based spellcasting isn't ideal for Druids, certain subraces like Glasya and the Winged variant can provide some advantages, either through their unique spells or flight ability.

Fighter:

Fighters, especially those focusing on ranged combat, could benefit from the Winged variant of infernal tieflings due to the flying ability. The Glasya and Levistus subraces are also noted as good options for integrating Charisma-based innate spellcasting into a Fighter build​.

Monk:

The Glasya subrace is identified as a strong option for Monks. However, Monks generally don't benefit as much from the innate spellcasting power of Tieflings due to their focus on physical combat and mobility​.

Paladin:

Paladins are often highlighted as one of the best class choices for Tieflings, especially the Zariel subrace. The Bloodline of Zariel is especially potent for a melee-focused Tiefling Paladin due to its Strength and Charisma bonus, which is ideal for Paladin's smite spells and other abilities​.

Ranger:

The Winged variant is again noted as a good option for ranged builds, while the Glasya and Levistus subraces can provide some spellcasting advantages. The innate spellcasting power can also be utilized to enhance the Ranger's combat and utility spells.

Rogue:

The Glasya subrace can provide early access to spells that suit the Arcane Trickster Rogue, while Levistus provides access to Darkness. The Winged variant is a solid choice for ranged builds, providing a unique advantage in mobility.

Sorcerer:

Almost any subrace of Tiefling can be a good fit for Sorcerers due to the Charisma-based spellcasting. The Draconic Bloodline Sorcerer build, for example, fits well with the infernal nature of Tieflings, enhancing the fiery thematic link between them.

Warlock:

All versions of Tieflings can work well as Warlocks, thanks to their Charisma-based spellcasting power. Hexblade Warlocks or those with the Fiend Patron particularly synergize well with Tieflings, creating thematic and mechanically harmonious characters​.

Wizard:

While the innate spellcasting of Tieflings is Charisma-based, subraces like Glasya, Mammon, and the Winged variant are highlighted as good options for Wizards. The additional spells and flight ability can provide a Wizard with more utility cast spells, and versatility in combat.

Which 5e Classes Work With Tieflings?

Tieflings in Dungeons and Dragons 5e synergize well with classes that leverage their innate Charisma and Intelligence bonuses. Sorcerers, Warlocks, and Bards benefit significantly from the Charisma bonus for spellcasting, with thematic ties to the infernal heritage of Tieflings also enriching the narrative aspect of these classes. Paladins, particularly of the Zariel Tiefling subrace, benefit from both the Charisma bonus for spellcasting and the Strength bonus for martial prowess. Additionally, while Wizards use Intelligence for spellcasting, the innate spellcasting abilities and the Intelligence bonus of Tieflings can complement a Wizard’s spellbook, making Tieflings a viable choice for this class as well.

What are the benefits of a tiefling?

Tieflings in Dungeons and Dragons 5e benefit from innate spellcasting abilities, gaining spells like Thaumaturgy, Hellish Rebuke, and Darkness as they level up. They receive a bonus to their Charisma and Intelligence scores, aiding classes reliant on these abilities for spellcasting or other features. Their infernal heritage provides a rich narrative foundation, resistance to fire damage, and diverse subrace options for further customization. Additionally, Tieflings have darkvision, allowing them to see in darkness up to 60 feet, and their unique appearance and heritage offer versatile role-playing opportunities, enriching the gameplay with engaging character arcs and interactions.

What is the personality of a tiefling?

Tieflings in Dungeons and Dragons 5e often bear a complex personality shaped by their infernal heritage and the societal prejudices they encounter. They may exhibit a sense of independence, resilience, or self-reliance born from facing discrimination or mistrust. Some may embrace their infernal roots, showcasing a mischievous, cunning, or rebellious demeanor, while others might reject this heritage, striving for goodness, acceptance, or a sense of belonging. Their personalities can span a wide spectrum, with individual tiefling character having their own unique traits and characteristics, much like any other race in DnD. The game encourages players to craft their Tiefling characters' personalities to suit the narrative and character development within their campaigns.

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