Dungeons and Dragons is a game that allows players to create their own characters, and one of the most popular choices is the tiefling fighter. Tieflings are half-human, half-fiend creatures with horns, tails, and other demonic features. They are often feared and distrusted by other races but can also be powerful and fearsome warriors. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a well-written Tiefling fighter that is fun to play and valuable in and out of combat. Let’s get started!
Characteristics of a Tiefling
Tieflings are typically tall and slender, with pale skin, horns, a tail, and eyes without pupils. They have red or black eyes, and their hair can be any color. Tieflings draw these traits from their fiendish, demonic, or devilish heritage. Luckily their ancestry grants them darkvision in addition to a few other characteristics. Tieflings are often intelligent and charismatic but can also be arrogant and impulsive. When creating a Tiefling Fighter, remember these traits to create a unique and memorable character.
Ability Score Increase
Your Intelligence score increases by 1, and your Charisma score increases by 2.Darkvision
Thanks to your infernal heritage, you have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.Hellish Resistance
You have resistance to fire damage.Infernal Legacy
Player’s Handbook
You know the thaumaturgy cantrip. When you reach 3rd level, you can cast the hellish rebuke spell as a 2nd-level spell once with this trait and regain the ability to do so when you finish a long rest. When you reach 5th level, you can cast the darkness spell once with this trait and regain the ability to do so when you finish a long rest. Charisma is your spellcasting ability for these spells.
Characteristics of a Fighter
Fighters are skilled warriors who specialize in combat of all kinds. They are proficient in various weapons and armor and can take a lot of punishment. Fighters are often the backbone of a party, and they can be a valuable asset in any battle. Because Fighters are proficient with various weapons, they can comfortably engage in most combat encounters and provide support. They can also access special abilities like action surge and second wind. When creating a Fighter, consider how they approach combat and what weapons and armor they prefer.
Proficiencies
Armor: All armor, shields
Player’s Handbook
Weapons: Simple weapons, martial weapons
Tools: None
Saving Throws: Strength, Constitution
Skills: Choose two skills from Acrobatics, Animal Handling, Athletics, History, Insight, Intimidation, Perception, and Survival
Why Make a Tiefling Fighter?
There are a lot of reasons to make a tiefling fighter. Tieflings are unique and interesting creatures and can add flavor to your D&D table. They are also mighty warriors and can be a valuable asset to any party. Above all, a Tiefling Fighter can bring a unique dynamic to your D&D game. Their demonic ancestry can make them an outsider in certain situations. Still, their natural charisma can make them powerful allies as well. Tieflings also have access to special abilities, such as hellish rebuke, which allows them to deal damage to enemies who have hurt them. Finally, a Tiefling Fighter can provide a memorable and interesting character for your game in combat and roleplay situations.
Recommended Backgrounds
Many different backgrounds would be suitable for a tiefling fighter. Some good options include:
- Criminal: Tieflings are often outcasts and may have turned to a life of crime to survive.
- Soldier: Tieflings are naturally gifted warriors who may have served in the military before becoming adventurers.
- Outlander: Tieflings may have come from a remote or dangerous land and may be used to living off the land.
When creating your fighter, explain every aspect of their back story. Tieflings are often seen as outsiders, so they may have grown up in a different culture or been raised on the streets. Writing a back story that shows why your character acts in specific ways or how they regard the life they are living now provides the best opportunity for a strong personality.
Equipment Choices
When choosing equipment for your tiefling fighter, there are some things to remember:
- Weapons: Fighters are proficient in various weapons, so you can choose whatever you like. Some good options include swords, axes, and hammers.
- Armor: Fighters can wear any armor, but they may prefer lighter armor that allows them to move more freely.
- Other Equipment: Consider carrying potions, scrolls, and magic weapons.
Because Fighters have access to a wide range of weapons and armor, consider which weapons and armor fit your character’s style and background. Also, remember that Tieflings are known for their charisma, so a sword or a crossbow may fit their style more than a hammer. When choosing armor, consider the primary fighting style of the character, whether you use Strength or Dexterity more. Don’t sacrifice stealth and mobility for more formidable armor if you don’t have to.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Tiefling Fighters
Tiefling fighters have several strengths and weaknesses.
Some of their strengths include:
- Powerful: Tiefling fighters are naturally gifted warriors who can be mighty in combat.
- Charismatic: Tieflings are often intelligent and charismatic, which can be helpful in social situations.
- Unique: Tieflings are unique and fascinating creatures, which can help make your character memorable, primarily due to their ability to cast Hellish Rebuke.
Some of their weaknesses include:
- Feared: Tieflings are often feared and mistrusted by other races, making it difficult to make friends and allies.
- Impulsive: Tieflings can be arrogant and impulsive, leading them into trouble.
More than anything, try to tie your character’s backstory into these strengths and weaknesses, which will provide a much richer gameplay experience.
Best Subclasses for Tiefling Fighters
Many different subclasses would be suitable for a tiefling fighter. Some good options include:
- Battle Master: Battle Masters are skilled tacticians who can use their maneuvers to gain an advantage in combat.
- Eldritch Knight: Eldritch Knights are fighters who have learned to cast spells. This can give them a significant advantage in combat.
- Champion: Champions are simple, straightforward fighters who excel at dealing with damage.
When creating your Tiefling Fighter, consider which subclass fits their style and history. For example, choose Eldritch Knight if your character has an affinity for magic. On the other hand, if your character has studied every martial art, then select Battle Master. Whatever you choose, allow the story to guide you while optimizing for combat to always be an asset.
Roleplaying a Tiefling Fighter
When roleplaying a tiefling fighter, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Be aware of your heritage: Tieflings are often feared and mistrusted by other races. This can make it harder for your character to make friends and allies.
- Be proud of your heritage: Tieflings are unique and different. Don’t feel ashamed of who you are.
- Be confident: Tieflings are naturally gifted warriors. Use your strength and power to protect those who cannot defend themselves (unless you are evil).
Also, consider the backstory and how it affects your character’s personality. For example, tieflings are often seen as outsiders, making them guarded or defensive. However, their charisma can also make them influential leaders or negotiators. Consider how their demonic ancestry affects their behavior, how they act around other characters in your game, and how they view their ancestry.
Tiefling fighters are powerful and versatile characters who can be valuable assets to any party. If you want a unique and exciting character to play, a tiefling fighter is a great option. While creating your character, remember to emphasize the uniqueness of your character. Let their backstory shine through everything they do, and remember to use all your skills against the monsters you face.