Are Fey Outsiders in Pathfinder? Unveiling the Mystical Truth

No, fey are not outsiders in Pathfinder. They are creatures of the First World, a plane distinct from the planes of alignment that outsiders hail from (like the Abyss for demons or Hell for devils). While both fey and outsiders are extraplanar creatures, their origins and inherent nature differ significantly, placing them into separate creature types within the Pathfinder rules system. Fey are intrinsically linked to the raw, untamed magic of the First World, while outsiders are tied to the fundamental forces of the Outer Planes. This distinction defines their powers, weaknesses, and their place within the Pathfinder cosmology.

Understanding Fey and Outsiders: A Deep Dive

To truly grasp the distinction between fey and outsiders, it’s crucial to understand their respective origins and how they function within the Pathfinder universe.

The Fey: Children of the First World

Fey are beings of pure magic, born from the chaotic energies of the First World. This realm is often described as a prototype for the Material Plane, a place where the raw essence of creation is still readily accessible. As such, fey are deeply connected to the natural world, embodying aspects of seasons, emotions, and primal forces. Creatures such as nymphs, pixies, and satyrs are all examples of fey, showcasing their diverse forms and abilities.

The Outsiders: Embodiments of Alignment

Outsiders, on the other hand, originate from the Outer Planes, realms that embody specific alignments like good, evil, law, or chaos. These creatures are fundamentally tied to the essence of their plane, acting as extensions of its defining principles. Demons, devils, angels, and azatas are all examples of outsiders, each representing a different facet of the aligned planes. Their motivations are often driven by the overarching goals of their home plane, making them powerful and often predictable forces.

Key Differences: Plane of Origin and Fundamental Nature

The most significant difference between fey and outsiders lies in their plane of origin. Fey are children of the First World, while outsiders are products of the Outer Planes. This distinction shapes their fundamental nature:

• Fey: Tied to nature, magic, and the raw emotions of the First World. Their motivations are often whimsical, capricious, or deeply rooted in the natural cycle.

• Outsiders: Embodiments of alignment, bound to the principles of their home plane. Their actions are typically driven by a desire to uphold or spread the ideals of their alignment.

Common Misconceptions

Many players mistakenly categorize fey as outsiders due to their shared characteristic of being extraplanar. However, it’s important to remember that the term “extraplanar” simply means that a creature originates from a plane other than the Material Plane. Both fey and outsiders fall under this umbrella, but their unique origins and natures set them apart as distinct creature types.

Another common misconception arises from the fact that some creatures can transition between types. However, fey almost always remain fey.

Pathfinder Fey: A Closer Look

Understanding fey requires exploring their unique characteristics and how they interact with the world of Pathfinder.

• Immortality: Many fey are immortal, untouched by the ravages of time. This allows them to accumulate vast knowledge and experience, making them formidable entities.

• Magic: Fey are inherently magical beings, wielding potent spells and abilities tied to the First World. Their magic often reflects their connection to nature and the emotions they embody.

• Courts: Fey society is often divided into the Seelie and Unseelie Courts, representing good and evil respectively. However, even Seelie fey can be capricious and dangerous, while Unseelie fey may possess a twisted sense of honor.

FAQs: Unveiling the Secrets of Fey and Outsiders

1. Where do fey come from in Pathfinder?

Fey originate from the First World, a prototype realm created by the gods before the Material Plane. It’s a place of raw magic and untamed nature.

2. Do outsiders age in Pathfinder?

Outsiders do not age in the same way mortals do. Instead of dying of old age, they eventually meld back into their home plane, adding their essence to it.

3. What defines an outsider in Pathfinder?

An outsider is a creature that is at least partially composed of the essence of a plane other than the Material Plane.

4. How long do fey live in Pathfinder?

Most fey are immortal, not dying from old age or after a set time. Many fey are Nature spirits and are known for their immortality.

5. Do fey live forever in the Feywild?

Fey are creatures from the Feywild, which is a parallel plane to the Material Plane. Many of them are immortal.

6. What happens when a fey dies in Pathfinder?

When a fey is “killed,” their flesh dies, but their spirit lives on, retaining memories and knowledge of self.

7. Are devils outsiders in Pathfinder?

Yes, devils are outsiders. They originate from the lawful evil plane of Hell.

8. Is an extraplanar creature automatically an outsider in Pathfinder?

No. The Extraplanar subtype simply indicates a creature is not on its native plane. Outsiders are automatically Extraplanar when not on their home plane, but not all extraplanar creatures are outsiders. Fey are Extraplanar on the Material Plane, but they are not outsiders.

9. Is an Eidolon an outsider in Pathfinder?

Yes, an eidolon is an outsider, specifically linked to its summoner.

10. Are outsiders immortal in Pathfinder?

Yes, Outsiders do not die of old age, instead they eventually meld into their home plane.

11. What race are fey in Pathfinder?

Fairy, Centaur, and Satyr are all classified as fey creatures. Elves have fey ancestry.

12. Are fey good or evil in Pathfinder?

Fey are divided into the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. Seelie fey are generally considered good, and Unseelie fey are considered evil, though both are indifferent to mortals.

13. Do outsiders breathe in Pathfinder?

Outsiders breathe, but do not need to eat or sleep (although they can). Native outsiders breathe, eat, and sleep.

14. Is a Tiefling an outsider in Pathfinder?

Tieflings are planetouched creatures with fiendish ancestry, making them native outsiders.

15. Are there vampires in Pathfinder?

Yes, vampires exist in Pathfinder. They are created when the “Vampire” template is applied to a living creature with 5 or more Hit Dice.

Conclusion: Embracing the Nuances of Pathfinder Lore

While both fey and outsiders are powerful and enigmatic creatures, their origins and inherent nature place them into distinct categories within the Pathfinder universe. Understanding these nuances is essential for creating compelling stories and engaging gameplay experiences. So, next time you encounter a mischievous pixie or a fearsome demon, remember the difference: one hails from the First World, the other from the aligned planes. And to delve deeper into the fascinating world of gaming and learning, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.