Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Smitte?
An Oathbreaker Paladin can indeed smite, but with a twist: instead of using the traditional Divine Smite, they have access to an Unholy Smite that deals necrotic damage to the target. This Unholy Smite is a unique feature of the Oathbreaker Paladin subclass, replacing the standard Divine Smite and offering a distinct playstyle for those who choose this path.
Understanding Oathbreaker Paladins
Oathbreaker Paladins are a unique subclass of paladins who have broken their sacred oaths, often to pursue a darker or more sinister path. As a result, they lose access to certain abilities and features, but gain new ones that reflect their changed allegiance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Abilities Do Oathbreaker Paladins Lose?
Oathbreaker Paladins lose access to Spellcasting, Divine Sense, Lay on Hands, Divine Smite, Aura of Protection, Aura of Courage, Cleansing Touch, and any features specific to their original Oath.
2. Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Have a God?
While Oathbreaker Paladins have broken their oaths, they can still choose to serve a god or a higher power, but this is not required and may depend on the specific campaign setting and DM discretion.
3. What Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Do?
Oathbreaker Paladins have access to unique features such as Steep an enemy in darkness and Control over an undead creature, making them a formidable opponent on the battlefield.
4. What is the Downside of Being an Oathbreaker?
As an Oathbreaker, you lose access to your original class features and subclass features, which are replaced with Spiteful Suffering and Dreadful Aspect, although you can pay a large fee to recover your original features.
5. Who is the Most Powerful Paladin?
The most powerful paladin can depend on various factors, including the campaign setting and DM discretion, but some notable paladins include Turalyon, Tirion Fordring, and Uther the Lightbringer.
6. Do Oathbreaker Paladins Still Have Smite?
Oathbreaker Paladins replace their Divine Smite with an Unholy Smite, which deals necrotic damage to the target, and may also gain access to other smite spells such as Searing Smite and Branding Smite.
7. Can You Play a Good Oathbreaker Paladin?
While Oathbreaker Paladins are often associated with evil or neutral alignments, it is possible to play a good Oathbreaker Paladin who seeks redemption or has a complex backstory.
8. Why Would a Paladin Become an Oathbreaker?
A paladin may become an Oathbreaker to pursue a dark ambition or serve an evil power, or to break free from the constraints of their original oath and explore new possibilities.
9. Do Oathbreaker Paladins Have to be Evil?
No, Oathbreaker Paladins do not have to be evil, although they often are, and can instead be neutral or even good depending on the campaign setting and DM discretion.
10. What is the Best Feat for an Oathbreaker Paladin?
The best feat for an Oathbreaker Paladin can depend on their build and playstyle, but Great Weapon Master is a popular choice for its ability to deal massive damage.
11. Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Heal?
As an Oathbreaker, you still have access to healing spells and abilities, including Lay on Hands, although your ability to heal may be limited by your spell slots and class features.
12. Can an Oathbreaker Paladin Take a New Oath?
It is possible for an Oathbreaker Paladin to atone and take a new oath, although this would require DM approval and may involve significant roleplaying and backstory changes.
13. Can a Paladin Heal Himself?
Yes, a paladin can heal himself using Lay on Hands or other healing spells, making them a durable and self-sufficient class.
14. Does Your Oathbreaker Count as a Commander?
In certain campaign settings or homebrew games, an Oathbreaker may be considered a commander or leader, although this would depend on the specific rules and setting.
15. What is the Best Paladin Subclass?
The best paladin subclass can depend on the campaign setting and playstyle, but popular choices include Oath of Vengeance, Oath of Conquest, and Oathbreaker, each offering unique features and abilities.