Unleash the Dark Power Within: A Guide to the Best Oathbreaker Paladin Build in 5e

20 May 2024

The paladin, a bastion of holy might and unwavering righteousness, stands as a symbol of hope against the encroaching darkness. But what happens when that light is extinguished, consumed by the shadows it once swore to vanquish? The Oathbreaker Paladin emerges from this fall, a testament to the seductive allure of power and the devastating consequences of broken vows. This guide delves into the intricacies of creating the most formidable Oathbreaker Paladin build in Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition, equipping you with the knowledge to command the battlefield through fear and might.

From the moment a paladin forsakes their sacred oaths, they embark upon a path shrouded in shadow and steeped in forbidden power. Driven by ambition, vengeance, or the corrupting influence of dark forces, these fallen champions become instruments of destruction, wielding their divine gifts for nefarious ends. While their fall from grace carries a heavy burden, it unlocks a wellspring of terrifying potential, making them a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.

Navigating the path of an Oathbreaker Paladin requires careful consideration of every aspect of your build. From choosing the ideal race and background to selecting the most potent feats, spells, and strategies, every decision shapes your effectiveness as an agent of chaos. This guide serves as a beacon in the darkness, illuminating the intricacies of building a truly fearsome Oathbreaker Paladin.

Whether you envision your Oathbreaker as a towering dragonborn tyrant, a cunning tiefling mastermind, or a relentless half-orc berserker, understanding the mechanics underpinning this subclass is paramount. By mastering their unique Channel Divinity options, exploring the depths of their Aura of Hate, and wielding their dreaded Control Undead ability, you can transform your Oathbreaker Paladin into an unstoppable force of darkness.

However, the path of the Oathbreaker is not for the faint of heart. This transgression comes at a steep price, both morally and mechanically. You will be shunned by those who once called you an ally, and your powers will draw the attention of both righteous forces and malevolent entities. Yet, for those willing to embrace the darkness and seize its power, the Oathbreaker Paladin offers a unique and thrilling gameplay experience.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Oathbreaker Paladin

Advantages	Disadvantages
Powerful offensive abilities	Roleplaying challenges due to alignment shift
Control over undead creatures	Limited healing capabilities compared to other paladin oaths
Aura of Hate provides a consistent damage boost	Vulnerable to divine retribution and attacks from good-aligned beings

Best Practices for Oathbreaker Paladins

To truly master the dark arts of the Oathbreaker, consider these best practices:

Embrace the role of an antagonist. Your character's fall should be a defining aspect of their personality and actions.
Utilize your Channel Divinity options strategically. Control Undead can turn the tide of battle, while Dreadful Aspect instills fear in the hearts of your enemies.
Optimize your spell selection for both offense and battlefield control. Spells like Bane and Inflict Wounds synergize well with your fear-inducing abilities.
Coordinate with your party. While your role leans towards offense, understanding your party's strengths and weaknesses can enhance your overall effectiveness.
Consider multiclassing options. Dipping into classes like Warlock or Sorcerer can further amplify your offensive potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oathbreaker Paladins

Let's address some common inquiries regarding Oathbreaker Paladins:

1. What alignments are suitable for an Oathbreaker Paladin?

Oathbreaker Paladins are typically Chaotic Neutral, Lawful Evil, or Neutral Evil. Their alignment reflects their break from traditional paladin oaths and their embrace of darker powers.

2. Can an Oathbreaker Paladin redeem themselves?

Redemption is possible, but challenging. It often requires atonement for past deeds and a genuine desire to return to the light.

3. How does the Aura of Hate function?

The Aura of Hate grants a bonus to damage rolls for you and allies within 10 feet. This aura persists regardless of whether your allies are good or evil.

4. What are the best races for an Oathbreaker Paladin?

Half-Orc, Tiefling, and Dragonborn are popular choices due to their racial traits that complement the Oathbreaker's strengths.

5. Is multiclassing recommended for Oathbreaker Paladins?

While not mandatory, multiclassing can enhance your build. Consider a dip into Warlock for Eldritch Blast invocations or Sorcerer for more spell slots.

6. What are some effective feats for Oathbreaker Paladins?

Great Weapon Master, Polearm Master, and Sentinel are excellent choices for boosting damage output and battlefield control.

7. Can an Oathbreaker Paladin still use healing spells?

Yes, Oathbreaker Paladins retain access to their divine spell list, including healing spells. However, their focus shifts towards inflicting harm.

8. What deities do Oathbreaker Paladins typically serve?

Oathbreaker Paladins might serve evil deities, archdevils, demon lords, or simply their own ambition and thirst for power.

Conclusion: Embrace the Power, Command the Darkness

The Oathbreaker Paladin, a figure of immense power and shadowed morality, presents a unique and compelling archetype in the world of Dungeons and Dragons 5e. Though their path is fraught with danger and moral ambiguity, their mastery over dark powers and ability to dominate the battlefield is undeniable. By understanding their strengths, optimizing their build, and embracing the role of a fallen champion, you can craft an unforgettable character whose impact on your campaign will be felt for ages to come.

Whether you seek to spread fear throughout the land, amass power for your own selfish desires, or simply explore the darker side of the paladin archetype, the Oathbreaker Paladin offers a thrilling and rewarding experience for both players and Dungeon Masters alike. Dare to delve into the shadows, embrace the power within, and carve your legend in the annals of D&D history.