November 12, 2024

AD&D - Detecting Alignment, Its not as cut and dry as you think.

11 minutes

In today's episode, I go over the rules for detect good and/or evil as listed in the Dungeon Masters guide. This gives us a little more then what's listed in the players handbook under the Paladin ability "Detect Evil". It tells us that only "Know Alignment" can truly determine a person's alignment.

The detection of good and evil in characters relies on powerful spells or inherent character alignment. Only strong manifestations of good or evil can be detected, often radiated by high-level characters or powerful beings. Most magic items do not reveal such auras unless specifically aligned, while certain places or items like holy/unholy

water do. Detection requires a period of stillness and concentration to perceive these auras accurately.

Highlights -🔍

Character Alignment: Distinction between character alignment and powerful forces.

Know Alignment Spell: Essential for determining inherent good or evil.

High-Level Characters: Only strong alignments (8th level+) may radiate auras.

Powerful Beings: Demons and devils emanate strong evil or good.

Magic Items: Most do not radiate unless directly related to alignment.

Neutral Items: Items like poison have no aura.

Concentration Required: Detection needs focus and stillness.

...more