AD&D Spotlight: Crafting the Perfect Death Knight for Your Campaign

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

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This issue of Dragon Magazine #222 features an in-depth exploration of the Death Knight as a terrifying and tragic NPC (Non-Player Character) in Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. Once noble warriors, death knights now serve evil, wielding immense power and command over undead forces. The article provides a comprehensive guide on how to create and use death knights as complex villains in campaigns, offering unique abilities, spellcasting, and eerie leadership qualities. It also explores their motivations and tragic backstories, as well as their relationships with undead allies.

Highlights:

• 💀 Origins: Death knights were once noble warriors who fell into evil and undeath, often after a deep betrayal or tragedy.
• ⚔️ Combat Prowess: Retain warrior abilities, with increased strength and unique magical powers as they commit acts of evil.
• 🛡️ Magic Resistance: High magic resistance based on their level, with a max of 95%.
• 🏰 Undead Leadership: Attract undead minions like skeletons and zombies, and occasionally powerful undead allies like liches.
• 🧠 Complex Villainy: Motivated by self-loathing and the corruption of good individuals, they embody tragedy and manipulation.