Can You Play as an Undead Character in Dungeons Dragons?

Dungeons Dragons (DD) offers a vast array of character options, and playing as an undead character is one of the unique and intriguing choices available. While the rules are not explicitly detailed, Gygax's insights offer valuable guidance. Let's explore the advantages and disadvantages of playing as an undead character in DD.

Exploring Undead Characters in DD

According to Gygax, you can certainly play as an undead character in DD. However, his reluctance to recommend it aligns with the one aspect of his approach to DMing that I don't agree with—his fear of player power. Rather than harkening back to his conservative stance, let's focus on the potential for powerful and intriguing gameplay.

Advantages of Playing as an Undead Character

Undead characters in DD possess a range of impressive powers and abilities, making them a formidable force in any campaign:

Immunity to Illusions: Undead characters are immune to all forms of illusions, including invisibility. This makes them exceptionally hard to sneak past or trick. Immunity to Charm: This includes many effective spells from clerics and magic users, significantly reducing the variety of magical threats in your path. No Aging: Although not as common a problem, being undead means you won't worry about age causing you to become less effective or less attractive. Immunity to Paralysis and Death Spells: Fewer spells to consider, reducing your risk of instant death or incapacitation. Potential Powers: Depending on the type of undead, you might gain additional powers like flight, energy drain, or special resistance to certain types of damage. Half Damage from Slashing and Quarter Damage from Piercing: This reduces your vulnerability to specific weapon types, making you more versatile in combat.

These advantages provide a robust framework for building a powerful and intriguing character, capable of facing formidable foes and rapidly advancing through the levels of the game.

Drawbacks of Playing as an Undead Character

While undead characters have many appealing aspects, they also come with significant drawbacks:

Immortality: While undead characters won't age, they also can't be healed. This means you'll have to rely on natural recovery or special abilities to regain hit points. Vulnerability to Turn Undead: Clerics and their followers can turn you into a minotaur or haunt you with a terrible fate, making day-to-day life quite challenging. Reactions from NPCs and Other Players: Many non-player characters (NPCs) and likely other players will have strong negative reactions, especially if your undead character is perceived as a threat. Limited Daytime Activity: In many campaign settings, undead characters are vulnerable to sunlight, limiting their ability to operate during the day.

These drawbacks mean that playing an undead character requires careful planning and consideration of your campaign's atmosphere and the preferences of your fellow players and the Dungeon Master (DM).

DM Approval and Setting Considerations

Before embarking on this unique and powerful path, it's crucial to consider the following:

DM Approval: Your DM must be comfortable with the concept of an undead character. Discuss the implications with them, and ensure they are open to your character's inclusion in the campaign. Reactions from Others: Not everyone is fine with the idea of animated corpses walking among them. Consider the reactions of your fellow players and NPCs in the setting. Reasons for Undeadness: Determine the reason for your character's undead state. Is it a curse, a sacrifice, or a deliberate act of undeath? This backstory can add depth to your character.

For example, a Ghast, a highly intelligent undead creature, offers a unique and intriguing angle. Ghasts maintain their intelligence, making them excellent candidates for classes like Monk or Kensai, combining martial prowess with spiritual strength.

Remember, the key to a successful undead character is balance and preparation. With the right DM and settings, playing as an undead character can be an immensely rewarding experience, filled with both power and challenge.