AD&D - Detecting Alignment

Its not as cut and dry as you think.

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 -🔍

1. Character Alignment: Distinction between character alignment and powerful forces.

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

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

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

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

6. Neutral Items: Items like poison have no aura.

7. Concentration Required: Detection needs focus and stillness.

Key Insights -💡

1. Character Integrity: Characters with strong moral convictions are more likely to radiate their alignment, indicating that personal faith plays a critical role in detection. This highlights the complexity of moral character beyond mere actions.

2. Powerful Forces: Only the most potent entities and spells can reveal true alignment, suggesting that everyday encounters may mask deeper moral truths. This emphasizes the importance of discernment in interactions.

3. High-Level Implications: As characters gain levels, their alignment becomes more apparent, showing that experience and growth can lead to clearer moral delineations. This can affect team dynamics and decision-making.

4. Aura of Evil/Good: Powerful creatures and enchanted locations can project auras, reinforcing the idea that environment and companionship significantly influence one’s moral standing in the game world.

5. Neutrality: Many items, especially non-magical ones, lack moral auras, indicating that not everything in the world can be categorized as good or evil. This adds depth and realism to gameplay.

6. Detection Mechanics: The need for concentration to detect alignment emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and intention in moral discernment, which can impact strategy in gameplay.

7. Environmental Influences: Locations that are sanctified can emanate strong auras, suggesting that moral alignment can be influenced by external factors, creating dynamic storytelling opportunities.