Tiefling 5e
Tieflings are humans with fiendish heritage, bearing physical marks of their infernal bloodline such as horns, tails, and unusual skin colors. Their appearance and heritage often lead to mistrust and prejudice from others. Despite their dark ancestry, tieflings can be of any alignment and often struggle against the stereotypes placed upon them. They are clever, charismatic, and resilient in the face of adversity.
At a Glance
Ability Scores
+2 Charisma, +1 Intelligence
Size
Medium
Speed
30 ft.
Languages
Common, Infernal
Source
Player's Handbook
Racial Traits
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Darkvision | You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. |
| Hellish Resistance | You have resistance to fire damage. |
| Infernal Legacy | You know the Thaumaturgy cantrip. When you reach 3rd level, you can cast the Hellish Rebuke spell once as a 2nd-level spell. When you reach 5th level, you can cast the Darkness spell once. You must finish a long rest to cast these spells again with this trait. Charisma is your spellcasting ability for these spells. |
Subraces
| Subrace | Bonus |
|---|---|
| Asmodeus Tiefling | +1 Intelligence. Standard Infernal Legacy (Thaumaturgy, Hellish Rebuke, Darkness). |
| Baalzebul Tiefling | +1 Intelligence. Legacy of Maladomini: Thaumaturgy cantrip, Ray of Sickness at 3rd level, Crown of Madness at 5th level. |
| Dispater Tiefling | +1 Dexterity. Legacy of Dis: Thaumaturgy cantrip, Disguise Self at 3rd level, Detect Thoughts at 5th level. |
| Fierna Tiefling | +1 Wisdom. Legacy of Phlegethos: Friends cantrip, Charm Person at 3rd level, Suggestion at 5th level. |
| Glasya Tiefling | +1 Dexterity. Legacy of Malbolge: Minor Illusion cantrip, Disguise Self at 3rd level, Invisibility at 5th level. |
| Levistus Tiefling | +1 Constitution. Legacy of Stygia: Ray of Frost cantrip, Armor of Agathys at 3rd level, Darkness at 5th level. |
| Mammon Tiefling | +1 Intelligence. Legacy of Minauros: Mage Hand cantrip, Tenser's Floating Disk at 3rd level, Arcane Lock at 5th level. |
| Mephistopheles Tiefling | +1 Intelligence. Legacy of Cania: Mage Hand cantrip, Burning Hands at 3rd level, Flame Blade at 5th level. |
| Zariel Tiefling | +1 Strength. Legacy of Avernus: Thaumaturgy cantrip, Searing Smite at 3rd level, Branding Smite at 5th level. |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting Hellish Rebuke is cast at 2nd level, not 1st level
Common Mistake
Not tracking the level requirements for legacy spells (3rd and 5th level)
Common Mistake
Assuming all tieflings are evil or devil-worshippers
Common Mistake
Not using Thaumaturgy for intimidation or dramatic flair
Common Mistake
Forgetting the variant tiefling subraces from Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes
DM Tips
DM Tip
Tieflings face prejudice - use this to create meaningful roleplay moments
DM Tip
Fire resistance is common but very useful
DM Tip
Hellish Rebuke is excellent for reaction-based retaliation
DM Tip
Different infernal bloodlines offer very different playstyles
DM Tip
Consider fiendish ancestry as a source of plot complications or opportunities
DM Tip
Zariel tieflings make excellent paladins and fighters
DM Tip
Glasya tieflings are perfect for rogues and infiltrators
DM Tip
Their struggle against stereotypes provides rich character development
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Tiefling — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD race text
- Tiefling — D&D Beyond — Official race reference
- Tiefling Handbook — RPGBOT — Race optimization guide