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D&D Alignments

Complete guide to the 9 alignment system in D&D 5e, from Lawful Good to Chaotic Evil.

The Nine Alignments

LawfulNeutralChaotic
GoodLawful GoodNeutral GoodChaotic Good
NeutralLawful NeutralTrue NeutralChaotic Neutral
EvilLawful EvilNeutral EvilChaotic Evil

Alignment represents a creature's moral and ethical outlook. The lawful-chaotic axis reflects attitude toward society and order, while good-evil reflects moral character.

Choosing Your Alignment

Your alignment should reflect your character's personality and values, not restrict their actions. Characters can act against their alignment occasionally without changing it.

Some class features (like paladins) may have alignment requirements. Discuss with your DM how strictly alignment is enforced in your campaign.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Treating alignment as rigid rules rather than guidelines
Common Mistake
Using alignment to justify disruptive behavior
Common Mistake
Forgetting that alignment can change over time

DM Tips

DM Tip
Let players define what their alignment means for their character
DM Tip
Use alignment for NPCs and monsters, but don't restrict player choice
DM Tip
Consider removing alignment restrictions on classes if it fits your campaign

Frequently Asked Questions