[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Wrath
A Tiefling's Handbook
So, you've decided to take up the adventuring life eh? Not bad, not bad at all. After all, our… talents can certainly help any adventuring party who can stomach journeying with one of us devil-touched. It's a curse, too, but our dark past can be used to achieve better ends, if you know what you're doing. And 'cause we Tiefling's should look out for each other (I mean, who else will?), that means that I'll help you know what you're doing.
For simplicity's sake, I'll be used Dictuum-Mortuum's color-coded rating style, to let you know what works and doesn't work for you.
Sky Blue indicates something that just plain works.
Blue is something that works well. Maybe not the top choice, but a very good choice nonetheless.
Black can be summed up as "meh." No real downside, but big upside either.
Purple should deter some of you. It can work, but you'll have put in a lot of effort.
Red means you should run from this as fast as you can.
Also, some thanks are in order for these people, I suppose.
Zousha_Omenohu (Paladin build)
[/quote]
[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Heritage
Tiefling Traits
First, let's review what we have to work with. Our forefather's deals with devils in the old days of Bael Turath has given us some useful traits that set us apart from other races.
Ability Scores: We're more charismatic than others, and we tend towards either being book smart or incredibly tough. These incline us towards more magical professions.
Low-light Vision: If everyone else in your group has low-light vision, you can save on sunrods. Nifty.
Languages: You're not locked into learning a certain culture's language. If you can, try to learn how to speak goblin or giant, as it could be helpful.
Skill Bonuses: We can bluff better than others (this works well with our bigger Charisma), and we're also surprisingly stealthy. We've had to survive on the fringes of civilization for a long time, so there shouldn't be any surprises.
Bloodhunt: You tend to do better at kicking an enemy while he's down (or bloodied, as the case may be). Finish of the wounded enemy before moving on.
Fire Resistance: This is quite helpful, depending on the enemies you face. You can also mitigate some of the damage if your party controller drops a fireball on you because you happen to be surrounded by enemies. It also scales rather well.
Infernal Wrath: Our race's signature ability. What was once an iffy proposition of some bonus damage has become something much more fearsome; if a foe hurts you, you will set them on fire. The feat support isn't that bad either.[/quote]
[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Blade
Martial Tieflings
Generally, we Tieflings don't do so well when it comes to Martial classes, as we don't have the inherent physical abilities possessed by Dragonborn, Dwarves, and other such races who tend to excel that these classes. Nonetheless, we can do so if we put our minds to it.
Fighter (PHB)
We tieflings aren't the best fighters, but we can pull our weight all the same. One thing that you should do is to be tougher; intelligence doesn't get you very far in this profession. There's also a lot of tiefling feat support for fighters, and we get a neat paragon path as well. All-in-all, a nice package, although you'll be wanting to pick up a Flaming Weapon at some point to make up for your lower strength.
Battlerager Vigor (MP): This might seem like it would synergize well with Warfiends, but the truth is this style's focus on low-accuracy weapons coupled with our lack of natural strength means that we have a hard time pulling this off.
Tempest Technique (MP): Sadly, we Tiefling's just can't get the necessary Strength, Dexterity, and Wisdom to make this path truly shine. You can certainly try if you want to, but don't be too surprised if you're being outdone by the Shifters and Half-Orcs who can really make this work.
Brawler Style (MP2): Putting people in headlocks sounds like a dirty trick that would be right up our alley, but we don't really have any of the stats to pull this off.
Arena Training (DSCG): The free training in whatever weapons you want is nice. Missing a +1 to attack, not so nice. You'll be pretty much married to Dexterity if you want to pull this off because otherwise its AC bonus will be wasted.
Combat Agility (MP2): This feature is great if you focus on Dexterity. If you don't, then this is basically useless.
Slayer (HoFL): No real synergistic stats here, and most of the tiefling fighter feats don't work with a Slayer. There are better melee strikers for us, believe me.
Ranger (PHB)
You're just not cut out for this lifestyle. If you want to sneak around in the shadows and stab things, I'd recommend looking at the Rogue. If you do insist on doing this, go with Constitution rather than Charisma as a flex stat. Like the Fighter, intelligence doesn't do much for a Ranger.
Archery Style (PHB): You hit opponents from a far much better with spells.
Beast Mastery (MP): We Tieflings aren't exactly known for being puppy-friendly, but if you can find a beast that's willing to put up with you, you can try this. Won't work out too well for you, though.
Marauder Style (MP2): Like the two blade style, but more skirmishy.
Hunter Style (MP2): Basically the Archer Style, but better. Still not a good fit for you.
Running Attack (MP2): If you favor a lot of attacks that include movement as a part of them, take this. If you don't, back off.
Scout (HoFK): An essentials two-blade ranger. Doesn't really fit you at all.
Rogue (PHB)
Since we Tiefling's favor lurking around the battlefield to a straight-up fight, we can make pretty decent Rogues. Maybe not the best, but we can pull out weight just fine. Most tiefling rogues will put their flex stat in Constitution for extra durability, but there are a few that might go with Int.
Brutal Scoundrel (PHB): On the other hand, this doesn't do too much for us. We don't have the Dexterity or the Strength to make this work.
Ruthless Ruffian (MP): Some Charisma is helpful here, but the entire path is too MAD overall for us to be that good at it.
Cunning Sneak (MP2): Another good Tiefling Rogue path. While we don't have Dexterity, Cunning Sneaks like having both Intelligence and Charisma, and our bonus to Stealth is extra helpful in a combat style that revolves around not being seen. Add in other Tiefling goodies, and you have yourself a solid package.
Sharpshooter Talent (MP2): If you've decided to forsake melee and simply strike with ranged weapons all the time, having a bonus to attack with them is certainly helpful.
Warlord (PHB)
Ironically enough, the one Martial path we excel at is the most visible one on the battlefield. But really, if you show yourself to be a competent commander, people will follow you, no matter what you look like, and we Tieflings have the smarts and the gravitas to pull this off. Again, I'd recommend grabbing a Flaming weapon so that you can hit more often.
Tactical Presence (PHB): A higher Intelligence means that we can strategize with the best of them. We're not quite as good for this as Eladrin are, but having a decent Charisma can be useful.
Bravura Presence (MP): We can use the Charisma to good effect just fine, but we're not quite as durable as the Dragonborn, who are the true masters of acting like an idiot to make everyone fight harder.
Resourceful Presence (MP): Now THIS is what we're good at. With both a good Intelligence and a good Charisma, we can take advantage of any situation that may pop up on the battlefield, and turn it to our advantage. We can handle the MADness of this path better than anyone else can.
Skirmishing Presence (MP2): If you want to be a martial archer, this should be right up your alley. Focus on Intelligence as a secondary stat, with Charisma boosting up your will and offering some skill bonuses.
Insightful Presence (MP2): This offers a defensive bent to an offensive class. If you want to go with this, make your secondary stat Charisma. Intelligence can offer some support to Reflex defense.
Battlefront Leader (MP2): While maybe not quite as universally useful as Combat Leader, positioning an ally on the battlefield before combat begins can be invaluable; getting proficiency with heavy shields for free is also rather nice. It also has some nice feat support.
Canny Leader (MP2): This, on the other hand, isn't really that good. Getting bonuses to Perception and Insight, widely regarded as some of the best skills in the game, is handy, but it doesn't quite measure up to the other Leader features.
Archer Warlord (MP2): Godsend if you're fighting from the back lines, useless if you're not. You'll know if you need this or not.
[/quote]
[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Fire
Arcane Tieflings
Our race itself is defined by its connection to the arcane, and we can do very well in any Arcane class we set out mind to. Whether we need to study or intuit the magic forces, we have the perfect minds to do so.
Warlock (PHB)
Back in days of Bael Turath, we Tieflings arose out of the deals our forefathers made with Asmodeus and the legions of hell. To this day, that legacy makes us Tieflings among the best of those who can use Arcane power granted by otherworldly forces. Little can stand up to your might, whether you choose to assault your foe's mind, body, or soul with potent curses. Both Constitution and Intelligence can work as a flex stat in this case.
Fey Pact (PHB): After the disastrous war with Arkhosia, many Tieflings survived by agreeing to serve the sometimes capricious lords of the Feywild. They still regard our race well, and will offer their power to you if you ask. Your high Charisma will make mastering these spells trivial, and your Intelligence will only make your sylvan spells more potent. An excellent choice indeed.
Star Pact (PHB): The alien entities that live beyond the stars are not known to most. But in their lust for power, some of the leaders of Bael Turath made contact with them, and the powers they were granted can be gained, even to this day. Your Charisma is good for some attacks, and your Intelligence boosts power riders, but note that you will also want a good Constitution if you want to use all of the powers that this pact can grant you. Many Star Pact powers also have the Fear Keyword, which just makes this all the more excellent for us.
Dark Pact (FRPG): Though the Drow may have made the first Dark Pacts, it is we Tieflings that have truly perfected it. Many of the powers granted by dealing with the monstrosities of the Underdark may seem as foolish as dealing with Devils, but our excellent Charisma and Intelligence makes us excellent practitioners of this brand of pact magic.
Vestige Pact (AP): This pact relies on Constitution, which means that will be your flex stat. This pact is more leadery than the other warlock pacts, but you can make this work well.
Sorcerer-King Pact (DSCG): Swearing fealty to a Sorcerer-King nets you magic that can be powered either by Constitution or Charisma. For bug synergy you may want to go with Charisma, although you can make a Constitution-based King Pact work as well. With all the Tiefling Pact-Neutral Warlock support, you'll be able to pull this off just fine.
Elemental Pact (HotEC): These warlocks form pacts with the Primordials and other elemental lords. Charisma fuels their favored attacks, and they can also make use out of some of the poison attacks you might have overlooked. That said, it's not as well-supported as other pacts, so be aware of that.
Fey Pact (HoFK): Unlike the average Fey Pact, we teiflings can't use the Hexblade's Fey Pact as well as Drow or Halflings can. Still, we can pull it off. Go with Constitution for your flex stat here; it will serve you better than Intelligence would.
Star Pact (D383): This pact is also a slam-dunk for us, this time Intelligence boosting up our damage against any foe that stands against us. The fear support for this pact isn't as great as it is for the other Star Pact variation, but this still works great for us.
Gloom Pact (HoS): Like the Fey Pact, the Dexterity focus of this pact makes it kind of difficult for us to use. It can be done, but we don't tend to deal as often with the forces of the Shadowfell. At least with devils, you know where you stand.
Elemental Pact (HotEC): The Constitution focus of this pact makes it an automatic winner, and on top of that, we can use it to force enemies to become vulnerable to fire. Yeah, we can do well with this pact.
Star Pact (HoS): The focus on Intelligence makes this a little better for us than the Gloom pact, but it's not enough.
Fey Pact (D406): Probably our best bet, since it has the best control powers. Still, you have the traditional Fey Pact to look at, if you prefer to deal with faeries.
Wizard (PHB)
If your preference for magic is more messing with enemies than straight killing them, you might want to be a wizard. Our high Intelligence allows us to master the wizardly art, and our Charisma qualifies us for the Paragon feat Spell Focus with no investment in it at all. Generally, you won't be using your flex stat for Constitution at all; Intelligence is just too important.
Wand of Accuracy (PHB): You can use a wand to good effect. You might want to boost Charisma rather than Wisdom at character creation for extra Will defense (unless you plan to use the Orb at Paragon levels).
Staff of Defense (PHB): Like the other two implements listed above, you can use a staff pretty well. The notes about Charisma above should be considered as well.
Tome of Binding (AP): This new implement is for those among you who enjoy calling on extraplanar entities and making them do your bidding for a change! HAHAHA- Sorry. Anyway, you should definitely be using Charisma as your Will booster, since you'll be pretty much boosting Constitution along with Intelligence (your summons will be pretty flimsy otherwise).
Tome of Readiness (AP): This shiny new toy is basically a spellbook for Encounter attacks. And like before, you can use it well. This implement works alongside all of the other implements listed above, so choose your secondary stat based on which implement mastery you'll gain at Paragon levels.
Orb of Deception (AP): Maybe Gnomes are the archetypal illusionists, but we can pull it off really well too, our Intelligence and Charisma making us a natural at this type of spellcasting.
Enchantment (HoFL): Not only is this school's Int/Cha requirements perfect for us, but we also work well using Charm spells, which is basically all this school is. Trust me, this is a good pick for you.
Illusion (HoFL): This school can work for you, but our talents better complement the Int/Cha Orb of Deception rather than this Int/Wis school.
Pyromancy(D381): Okay, so we don't have Int/Con, but our support for fire attacks means that this school is awesome for us anyway. Piercing resistances at level 1 is just awesome in this regard.
Necromancy(HoS): You have the Intelligence to use this, but on a whole, the power of its features is… not there.
Nethermancy(HoS): You can shape shadows pretty well. No real secondary stat here unless you want to go Enigmatic Mage, in which case you want to boost Wisdom.
Sha'ir(HotEC): The features on this subclass are a little thin, but you do get a neat djinni companion. If you don't want one of those, look at the Mage or the Arcanist.
Bladesinger(NWCS): This style of Wizardry is pretty elfy, not gonna lie. It's also not as heavy on control as other Wizards. You need good Dexterity to make this really work.
Swordmage (FRPG)
If you want to fight on the front lines, this is one of the best ways to do it. Your Intelligence will work wonders when you enhance your Swordsmanship with magic, and Charisma can be useful for boosting your Will defense, along with enhancing several skills that Swordmages get. Like the Wizard, you won't be trading Intelligence for Constitution, since Intelligence is everything to you.
Aegis of Shielding (FRPG): You'll want to be increasing your Constitution alongside your Intelligence should you choose this path. You get several nice fire-boosted powers enhanced by this Aegis as well. I'd recommend having at least a 12 in Strength, so that Greenflame Blade can be used for minion sweeping purposes. It's a fire move, which makes it nice to have.
Aegis of Ensnarement (AP): Like the Aegis of Shielding, this one is based off of Constitution, and helps you protect allies by poofing the bad guys away and right next to you. Again, Greenflame Blade is nice to have.
Bard (PHB2)
I know what your thinking. "Bard? Pffffft. What could a prissy musician possibly do?" Quite a lot, I'll have you know. The magic wielded by Bards is extremely potent, and your among the prime candidates to wield that power. So pick up that lute (and sword, as well). Trust me, you (and your allies) will thank me later. Seeing as we can have both Constitution and Intelligence as stats, we work well as almost any kind of Bard.
Virtue of Cunning (PHB2): Sure, they can laugh at Bards. Well, they'll be laughing because you magically forced them to laugh until they cough up their diaphragm. Yeah, you're not so funny now, huh? Your big Intelligence will be more useful here, boosting power riders along with your AC and Reflex defense (because Chain is for suckers!).
Virtue of Prescience (AP): So, you wanna be an archer, but Ranger just isn't working out for ya? Believe it or not, humming a catchy tune will do wonders for your aim (imbuing your arrows with magic power doesn't hurt either). You'll want to be boosting Wisdom so that your allies won't totally die on you. You can choose either Constitution or Intelligence for your flex stat here; both work equally well, and it depends on the qualifications for what feats you want.
Sorcerer (PHB2)
If making a deal with foreign entities doesn't appeal to you (which is understandable), you might want to try tapping into your own wellspring of natural power. We can't do it as well the Dragonborn or Halflings can, but we Tieflings can make excellent sorcerers all the same. You'll probably want Constitution as the flex stat you use, since Sorcerers tend to be kind of fragile.
Wild Magic (PHB2): The magic of the elemental chaos is also one that we Tieflings can use well.
Cosmic Magic (AP): Again, our Charisma makes using the magic of the cosmic cycles a good path for us. Blazing Starfall is a pretty awesome power in your hands, so make the most of it.
Storm Magic (AP): Well… fire it ain't, but becoming the very incarnation of a thunderstorm is certainly a viable way for you to defeat your foes.
Artificer (EPG)
Another path that requires careful study, this time approaching magic as science more than an art. We can utilize its powers well nonetheless, as we have the minds necessary to do so.
Tinkerer Artificer (EPG): You get the all-important Intelligence boost, which is crucial, but your Charisma is redundant with Wisdom when it comes to boosting your Will Defense. Can still work well, if you wanna try it.
Warrior Forge Artificer (D381): Like the other builds, Intelligence helps, but like the Tinkerer, Wisdom is the important secondary stat here.
[/quote]
[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Heavens
Divine Tieflings
Despite our connection with the devils of Baator, some gods are willing overlook the past and accept us into their folds. We can do good in the service of the gods, whether it is protecting our allies of the front line or attacking from behind.
Cleric (PHB)
We Tieflings aren't common in the clergy of many churches, but we can work pretty well if we do so. You'll be wanting to put your flex stat into Constitution every time; it may seem odd to not have a high Intelligence for a religion skill, but you're a battle priest; leave it to the weaklings to hash out a God's precepts. Your job is to blast the heretics with light or smack'em with a mace
Devoted Cleric (PHB): Well, Charisma is a secondary stat here, so if you're going to be a cleric, this is probably the way to do it.
Shielding Cleric (DP): Like the Devoted Cleric, Wisdom and Charisma are the order of the day. Unlike the Devoted Cleric, you don't really focus on attacking. At all. This sort of clashes with Tiefling sensibilities, so don't expect to do much with this.
Paladin (PHB)
If you're going to fight on a deity's behalf, do so as a knight. Trust me, the Charisma we Tieflings possess gives us an edge when it comes to utilizing the powers that Paladins are invested with. Just remember that you're representing your god out there, so don't do anything stupid (or do, depending on deity).
Protecting Paladin (PHB): Without a doubt, this is the way for Tieflings to serve the gods. Your Charisma works well in fueling both weapon and implement attacks that this path offers, and there are also so good fire-based implement powers at higher levels. Tiefling Paladins tend to be tougher rather than more intelligent, since being on the front lines means you'd rather be able to take more hits. All-in-all, a very solid career choice if you'd rather embrace religion rather than the shadows.
Balanced Paladin (PHB): Charisma helps here definitely, but a lack of strength just makes this not work as well for us. Go all the way with Charisma, trust me.
Ardent Paladin (DP): Although this is aimed at Strength-based Paladins, you can make good use of it, and it fits in with the Tiefling notions of hunting foes down. Not quite as supported as Lay on Hands, but it works if smiting's your thing.
Virtuous Paladin (DP): Virtue's touch is a lot more situational that the other features, but when you need it, you'll be glad you had it.
Blackguard (HoS): Like their lighter counterparts, Blackguards like Strength and Charisma in equal measure. You might want to go with the Wrath of the Crimson Legion feat here to get your Charisma as your melee basic attack stat. You won't use your At-Will attacks at all, but at 20 Charisma you should be dealing a lot of damage quickly.
Avenger (PHB2)
You'd think that we Tieflings would be naturals at sneaking about in the shadows in the name of our churches, meeting out divine vengeance on heretics. Truth is, it's not quite as natural a fit. Churches can be rather suspicious of us, and while they approve of us fighting in the open, they're not so quick to trust us when we take to the shadows. Still, it isn't all bad; the Oath of Enmity means that a lower Wisdom won't cripple us, our Intelligence helps with several builds, and Bloodhunt means that when its time to end a foe's life, we'll generally end it. Generally, only use Constitution for a flex stat if you can't use Intelligence instead.
Censure of Retribution (PHB2): Intelligence is the secondary stat here, which means that if you want to be an Avenger, this is probably the way you want to do it. Just remember to have a good Constitution as well: you're going to be taking a lot of hits out there.
Censure of Unity (DP): Like the Retributive Avenger, your Intelligence will be put to use here. Tag-teaming with allies is the order of the day, so be sure to let them know who your chosen target is so that you can take it down in short order.
Invoker (PHB2)
Due to our connection to the Nine Hells, and the betrayer god Asmodeus who rules them, the other deities of the Divine Pantheon are hesitant about entrusting us with this brand of divine power. We can use any form of Invoker prayers, although we're not the best at any of the Covenants.
Covenant of Wrath (PHB2): Your flex stat here is going to be Constitution. Charisma is useless, but that's the way it goes.
Covenant of Malediction (DP): Like the Wrathful Invoker, but focused on hurting yourself to put the whammy on enemies. All that needs to be said, really.
Runepriest (PH3)
The art of using Divine Runes is one that we cannot really appreciate, mainly because it requires a lot of physical strength for some reason. Still, our Constitution can be used for some forms of this, at least.
Wrathful Hammer (PH3): This class feature focuses on hammers, low-proficiency weapons with don't blend well with your low strength. On the bright side, you have a Constitution boost. Think about using Flaming Weapons; you'll want the accuracy.
[/quote]
[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Storm
Primal Tieflings
The primal spirits who watch over the world do not kindly remember Bael Turath and the devils that they trafficked with. Allying with them can be a challenge for any Tiefling, but it can be done with perseverance.
Barbarian (PH2)
Our Infernal Wrath can be brought to new heights by enhancing it with the rage of the Barbarian. Sure it's crude, and you won't be the best at it, but you can give it a shot anyhow. Just remember, Constitution over Intelligence; you no need books to smash.
Thaneborn Triumph (PH2): Thaneborns thrive on Charisma, and you've got Charisma. If you feel like smashing some heads primal-style, I'd recommend going this path. As always, try and pick up a Flaming Weapon to make up for your lower strength. This path also has some nice fear powers going with it, which is nice for you.
Thunderborn Wrath (PP): Basically Rageblood Vigor, but with less toughness and more yelling.
Whirling Slayer (PP): Two-Weapon fighting just isn't your thing. Too much Strength and Dexterity that you can't make up for.
Druid (PH2)
This brand of primal magic is something we find hard to grasp. Still, we can use some forms of it. All Tiefling Druids should have Constitution as their flex stat. Trust me on this.
Primal Predator (PH2): You need Wisdom and Dexterity to make this work. You have neither. Pass.
Primal Swarm (PP): Like Primal Guardian, you need Constitution as a secondary here.
Circle of Shelter (HotF): Dexterity-based, which means the Circle of Shelter doesn't work as well for you.
Shaman (PHB2)
This is the other, somewhat-decent way for us to contact the primal spirits. Our wrathful nature tends us to cultivate relationships with more predatory spirits, although those Tieflings with more Constitution tend to speak with more peaceful spirits.
Stalker Spirit (PHB2): Your Intelligence allows you to not totally suck when working in conjunction with the spirits. Don't expect to be outdoing the Deva at this path, though.
Watcher Spirit (PP): This requires more Wisdom and Dexterity than you can muster.
World Guardian Spirit (PP): Basically a Protector Spirit, but less healing and more controlling. Can work for you.
Elemental Spirit (DSCG): Another Spirit Companion that works well with Intelligence. You'll be dismissing the Spirit to make a lot of your attacks, so be sure to have a contingency plan when its not near you, like Spirit of the Tempest. A few Elemental Spirit powers are fire-based, so that's nice at least.
Warden (PHB2)
Sure, trying to protect your allies is all well and good, but trust me, you're much better off doing so with training in Arcane or Divine fighting methods. But if you want to try this, go with a Constitution boost no matter what.
Wildblood (PHB2): This doesn't work for you.
Stormheart (PP): Like Earthstrength, your Constitution helps here.
Lifespirit (PP): If you want to defend and heal your allies, may I suggest being a Paladin? I hear Melora regularly works with Nature Spirits and the like, if you're so inclined.
Seeker (PH3)
Another way of archery that you won't really be good at. Like most other primal paths, Constitution is a better choice than Intelligence here.
Spiritbond (PH3): Like Bloodbond, you just can't hack it.
[/quote]
[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Focus
Psionic Tieflings
The mind can be a powerful thing; this is certainly something we can appreciate. While the meditation of monks is lost on us, the power to augment basic battle techniques is something that we can appreciate very much, especially if it allows us to force our enemies to do as we please, like puppets on invisible string. Trust me, you're going to like this…
Ardent (PH3)
Ardents are weapon-wielding empaths who allow their surging emotions to influence the tides of battle. If you're gifted with these talents, you'll be well-equipped to use them, trust me. Like I've stressed many times, a Flaming Weapon can help you strike true. You'll also prefer to have Constitution as your stat boost. It will be very helpful, trust me.
Mantle of Elation (PH3): Elated Ardents are all about offense, something that Tieflings can appreciate. Charisma and Constitution will receive most of your attention here.
Mantle of Impulsiveness (PsiP):Another offensive-focused Constitution-secondary mantle. The Impulsive Ardent is more focused around taking risks though, handing out damage bonuses to allies who provoke opportunity attacks. Like the other Mantles, you can make this work.
Battlemind (PH3)
Psionic Warriors who force foes to face them, Battleminds are among the toughest warriors there are. Tieflings who excel with sheer, physical toughness can use these disciplines to great effect. In other words, Tiefling Battleminds will never have Intelligence for their flex stat.
Quick Battlemind (PH3): Tiefling Battleminds favor projecting Psionic Power into their foes' minds, rather than using it to reshape their own bodies. The Charisma secondary is boon, and many powers that Quick Battleminds use have Fear or Charm as a part of them, which further synergizes with Tiefling racial traits and feats.
Harrier Battlemind (PsiP): Although this build supposedly has Dexterity as a secondary ability score, none of the powers really rely on Dexterity. So you can just take the Persistent Harrier power and focus on Charisma as your secondary, and you'll do alright.
Wild Battlemind (DSCG): Another Charisma-secondary Battlemind build, this time focusing on Forced Movement powers. If you enjoy telekinesis while bashing people's brains in with a hammer or sword, look no further.
Monk (PH3)
Monks are all about disciplining yourself and that crap, but don't bother. You lack the inherent dexterity, strength, and wisdom that Monks need, and there currently aren't any feats that change that. If you must go with this, use Constitution as a secondary stat. You'll need the extra toughness more than any knowledge checks.
Stone Fist (PH3): This is about as easy for us as the Centered Breath form. Which is to say, it isn't easy for us at all.
Iron Soul (PsiP):This tradition actually works with our Constitution boost. If you like wielding weapons, you might as well go with this.
[b]Eternal Tide (HotEC):/b] Like the Stone Fist, this tradition requires Dexterity and Strength, which we don't have.
Desert Wind (HotEC): This monk form is actually good for us. Our Charisma increases the damage we deal, our Constitution isn't wasted, and it focuses on fire attack rolls, which works pretty well with us overall. If you're gonna be a monk, go desert or go home.
Psion (PH3)
Have you ever wanted to use your mind to crush your foes beneath you? Look no further than this. Monks can espouse that "mind and soul" crap as long as they want, but give me the ability to make an enemy's mind stop working, or make them hit each other!
Telekinetic Focus (PH3): This can still work for us, since we possess the Intelligence for it, but controlling our enemies from without rather than within isn't quite as… satisfying for most Tieflings.
Shaper Focus (PsiP) Some Psions, rather than focusing on telekinesis or telepathy, focus on using their minds to reshape reality itself, calling forth beasts of pure thought with nothing but willpower. Like Telepathy, doing so requires a lot of Intelligence, and Charisma is helpful in a lot of Shaper powers. If creating nightmarish hell-beasts is your thing, then look no further.
[/quote]
[quote="Lord_Ventnor"]
Infernal Shadows
Shadow Tieflings
The perilous magic of the Shadowfell is understood by few, and mastered by far fewer. Still, for those of you with nothing else to lose, discovering its secrets could just unlock the door to your ultimate destiny…
Assassin (D379)
Selling your soul to the shadows can seem reminiscent of the pacts our forefathers made in the days of old. But you'll quickly find that the Shadowfell desires nothing but for you to send living spirits into its murky depths, which you should easily be able to accomplish with the powers you've gained. Your racial bonus to Stealth certainly can't hurt either. You'll want a Constitution bonus in place of a charisma bonus here; Assassins really need all the HP they can get, since they're so starved for it.
Night Stalker (D379): This form of Assassin training is much more conducive to Tiefling sensibilities. Focus on Charisma, extra damage for isolating a target; its all you could really ask for.
Executioner's Guild (D400): You trade all your encounter powers for Assassin's Strike. Not good for you at all, considering there are at least a few Assassin powers worth looking at.
Vampire (HoS)
Um… yeah. Vampires and Devils don't really mix. Well, Vampires and anything don't really mix, but you get what I mean. Charisma is technically good to have, but really, the Vampire class is so underpowered that you'll eventually fall behind in the damage race. When that happens, you'll basically be a healing surge leech on your party, so don't do that.
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Infernal Power
Tiefling Feats and Paragon Paths
So, you've settled on a fighting style or school of magic, have you? That's all well and good, but there's more to adventuring then just that. There are little nuances you can use to enhance your combat ability, and whole paths that we've developed, only learnable by the paragons of our race. I have a feeling you can make it there, so I'll show you what works.
Feats
Let me show you some tips and tricks that only we Tieflings can pull off. Whether its scorching our enemies with hellfire or channeling our wrath in more effective ways, you're going to make sure that your enemies remember who you are, as they suffer in hell.
Bloodhunter's Flank (PHR): An untyped bonus to damage when you flank a bloodied enemy. Rather situational, but if you're the type of character who already enjoys flanking a lot, like a Unity Avenger, then this might pop up a lot for you.
Clever Tail (PHR): Not only is the flavor great, this also allows you to draw daggers and other small weapons, and disarm traps while your arms are otherwise occupied. An obvious fit for Rogues and Assassins, and others can make use of this too.
Diabloic Soul (D381): You gain a bonus to attack vs. foes who critical hit you, but more importantly, you can trade in Infernal Wrath for Diabolic Transformation, which once per day transforms you into a regenerating, powerful hulk thing. Be sure to weigh the benefits, though; Diabolic Transformation can only happen once per day, while Infernal Wrath can be used every encounter. Infernal Wrath also has a lot of feat support, while Diabolic Transformation has none to speak of.
Ferocious Rebuke (PHB): A nice little push effect that's added to your Infernal Wrath. Could be helpful for the more tactically minded.
Furious Demand (D381): You replace whatever 2nd-level utility you have for Furious Demand, which allows you to inflict a save-ends attack debuff on a foe and increases the odds that you can intimidate everyone. It's a fairly nice power if you want it.
Hellfire Blood (PHB): An absolutely wonderful feat. Before the Expertise feats, we Tieflings were the only race that got a full-time attack bonus feat, and even after that, this still stacks with Weapon/Implement Expertise. Flaming Weapons are a good investment for all you weapon wielding classes, while implement-wielding classes should try to get as many fire powers as possible. While fire is a fairly common resistance, there are ways to get around it.
Hellish Defiance (D381): If an enemy thinks its safe after you use Infernal Wrath, it'll have another thing coming; its attacks will cause allies to jump on it until the end of its next turn.
Icy Clutch of Stygia (PHR): If you find yourself inflicting a lot of ongoing damage, pick this little number up; ice is not usually our thing, but it's rather nice in this case.
Imperious Majesty (D381): Pretty much an auto-pick for Tieflings who raise Charisma and not Dexterity. Initiative based off of Charisma plus debuffing an opponent you hit in the first round is a very, very sweet package.
Plaguing Bloodhunt (D385): Spellscarred Tieflings can deal quite a lot of necrotic damage to bloodied foes. With Student of the Plague, this becomes Fire and Necrotic, which means that that feat is actually quite valuable to us in this case.
Scion of the Gods (FRPG): A nice defensive boost in Heroic Tier. Not essential, but nice. If you get this, retrain it out at Paragon Tier for Paragon Defenses.
Tail Slide (PHR): When you shift, you also slide a nearby ally into your space.
Turathi Weapon Training (PHR): This grants proficiency and some solid damage for a motley collection of weapons. The sickle and scythe can be mostly ignored, but the khopesh is a good pick for Tiefling Warfiends, khopeshs, scimitars, and falchions can make good swordmage weapons, and the falchion is a serviceable weapon for Barbarians and Avengers.
Bloodseeker (D378): A small damage boost against, bloodied, marked enemies for Fighters. Not bad, but not really good either.
Cunning Ambusher (MP): If you have Combat Advantage against a foe, you Infernal Wrath does more damage. This isn't bad by any means, but you probably have higher priorities.
Fiendish Companion (MP): Not sure why you're a Tiefling Ranger, but if you are and you have an animal buddy, this gives them the same fire resistance you do. If you find yourself up against a lot of pyromaniacs, I'm sure the mutt will be grateful for this.
Infernal Might (MP2): After using Infernal Wrath, you gain a bonus to weapon attack rolls. This is obviously better if you use weapons with big damage dice like axes, and the damage scales well up to epic.
Lingering Wrath (MP): If you're a Tiefling fighter, you want this feat. It's as simple as that. An encounter-long bonus to attacks after using Infernal Wrath is just great, especially after you find ways to recharge Infernal Wrath.
Rattling Wrath (MP): If you have a rattling power or two, save it until after you use Infernal Wrath, and watch that enemy miss for a round.
Unbalancing Wrath (MP): An easy way to grant Combat Advantage to yourself and your allies for a round. Pretty solid.
War Captain of Avernus (PHR): Allies who spend an action point gain temporary fire and poison resistances. If you face a lot of foes who use these damage types, this is a worthy pick.
Cloying Shadow of Maladomni (PHR): While you generally hope that Shadow Walk prevents foes from hitting you, benefitting from it is also kind of nice.
Hellbook (PHR): You choose one fire spell in your book that you can pull out at any time. This can be useful if you've loaded up on giant minion-busting zones and you suddenly find yourself in need of something a little more focused when you find a dragon on your doorstep.
Hellfire Arcanist (D381): A better-than-normal feat bonus to damage rolls with fire powers, and a bonus to slides that occur with fear effects. A good pick for pyromaniacs.
Hellfire Master (D381): When a foe saves against your fire effects, they take fire damage. This one is very nice.
Hellfire Terror Lord (D381): Foes who save against fear effects are knocked prone. Forcing a foe to lose their next move action = nice on a controller, or anyone else.
Hellish Blast (PHR): Eldritch Blast does fire damage, and extra damage. If you're a fire focused Warlock, you might get this.
Infernal Clamor (AP): When an enemy smacks you, your allies will probably smack it right back. A solid pick for you bards out there, espcially when combined with Unbalacing Wrath.
Nessian Rejuvination (D387): When an ally gets the benefit of Arcane Rejuvenation, they can deal extra damage equal to your Charisma modifier. Unfortunately, your Charisma as an Artificer will never be high, because you'll be too busy focusing on Constitution or Wisdom instead.
Stirring Song of Baator (PHR): When you hit with a fire or fear attack, you grant an ally scaling temporary HP. While Bards don't have many natural fire or fear attacks, its a small matter to create your own with a flaming weapon and Arcane Implement Proficiency. I don't think I'd be wrong when I say just about every Tiefling Bard should pick up this feat at some point. It's really very good.
Vengeful Curse (AP): When an enemy hits you, you can curse them back as an immediate reaction. Not an auto-pick for you Warlocks, but it's not bad at all, and it will help you lay your curses on more foes quickly.
Warlock's Wrath (D381): You gain a boost to Warlock's Curse damage dice, and you gain the Warlock's Wrath power, which makes it a very bad idea to attack you for a turn. You do lose Infernal Wrath to get Warlock's Wrath, so think about it.
Wizard's Wrath (D381): Bloodied Enemies' fire resistance and immunity mean nothing to you, and you also get a nifty power that gives you combat advantage and removes enemy resistances. But you lose Infernal Wrath to get it, so be sure it's what you want.
Wrathful Magic (AP): Instead of waiting to be hit to use Infernal Wrath, you can instead use it proactively when you miss an enemy. Not bad, especially if you've pumped up Infernal Wrath.
Burning Wrath of Phlegethos (PHR): If a Tiefling Avenger damages his Oath of Enmity target with Infernal Wrath, then his next attacks are also going to hurt that much more; that is, if he's focusing on Intelligence.
Infernal Blessing (DP): A handy choice for Tiefling Paladins and Clerics, this allows you to restore an ally's hit points and gives them an attack buff when you use Infernal Wrath.
Infernal Malediction (DP): Invokers get the ability to add Fear to their attacks after using Infernal Wrath. Because there's some decent Fear support, this can be helpful.
Infernal Touch of Warding (PHR): Having your Lay on Hands grant encounter-long fire resistance can be handy in certain situations, I'm sure.
Mark of the Infernal (DP): A foe you use Infernal Wrath against is subject to your Divine Sanction until the start of your next turn. Thing is, unless we're talking about an elite or solo monster, most enemies will only have one attack, making the Divine Sanction wasted on them.
Wrath of the Crimson Legion (D381): You get Melee Training (Charisma) in addition to getting Paladin's Wrath, which Sanctions all enemies around you. You lose Infernal Wrath to get it, but its a good multimarking power, and much better at getting foe's attention than Mark of the Infernal is.
Rites of Spirit's Blood (PP) Tieflings aren't the best Primal Characters, but they sure get an amazing feat if they choose to go that route. A bonus to bloodhunt and a damage bonus after using Infernal Wrath are really, really good taken together.
Turathi Spirit Companion (PHR): Outclassed in every way, shape, and form by Rites of Spirit's Blood.
Psychic Corruption of Malbolge (PHR): Hitting a foe with an augmented attack gives them Vulnerability to fire and psychic attacks. A small vulenrability, but this can be used to your advantage.
Bael Turath Born (D366): A small boost to your Fire Resistance. Nice if you can fit it in, but not crucial.
Bel's Impending Victory (PHR): Hitting a bloodied enemy basically gives all of your allies your Bloodhunt bonus. Not bad, especially if you're a leader.
Blood of Levistus (PHR): You get cold resistance equal to your fire resistance, and a big damage boost to cold powers. While most think of Tieflings as fire guys, this feat is a nice addition for those of you who favor the Lasting Frost/Wintertouched combination. Not to mention those of you who fight a lot of cold enemies.
Dispater's Iron Discipline (PHR): This is basically Iron Will, with a sizable bonus to saving throws against some of the most debilitating effects ever known. Taking this can be a lifesaver.
Fiery Rebuke (PHB): A nice boost to Infernal Wrath damage. It no longer has the kick that it once did, but them's the breaks.
Glasya's Charming Words (PHR): While the feat bonus to hit with Charm Powers doesn't stack with the Expertise Feats, the ability to dominate enemies when you critically hit with a Charm power is very nice. So make sure you pick up a charm power or two if you want to make use of this.
Hellfire of Mephistopheles (PHR): With the July Updates, this feat no longer hands out fire vulnerability like it once did. However, it still permanently reduces a foe's fire resistance with each attack you make, which means that it's still worthy of consideration if you use a lot of fire attacks.
Mammon's Theft of Health (PHR): When you second wind, you steal an ally's healing surge instead of using one of your own. This feat is really only useful for those without many surges to speak of, like Assassins and Rogues.
Secrets of Belial (PHR): This is basically Acolyte Power without any muticlass restrictions. There are some utility powers that any character would like to have, like the Warlock's Ethereal Sidestep or one of the all-day buff utilities that the Druid possesses, so this can be a rather powerful tool in your arsenal.
Infernal Sneak Attack (MP): Instead of using Infernal Wrath to punish a foe who hurt you, you instead use it to double your Sneak Attack damage. Not a bad pickup, but it'll generally shine only in Epic Tier.
Tail Trip (PHR): You can now knock enemies prone with Combat Challenge or Opportunity Attacks. I don't need to stress how awesome this is.
Wrathful Hunter (MP): This feat is a godsend for Tiefling Rangers, who need all the help they can get.
Hell's Burning Mark (PHR): Defenders can inflict Fire Vulnerability from the word go when they mark something. It should serve until you reduce their resistances with Hellfire of Mephistopheles.
Renewed Wrath (PHR): This feat provides not one, but two ways to get Infernal Wrath back. Simply awesome.
Royal Command of Asmodeus (PHR): Instead of Stunning Foes, you dominate them now. If you have a few stunning powers, well, this should be a nice addition to your repertoire.
Accidental Tells (D383): While Tieflings aren't known for being the most insightful beings ever, this allows for a double roll when making Insight checks when you've activated Mantle of Misfortune. Could be pretty handy in a social skill challenge, or to oppose a lurker's bluff check.
Guardian's Mishaps (D383): Defenders can mark those they slide with Mantle of Misfortune. The mark itself lasts a while, so this isn't bad to have at all.
Lucky Misfortune (D383): An enemy misses when you've activated your mantle? Your next attack or skill check is more likely to succeed. Not bad at all.
Benefit of Foresight (D387): You get a double roll when making intimidate checks against beings you see. Seeing as Intimidate can be useful in ending encounters among other things, this can be useful.
Lasting Ruin (D387): Your Gaze of Ruin debuffs last for the entire encounter. If you're a part of this bloodline, this isn't a feat you should be skipping.
Ruin of Flesh (D387): A feat for Paragon Blightseers; If you've targeted a foe's armor or weapon with Gaze of Ruin, suddenly they'll be hurting much more too. How this interacts with Lasting Decay is unclear, so be sure to ask about a ruling.
Sweeping Gaze (D387): Epic Tier Blightseers can target two objects at a time with Gaze of Ruin. Either ruin one enemy's weapon and armor in one go, make a wall easier to shatter while causing a roof to be easier to cave in… This can certainly be useful.
Fiery Blood (HotEC): This paragon feat makes your fire attacks really hurt. In addition, you deal fire damage to foes around you whenever you take fire damage. Not a bad deal at all.
Irresistible Flame (PHB): At Epic Tier, you can use this feat to greatly reduce the time you need to force fire vulnerability with Hellfire of Mephistopheles.
Paragon Paths
Tiefling Hellstalker (MP): This path focuses a lot on invisibility and concealment, which makes it a solid pick for Cunning Sneak rogues.
Tiefling Warfiend (MP): An excellent path should you choose to be a Tiefling Fighter. In fact, this path is a good reason why you should make Constitution a secondary stat as a Tiefling Fighter. The powers are fine, but the features are excellent, as they allow you to punish your marks at a distance, something no other Fighter Paragon Path can do.
Turathi Hell-Kite (PHR): A path that's open to all Martial Classes, although I can really only recommend it to Rogues and Warlords, because its features require a good Intelligence or Charisma score. An additional requirement would be a focus on being in melee, because all of the powers assume that you'll be in melee. Still, the features boost toughness and also allow you to knock enemies prone on an action point, which is nice. The encounter attack is a headbutt, which is just awesome, although it is vs. Fortitude, which means you'll want to be using it against Skirmishers. You also get a nice encounter repositioning utility, and a daily stance which adds free fire damage and also gives you a nova trigger when you want one. Overall, a pretty nice path.
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