The Nine Alignments¶
Alignment reflects a character's basic attitude toward society and the forces of the universe. There are nine combinations on the law–chaos and good–evil axes.
For the mechanical impact of alignment (starting reputation, class restrictions) see the rules-side Alignment page.
Lawful Good¶
Characters of this alignment believe an orderly, strong society with a moral government can make life better for the majority of people. When people respect the law and try to help one another, society as a whole prospers. Lawful good characters strive to bring the greatest benefit to the most people while causing the least harm. Lawful good characters keep their word.
Neutral Good¶
Neutral good characters believe a balance of forces is important but that the concerns of law and chaos do not moderate the need for good. Since the universe is vast and contains many creatures striving for different goals, a determined pursuit of good will not upset the balance; it may even maintain it. If fostering good means supporting organized society, then that is what must be done. If good can only come about through the overthrow of existing social order, so be it. Social structure itself has no innate value.
Chaotic Good¶
Chaotic good characters are strong individualists marked by a streak of kindness and benevolence. They believe in the virtues of goodness and right, but have little use for laws and regulations. They dislike people who "try to push folk around and tell them what to do." Their actions are guided by a personal moral code that, while well-intentioned, may not be in line with the rest of society.
Lawful Neutral¶
Order and organization are of paramount importance to characters of this alignment. They believe in strong, well-ordered government, whether it is a dictatorship or benevolent democracy. Laws must be created and obeyed. The benefits of organization and regimentation far outweigh any moral questions raised by their individual actions. An oath is binding regardless of consequences. Impartial magistrates and soldiers who never question orders are good examples of lawful neutral behavior.
(True) Neutral¶
True neutral characters believe in the ultimate balance of forces. They refuse to see actions as either good or evil and do their best to avoid siding with forces of good, evil, law, or chaos. It is their duty to keep all such forces in a state of equilibrium.
True neutral characters sometimes find themselves drawn into rather peculiar alliances. They frequently side with the underdog, sometimes even changing sides as the previous loser's fortune changes. A true neutral Druid might join the local barony to put down a tribe of evil gnolls, only to drop out or switch sides when the gnolls are brought to the brink of destruction.
Chaotic Neutral¶
Chaotic neutral characters believe there is no order to anything, including their own actions. With this as a guiding principle, they follow whatever whim strikes them in the moment. Good and evil are irrelevant when making a decision. Chaotic neutral characters are extremely difficult to deal with — such characters have been known to cheerfully gamble away everything they have on the roll of a single die for no apparent purpose.
Lawful Evil¶
These characters believe structure and organization elevate those who deserve to rule. They prefer a clearly defined hierarchy between master and servant. If someone is hurt or suffers because of a law that benefits lawful evil characters — too bad. Lawful evil characters obey laws out of fear of punishment or pride of power. Because they honor any contract or oath they make, lawful evil characters are very careful about giving their word. Once given, they will break it only if they can find a way to do so within the constraints of the law.
Neutral Evil¶
Neutral evil characters are primarily concerned with themselves and their own advancement. If there is a quick and easy way to make a profit, legal or otherwise, they take advantage of it. Although neutral evil characters do not have the everyone-for-themselves attitude of chaotic evil characters, they have few qualms about betraying friends and companions for personal gain. They typically base their allegiance on power and money, which makes them quite receptive to bribes.
Chaotic Evil¶
Chaotic evil characters are motivated by a desire for personal gain and pleasure. The strong have the right to take what they want; the weak exist to be exploited. Such personalities generally band together when they share mutual enemies they are unlikely or unable to overcome as individuals. These alliances can be held together only by a strong leader capable of bullying underlings into obedience. Since leadership is based on raw power, at the first sign of weakness, leaders will likely be replaced by anyone able to wrestle their position away.
Source: iwdee/original_manuals/IWDEE - Mastering Melee & Magic.pdf — "Alignments".