Paladin (Dungeons & Dragons)
| Paladin | |
|---|---|
| Dungeons & Dragons character class | |
| Publication history | |
| First appearance | Supplement I – Greyhawk |
| Editions (standard class) | 1st, 2nd, 3rd, v3.5, 4th, 5th |
| Editions (alternate class) | Original, Basic |
| Source books |
|
| Grouping | |
| 1E base class | Fighter or Cavalier |
| 2E group | Warrior |
| 4E powersource | Divine |
| 4E role | Defender |
The paladin is one of the standard playable character classes in most editions of the Dungeons & Dragons fantasy role-playing game. The paladin is a holy knight, crusading in the name of good and order, and is a divine spellcaster.
From 1st through 3rd edition, paladins were required to maintain the Lawful Good alignment. In addition, compared with other classes, the paladin class has one of the most restrictive codes of conduct; further, paladin characters are expected to demonstrate and embody goodness. Failure to maintain a lawful good alignment or adhere to the code of conduct causes paladins to lose their paladin status and many of their special abilities until they are able to atone. With the introduction of the 4th edition of D&D, paladins become champions of a chosen deity instead of just righteous warriors, paladins can be of any alignment, and can no longer fall in disgrace and lose their paladinhood.