New Rogue Subclass in D&D: Embracing Evil with Scion of the Three

A new expansion in Dungeons & Dragons, the \u201cScion of the Three\u201d Rogue subclass, is set to captivate enthusiasts, particularly those fond of Baldur\u2019s Gate 3. This latest addition allows players to embody the malevolent energies of Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul, offering a fresh, darker dimension to character development. While acknowledging its clear inspiration from the popular video game, many players are eager to explore the unique, fear-inducing abilities this subclass brings to the tabletop, blurring the lines between outright villainy and cursed servitude.

Scheduled for release this November as part of the new Forgotten Realms books, specifically \u201cHeroes of Faer\u00fbn,\u201d the Scion of the Three subclass stands out among eight new additions. It offers players a distinct path focusing on bloodlust and intimidation, aligning perfectly with an evil alignment, though it is not strictly mandatory. This flexibility allows for diverse interpretations, from those who willingly embrace their dark patrons to those who are unwillingly bound to their service, as outlined in a D&D Beyond summary.

The mechanics of the Scion of the Three Rogue subclass begin to unfold at level three with two primary features: Bloodthirst and Dread Alliance. Bloodthirst grants rogues the ability to inflict additional damage on injured adversaries and perform a reaction-based teleportation when an enemy is defeated. Dread Alliance permits Scions to align with one of the Dead Three during each long rest, gaining specific resistances and cantrips. For instance, choosing Bane provides Psychic Resistance and Minor Illusion, Bhaal grants Poison Resistance and Blade Ward, and Myrkul offers Necrotic Resistance and Chill Touch, each choice shaping the character's daily strategy.

As the character progresses to higher levels, the abilities become even more formidable and sinister. At level nine, Rogues gain \u201cStrike Fear,\u201d introducing the \u201cTerrify\u201d Cunning Strike option, which can leave enemies frightened. By level 13, the \u201cAura of Malevolence\u201d manifests, creating a continuous damaging emanation from the rogue that bypasses typical resistances. The pinnacle of this dark power is reached at level 17 with \u201cDread Incarnate,\u201d which bestows \u201cBattle Tyrant\u201d and \u201cMurderous Intent,\u201d enhancing attacks against frightened foes and improving Sneak Attacks, respectively.

This subclass is arguably the most wicked rogue option introduced thus far, even surpassing the Assassin, whose motives are often mercenary. Scion of the Three Rogues engage in their deadly pursuits out of a pure love for malevolence, a fitting characteristic when dealing with the Dead Three\u2014a notorious trio of evil deities. While these gods have appeared in various media, their direct integration into D&D classes has been limited until now, with only a few prestige classes in 3e remotely linked to them.

The creation of this subclass appears to be a deliberate effort to connect with the immense popularity of Baldur\u2019s Gate 3, especially given the success of related merchandise like the Astarion Magic the Gathering collection. This new addition caters to the desire for more content inspired by the game, offering fans a unique opportunity to bring beloved characters like Astarion into their tabletop adventures. It also serves as an inviting gateway for Baldur\u2019s Gate 3 players who might be new to D&D, making the transition less daunting by allowing them to base characters around familiar lore and deities prevalent in Baldur\u2019s Gate.

This new subclass presents an incredibly persuasive argument for exploring an evil character in Dungeons & Dragons. The concept of aligning daily with one of the Dead Three to further one\u2019s dark ambitions, coupled with the amusing notion of radiating a constant aura of malevolence that harms all nearby, makes for a compelling and creative gameplay experience. Despite its clear origins as a marketing tie-in, the depth and potential for immersive storytelling offered by the Scion of the Three subclass make it an irresistible choice for any player seeking to embrace their inner villain.