The Neutral Evil Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Chaotic Self-Interest
Neutral Evil. The alignment often misunderstood, sometimes dismissed as simply “evil but lazy,” but in reality, a complex and fascinating approach to morality (or the lack thereof). Unlike their Lawful Evil or Chaotic Evil counterparts, Neutral Evil characters aren’t driven by adherence to a rigid code or a burning desire to destroy everything in their path. They are driven by *self-interest*, pure and simple. They will do whatever it takes to achieve their goals, regardless of whether it helps or harms others, and without any particular preference for order or chaos.
This guide will delve deep into the nuances of Neutral Evil, providing a comprehensive look at how to embody this alignment in role-playing games, storytelling, or even just understanding different perspectives on morality. Prepare to explore the world through a lens of calculated pragmatism, where the ends justify the means, and the only loyalty is to yourself.
Understanding the Neutral Evil Mindset
Before we delve into specific actions and behaviors, it’s crucial to grasp the core tenets of Neutral Evil. This alignment is not about wanton destruction or knee-jerk cruelty. It’s about strategic advantage. Think of a successful CEO who ruthlessly eliminates competition, not out of malice, but to maximize profits. Or a cunning rogue who betrays alliances when a better opportunity arises.
Here are some key elements of the Neutral Evil mindset:
* **Self-Interest Above All:** This is the bedrock of Neutral Evil. Every decision is filtered through the lens of “How does this benefit me?” Empathy and compassion are secondary, if they exist at all. They might feign concern for others to manipulate them, but their true motivation is always personal gain.
* **Pragmatism and Efficiency:** Neutral Evil characters are practical. They choose the most efficient route to achieve their goals, even if it involves morally questionable actions. They don’t get bogged down in sentimentality or ethical dilemmas. If lying, cheating, or stealing gets them closer to their objective, they won’t hesitate.
* **Lack of Moral Compass (Beyond Self-Preservation):** This doesn’t necessarily mean they are incapable of feeling guilt, but they are adept at rationalizing their actions. They might tell themselves that their victims deserved it, or that the ends justify the means. They operate outside the traditional framework of good and evil, judging actions solely on their utility.
* **Opportunism:** Neutral Evil characters are always on the lookout for opportunities to advance their own interests. They are quick to exploit weaknesses in others, and they are not afraid to take risks if the potential reward is high enough.
* **No Particular Affiliation to Order or Chaos:** Unlike Lawful Evil, they don’t crave a rigid social hierarchy to exploit. Unlike Chaotic Evil, they don’t actively seek to disrupt order for its own sake. They are equally comfortable operating within the system or undermining it, depending on which approach is more advantageous.
* **Calculating and Manipulative:** Neutral Evil characters often excel at manipulation. They are skilled at reading people, identifying their desires and vulnerabilities, and using that knowledge to their advantage. They might use flattery, intimidation, or deception to get what they want.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing a Neutral Evil Character
Now that we’ve established the foundational principles, let’s explore how to bring a Neutral Evil character to life. Remember, the key is to focus on self-interest and pragmatism, and to avoid falling into simplistic stereotypes of mustache-twirling villains.
**Step 1: Define Your Character’s Goals**
What does your character want? This is the driving force behind their actions. Is it wealth, power, knowledge, revenge, or something else entirely? Be specific and realistic. The more clearly defined your character’s goals are, the easier it will be to make decisions in character.
Examples:
* A merchant who wants to become the wealthiest person in the city, even if it means driving competitors out of business through unethical practices.
* A scholar who seeks forbidden knowledge, regardless of the consequences of uncovering it.
* A noble who desires the throne, and is willing to use blackmail, assassination, or any other means necessary to achieve it.
* A commoner who desires to be no longer common, and will swindle, blackmail, and connive their way up the social ladder.
**Step 2: Determine Your Character’s Methods**
How will your character achieve their goals? This is where the Neutral Evil alignment truly shines. They are not bound by laws or morals, so they have a wide range of options available to them. Consider the following:
* **Deception and Lies:** Lying is a tool, not a moral transgression. Neutral Evil characters are skilled at crafting believable stories and manipulating others with false information.
* **Manipulation and Influence:** They are adept at identifying people’s desires and vulnerabilities and using that knowledge to control them.
* **Exploitation:** They are quick to take advantage of others’ weaknesses or misfortunes.
* **Theft and Extortion:** Stealing or demanding money or favors through threats are viable options.
* **Violence (as a Last Resort):** While not inherently violent, Neutral Evil characters are willing to use force if it’s the most efficient way to achieve their goals. However, they prefer to avoid direct confrontation if possible, as it carries risks.
* **Building Alliances (Temporarily):** Neutral Evil characters may form alliances with others, but these alliances are always based on mutual benefit. They will not hesitate to betray their allies if a better opportunity arises.
**Step 3: Establish Your Character’s Limits (or Lack Thereof)**
While Neutral Evil characters are driven by self-interest, they may still have certain lines they won’t cross. These limits are not based on morality, but rather on practicality. For example:
* **Risk Assessment:** They might avoid actions that are too risky, even if the potential reward is high. They value their own safety and well-being above all else.
* **Unnecessary Cruelty:** They might avoid inflicting pain or suffering for no reason. Cruelty is a tool, not an end in itself. If it doesn’t advance their goals, they won’t bother.
* **Betraying a Useful Ally (Too Soon):** They might refrain from betraying an ally who is still providing them with valuable resources or information. They will wait until they have extracted everything they can from the relationship before cutting ties.
* **Attracting Undue Attention:** They may wish to keep their activities subtle, avoid being the center of attention and rather work in the shadows to achieve their goals.
It’s important to define these limits to make your character more believable and prevent them from becoming a one-dimensional caricature.
**Step 4: Develop Your Character’s Personality and Flaws**
Even though Neutral Evil characters are primarily driven by self-interest, they should still have unique personalities and flaws. This will make them more relatable and engaging.
Consider the following:
* **Quirks and Habits:** Does your character have any unusual habits or mannerisms? This could be anything from a nervous tic to a fondness for collecting rare coins.
* **Sense of Humor (or Lack Thereof):** Does your character have a sense of humor? If so, what kind? Sarcastic, cynical, or perhaps even surprisingly lighthearted?
* **Hidden Vulnerabilities:** Even the most ruthless characters may have hidden vulnerabilities. This could be a fear of failure, a longing for connection, or a secret regret from their past.
* **Areas of Expertise:** In what skills does your character excel? Are they a master manipulator, a skilled negotiator, or a talented artist? Their skills may inform their evil deeds.
* **Motivations Beyond the Obvious:** While self-interest is primary, what fuels that self-interest? A deep-seated insecurity? A desire to prove something to someone? A fear of being powerless?
**Step 5: Examples in Practice – Roleplaying Scenarios**
Let’s examine how a Neutral Evil character might react in various scenarios:
* **Scenario: The Party Needs to Cross a Treacherous Bridge, Guarded by a Troll. The Troll Demands a Toll – A Valuable Artifact.**
* **Good Alignment:** Would likely try to reason with the troll, offer an alternative payment, or fight the troll to protect others.
* **Lawful Evil:** Might offer a deal to the troll – perhaps future services or a steady supply of victims – adhering to a structured agreement.
* **Chaotic Evil:** Would likely attack the troll without provocation, simply for the sake of causing chaos and destruction.
* **Neutral Evil:** The Neutral Evil character would assess the situation pragmatically. If the artifact is valuable but replaceable, they might reluctantly pay the toll. However, they would also consider other options: Can they sneak past the troll? Can they trick the troll into leaving its post? Can they find a way to collapse the bridge and eliminate the problem entirely? They would choose the option that minimizes their risk and maximizes their gain, even if it means sacrificing another party member (if that party member was carrying the artifact, for instance).
* **Scenario: A Beggar Approaches the Party, Asking for Food.**
* **Good Alignment:** Would likely offer the beggar food or money, out of compassion.
* **Lawful Evil:** Might ignore the beggar, adhering to a strict code that prioritizes order and self-reliance.
* **Chaotic Evil:** Might mock or even harm the beggar, simply for their own amusement.
* **Neutral Evil:** The Neutral Evil character’s reaction would depend on the context. If the beggar appears weak and vulnerable, they might ignore them. However, if they suspect the beggar might have useful information or connections, they might offer them food in exchange for information. They might even exploit the beggar’s desperation for their own purposes.
* **Scenario: The Party Discovers a Hidden Treasure Chest.**
* **Good Alignment:** Would likely share the treasure equally among the party members.
* **Lawful Evil:** Might claim a larger share of the treasure, based on their position or contribution to the group, but would still adhere to a pre-agreed upon system.
* **Chaotic Evil:** Might attempt to steal the entire treasure for themselves, regardless of the consequences.
* **Neutral Evil:** The Neutral Evil character would assess the situation strategically. If they believe they can get away with stealing the entire treasure, they might try it. However, if they think they will be caught, they might propose a seemingly fair split, while secretly planning to double-cross their companions later. They might also try to manipulate the other party members into giving them a larger share of the treasure.
**Step 6: Long-Term Considerations and Character Development**
* **Evolving Goals:** As your character achieves some goals, what new ambitions arise? Perhaps initial wealth leads to a desire for political power.
* **Consequences of Actions:** Neutral Evil actions have consequences. How does your character deal with the fallout of their schemes? Do they become more paranoid? More ruthless? Or do they, perhaps, begin to question their own methods (though not necessarily becoming good)?
* **Relationships:** Even a Neutral Evil character will have relationships, however transactional. Are there people they genuinely (however selfishly) care about? How do these relationships affect their decisions?
* **The Temptation of Power:** How does your character handle wielding significant power? Does it corrupt them further, or do they become more cautious and calculating?
* **Potential for Change (However Slim):** While unlikely, it’s possible for a Neutral Evil character to experience a significant event that causes them to re-evaluate their priorities. Perhaps they witness the devastating consequences of their actions firsthand, or perhaps they form a genuine bond with someone who challenges their beliefs. This doesn’t necessarily mean they will become good, but it could lead to a shift in their alignment towards Neutral or even True Neutral.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
* **Being Predictably Evil:** Don’t fall into the trap of making your character’s actions obvious and predictable. Surprise the other players with unexpected choices.
* **Being Pointlessly Cruel:** Cruelty for the sake of cruelty is more Chaotic Evil than Neutral Evil. Make sure your character’s actions are always motivated by self-interest.
* **Ignoring the Party:** While self-interest is paramount, remember that you are part of a group (usually). Completely ignoring the other players will make the game unfun for everyone.
* **Being a One-Dimensional Caricature:** Give your character depth and complexity. Explore their motivations, flaws, and vulnerabilities.
* **Breaking the Game:** Avoid actions that will derail the campaign or ruin the fun for other players. Remember, it’s a collaborative game.
Examples of Neutral Evil Characters in Fiction
* **Littlefinger (Petyr Baelish) from *Game of Thrones*:** Littlefinger is a master manipulator who uses his intelligence and cunning to climb the social ladder. He is driven by a desire for power and control, and he is willing to betray anyone to achieve his goals. He cares for no one but himself.
* **Ebenezer Scrooge (Before his Transformation) from *A Christmas Carol*:** A miserly and uncompassionate businessman who only cares about accumulating wealth. He exploits his employees and refuses to help those in need.
* **Frank Underwood from *House of Cards*:** A ruthless and ambitious politician who is willing to do anything to get ahead. He manipulates, lies, and even murders his way to the top.
* **The Illusive Man from *Mass Effect*:** The leader of Cerberus, he believes humanity’s survival requires any and all means, even unethical experiments and alliance with dangerous forces.
Conclusion
Playing a Neutral Evil character can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a willingness to explore the darker aspects of human nature. By understanding the core tenets of this alignment and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a compelling and memorable character that will add depth and intrigue to any game or story. Remember, the most effective Neutral Evil characters are not cartoonish villains, but complex individuals who are driven by self-interest and willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals. Good luck, and may your self-serving schemes be ever successful!