D&D 5E [Dark Sun] How Would YOU Handle Defiling in 5e?

[FormerlyHemlock]

I seem to remember in the old days 2e that defiling caused hp damage to nearby creatures. I would just go with something like, plants turn to ash and creatures in same area suffer 2 x spell level damage (cant be resisted or reduced in any way).

That's only for the 10th level spells ("psionic enchantments") in Dragon Kings.

 

[Psikerlord#]

That's only for the 10th level spells ("psionic enchantments") in Dragon Kings.

Oh ok I thought it was more prevalent, well I do like the idea regardless!

 

[77IM]

The downside of defiling is primarily role-playing: you get a really bad reputation. So I'd just give out Inspiration whenever that reputation causes problems for you. Otherwise, both defiling and preserving follow the same rules as the PHB wizard.