Vax'ildan

A half-elf adventurer whose path shifts from rogue to paladin, driven by his bond with his twin sister.

Vax'ildan "Vax" Vessar is a core member of Vox Machina, the adventuring party featured in the first campaign of Critical Role. Played by Liam O'Brien, he is a half-elf who serves as a rogue and paladin throughout the series. The character is defined by his complex relationship with his twin sister, Vex'ahlia, and his journey through various classes that reflect his evolving role within the group. Campaign one ran from March 12, 2015, to October 12, 2017, across 115 episodes; after Vecna is banished in the finale, the Raven Queen takes Vax, her champion, with her to the afterlife.

Quick Facts

Race: half-elf
Class: rogue; paladin
Affiliation: Vox Machina

Lore & Background

Vax'ildan is a half-elf who travels alongside Vox Machina as they traverse the continent of Tal'Dorei. His class progression is notable: he is a rogue who later adds paladin and druid levels. This versatility allows him to adapt to the challenges faced by the group, from fighting dangerous beasts like those in the Chroma Conclave to navigating the political landscape of Whitestone during the Briarwood arc. His story is deeply intertwined with his sister Vex'ahlia, as they face family reunions and shared traumas together. The character's journey includes the battle against the Chroma Conclave and the final confrontation with the cult of Vecna, after which the Raven Queen takes him to the afterlife.

Reader's Guide

Vax'ildan is a half-elf character played by Liam O'Brien in Critical Role's first campaign. He starts as a rogue and later evolves into a paladin and druid. Key moments include his participation in the Kraghammer arc (episodes 1–16), the Vasselheim missions (episodes 17–23), and the extensive Chroma Conclave conflict (episodes 39–84). He is essential to the party's success in defeating the Briarwoods and ultimately stopping Vecna. His relationship with his twin sister, Vex'ahlia, is a central emotional thread throughout the campaign.