Within the vast tapestry of Dungeons & Dragons spells, a select few stand out as indispensable tools for any wizard. These spells offer potent versatility, unmatched damage potential, or game-changing utility, making them must-haves for any wizard seeking to reach the pinnacle of arcane power. From the iconic Fireball to the mind-boggling Maze, these spells will empower wizards to control the battlefield, reshape reality, and outwit their foes.
One of the most iconic spells in D&D, Fireball is a devastating evocation that deals immense fire damage to multiple creatures within its area of effect. Its sheer destructive power makes it an excellent choice for eliminating large groups of enemies or softening up powerful foes before engaging in melee combat. Alternatively, the spell Wall of Force offers unmatched defensive capabilities, creating an impenetrable barrier that can block enemy movement and protect allies. Its versatility extends to both combat and non-combat situations, making it a valuable tool for controlling the battlefield and outmaneuvering opponents.
For those seeking to control the minds of their adversaries, Dominate Person is an enchantment spell that allows the caster to take control of a humanoid creature’s actions. This power can be used to turn enemies against each other, extract information, or simply incapacitate a foe. Moreover, the spell Maze transports a creature to another plane of existence, effectively removing them from the battle and giving the wizard valuable time to regroup or prepare for the next encounter. Its utility in both combat and social situations makes Maze a highly coveted spell among wizards seeking to outsmart their enemies and control the flow of events.
The Arcane Orb: Illuminating Darkness with Raw Elemental Energy
The Arcane Orb is a versatile cantrip that empowers wizards to unleash a surge of elemental energy, piercing through darkness and illuminating their surroundings. As a bonus action, the caster summons a small orb of arcane energy that hovers near them for up to an hour. The orb sheds bright light in a 20-foot radius and dim light for an additional 20 feet.
Unveiling the Arcane Orb’s Capabilities
Beyond its illuminating properties, the Arcane Orb possesses inherent magical abilities. The caster can hurl the orb as a ranged spell attack, targeting a creature or object within 60 feet. Upon impact, the orb deals 1d6 force damage to the target. Furthermore, the orb’s elemental nature can be enhanced, altering its damage type to acid, cold, fire, lightning, or thunder. This flexibility allows the wizard to adapt to various combat situations, exploiting vulnerabilities in their adversaries’ defenses.
Additional Details
|
| Level: |
Cantrip |
| Casting Time: |
1 bonus action |
| Range: |
60 feet (projectile) |
| Target: |
Creature or object |
| Duration: |
Up to 1 hour |
The Fireball: A Devastating Catalyst of Fiery Destruction
The Fireball spell is a classic staple of the wizard’s arsenal, known for its unmatched destructive potential and versatility. With its immense radius of devastation, the Fireball can incinerate multiple enemies at once, making it an ideal weapon for clearing hordes of foes or softening up heavily armored targets. Its magical nature also bypasses physical resistances, ensuring its effectiveness against even the most formidable enemies.
A Versatile Tool for Various Occasions
The Fireball spell offers unparalleled versatility due to its adjustable damage radius. Wizards can opt for a smaller radius to minimize collateral damage or concentrate its destructive force within a narrower area for maximum impact. This flexibility allows wizards to tailor the spell to specific tactical situations, maximizing its efficiency in both close-quarters combat and open-field engagements.
Moreover, the Fireball spell is not solely limited to battlefield encounters. Its potential extends to problem-solving and exploration. Whether it’s clearing a path through a dense forest or igniting a ritual fire, the Fireball’s destructive power proves invaluable in a multitude of situations. Its adaptability makes it an indispensable tool for any wizard seeking both offensive might and utility.
Key Attributes of the Fireball Spell
| Attribute |
Effect |
| Spell Level |
3rd-level evocation |
| Casting Time |
1 action |
| Range |
150 feet |
| Components |
V, S, M (a tiny ball of bat guano and sulfur) |
| Duration |
Instantaneous |
| Damage |
8d6 fire damage |
| Area of Effect |
20-foot radius |
The Shield: Bastion of Protection in the Face of Adversity
The Shield spell, a beloved staple of D&D’s spellbook, stands as an indispensable tool of defense and survival for the wizardly adventurer. Its unwavering reliability and versatility cement its position among the most essential spells in the game.
Mechanics of the Shield Spell
The Shield spell manifests as an ethereal barrier, blocking incoming attacks with remarkable efficiency. Cast as a reaction to being hit by an attack, it grants the wizard a +5 bonus to their AC until the start of their next turn. This bonus is particularly valuable in two scenarios:
1. **Protecting against critical hits:** The +5 bonus to AC reduces the likelihood of an attack scoring a critical hit, potentially mitigating substantial damage.
2. **Preventing spell damage:** The Shield spell can also block the damage from spell attacks, adding an extra layer of protection against magical threats.
| Level |
Casting Time |
Range |
Components |
Duration |
| 1 |
1 reaction |
Self |
V, S, M (a small, smooth stone) |
Until the start of your next turn |
The Counterspell: Defending Against Magical Onslaught
Counterspell emerged as a prevalent wizard spell in D&D 5e, empowering spellcasters with an unparalleled ability to deter enemy magic. Its significance stems from its versatility in countering virtually any spell cast at 3rd level or lower. However, casting Counterspell requires a reaction, demanding prompt decision-making from the wizard.
Components and Casting
To cast Counterspell, a wizard requires only verbal and somatic components. The wizard must speak an incantation while making swift gestures. Casting time is instant, allowing for immediate response against opposing spells.
Mechanics
Once cast, Counterspell effectively negates an incoming spell of 3rd level or lower. The wizard must succeed on an ability check using their spellcasting ability (Intelligence) against a DC set by the opponent’s spellcasting ability modifier + the level of the spell they are attempting to counter. The target spell’s level may be higher than the wizard’s Counterspell, but the ability check will determine the success or failure of the countermeasure.
| Target Spell Level |
Counterspell Ability Check DC |
| 1st |
11 |
| 2nd |
13 |
| 3rd |
15 |
The Banishment: Exiling Unwanted Presences to Otherworldly Realms
Banishment, a hardy spell, is a fourth-level abjuration that magically transports an extraplanar creature back to its home plane. When the spell is cast, the target creature must make a Charisma saving throw. If it fails the saving throw, it is instantaneously banished. If it succeeds on the saving throw, it is not banished.
If the target creature is native to the plane of existence where the spell is cast, the spell instead banishes the target to a harmless demiplane. The target remains there for the duration of the spell, or until it uses an action to make a Charisma saving throw. If it succeeds on the saving throw, it can return to its home plane.
Banishment is a powerful spell that can be used to remove unwanted creatures from an area. It is particularly effective against extraplanar creatures, which are often vulnerable to being banished back to their home planes.
| Spellcasting Ability |
Charisma |
| Components |
V, S, M (a small silver rod worth at least 10 gp) |
| Range/Area |
60 feet |
| Duration |
1 minute |
| Casting Time |
1 action |
| Targets |
One creature you can see within range |
The Nine Hells
The Nine Hells, which sometimes referred to simply as Hell, is a complex and dangerous plane. It is ruled by the nine Archdevils, each of whom controls one of the Hells’ nine layers. The Hells are a place of eternal torment and suffering, and those who die within their confines are doomed to spend eternity there.
The Layers of Hell
The Nine Hells are divided into nine layers, each of which is ruled by one of the Archdevils. These layers are listed below in order from the uppermost to the lowest:
| Layer |
Ruler |
| Avernus |
Zariel |
| Dis |
Dispater |
| Minauros |
Mammon |
| Phlegethos |
Fierna |
| Stygia |
Levistus |
| Malbolge |
Glasya |
| Nessus |
Belial |
| Cania |
Mephistopheles |
| Baator |
Asmodeus |
The Archdevils
The Archdevils are the nine most powerful beings in the Nine Hells. Each of them rules one of the Hells’ nine layers and commands a vast army of demons. The Archdevils are extremely powerful and dangerous, and they are always looking for ways to increase their power and influence.
The most powerful of the Archdevils is Asmodeus, the Lord of the Ninth Hell. Asmodeus is a cunning and ambitious devil who is constantly scheming to increase his power. He is also the master of the Pact Primeval, a powerful contract that allows mortals to sell their souls to him in exchange for power.
The Haste: Accelerating Allies to Unrivaled Speed and Agility
The Haste spell is an iconic enchantment that enhances the physical prowess of one or more allies, granting them an unparalleled burst of speed and agility. By casting this spell, a wizard can bestow upon their companions the power to move with exceptional swiftness, perform nimble maneuvers, and strike with lightning-fast reflexes.
Enhanced Movement
Haste grants targets a bonus to their speed, allowing them to traverse the battlefield with audacious celerity. Whether traversing treacherous terrain, dodging enemy attacks, or pursuing fleeing foes, the recipients of this enchantment gain a distinct advantage in mobility.
Accelerated Actions
In addition to increased speed, Haste also accelerates the actions of its targets. They gain an extra action on each of their turns, empowering them to perform a wider array of maneuvers, such as casting multiple spells, making multiple attacks, or utilizing special abilities more frequently.
Improved Dexterity
The spell grants a bonus to targets’ Dexterity scores, enhancing their agility, reflexes, and initiative. This improvement aids them in evading enemy strikes, maintaining balance in precarious situations, and executing precise attacks with finesse and accuracy.
Bonus Initiative
Haste boosts initiative rolls for its targets, giving them an edge in combat encounters. This advantage ensures that the beneficiaries of the spell are more likely to act before their adversaries, allowing them to seize initiative and gain a tactical advantage.
Sustained Defense
Despite its focus on offense, Haste also provides a defensive benefit. The extra actions granted by the spell can be used to cast protective spells, bolster defenses, or disengage from combat, enhancing the survivability of its targets.
Strategic Versatility
Haste is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit various combat situations. It can be used to empower frontline fighters, granting them the speed and agility to overwhelm opponents or escape dangerous predicaments. It can also be cast on spellcasters, allowing them to unleash multiple powerful spells in a single turn.
Stat Bonuses
The Haste spell grants the following bonuses to its targets:
| Bonus |
Value |
| Speed |
+30 ft. |
| Actions |
+1 |
| Dexterity |
+2 |
| Initiative |
+2 |
The Mage Armor: Fortifying the Body Against Physical and Arcane Threats
Duration and Concentration
Mage Armor lasts for 8 hours, providing a constant barrier against attacks. It requires concentration, meaning you can maintain other spells while it’s active, but if you lose concentration, the armor dispels.
Spellcasting Time and Range
Casting Mage Armor is quick, taking only one action. The range of the spell is Self, allowing you to cast it on yourself without any additional components.
Armor Class Bonus
Mage Armor grants an AC bonus of 13 + your Dexterity modifier. This bonus applies over any armor you might already be wearing, effectively increasing your overall AC by a significant amount.
Caster Level
At higher caster levels, the AC bonus provided by Mage Armor increases. At level 11, it becomes 14 + your Dexterity modifier, and at level 17, it reaches 15 + your Dexterity modifier.
Material Component
Mage Armor requires a material component of a piece of flexible metal, such as a chain shirt or a breastplate. This component is not consumed by the spell.
Physical and Arcane Protection
The Mage Armor spell not only provides protection against physical attacks, but also against arcane threats. It helps defend against spells that deal elemental or psychic damage, making it a versatile defensive option.
Value to Wizards
Mage Armor is an invaluable spell for wizards, especially low-level wizards who typically have low AC. By casting Mage Armor, wizards can increase their AC and enhance their survivability in combat.
Synergies with Other Spells
Mage Armor synergizes well with other spells that increase AC or provide defensive benefits. For example, casting Mage Armor and Shield on yourself can significantly boost your overall AC, making you even more difficult to hit.
The Telekinesis: Controlling Objects from Afar with Unseen Force
Telekinesis, the wizard spell that bestows the power to manipulate objects from afar using unseen force, offers immense versatility in both combat and exploration.
Range and Duration
Telekinesis has a range of 60 feet and lasts for up to 10 minutes. During this time, the caster can control one object weighing up to 1,000 pounds.
Multiple Objects (Optional Rule)
Some versions of the spell allow wizards to control multiple objects at once, with the maximum weight limit increasing by 500 pounds per additional object.
Movement and Fine Manipulation
Telekinesis can be used to move objects in three dimensions, including lifting, lowering, and pushing. It can also be used for precise manipulation, such as turning a key or opening a door.
Combining Telekinesis
Telekinesis can be combined with other spells to create powerful effects. For example, it can be used to hold an ally in place while casting a healing spell or to push an enemy into a hazard.
Table: Telekinesis Details
| Range |
Duration |
Object Weight
| Maximum Objects (Optional) |
| 60 feet |
Up to 10 minutes |
1,000 pounds |
+500 pounds per additional object |
The Conjure Animals: Summoning Nature’s Wrath in the Form of Animal Companions
Cast at the 3rd level, Conjure Animals is a powerful summoning spell that allows the caster to conjure a group of eight creatures from the animal kingdom to aid them in battle. These creatures can be any combination of beasts, fey, or monstrosities, and they each have their own unique abilities and statistics.
The creatures summoned by Conjure Animals are all friendly to the caster and will follow their commands. They can be used to attack enemies, defend allies, or scout the surrounding area. The caster can also choose to have the creatures take specific actions, such as attacking a certain target or moving to a certain location.
Conjure Animals is a versatile spell that can be used in a variety of situations. It is a great way to quickly and easily add some extra firepower to your party, and it can also be used to scout ahead or provide a distraction.
Here are some of the most popular animal options for Conjure Animals:
| CREATURE |
TYPE |
CR |
HP |
AC |
ATTACKS |
| Wolf |
Beast |
1/4 |
11 |
14 |
Bite +2 (1d6+2 slashing) |
| Panther |
Beast |
1/2 |
18 |
15 |
Bite +3 (1d6+3 slashing), Claw +3 (1d4+3 slashing) |
| Ape |
Beast |
1/2 |
19 |
14 |
Unarmed Strike +3 (1d6+3 bludgeoning) |
| Giant Badger |
Beast |
1/2 |
21 |
14 |
Bite +4 (1d8+4 piercing), Claw +4 (1d6+4 slashing) |
| Giant Constrictor Snake |
Beast |
1/2 |
22 |
14 |
Bite +5 (1d8+5 slashing), Constrict +5 (1d6+5 bludgeoning) |
| Brown Bear |
Beast |
1 |
34 |
15 |
Bite +5 (2d6+5 slashing), Claw +5 (2d4+5 slashing) |
| Cougar |
Beast |
1 |
34 |
15 |
Bite +5 (2d6+5 slashing), Claw +5 (2d4+5 slashing) |
| Dire Wolf |
Beast |
1 |
37 |
16 |
Bite +6 (2d6+6 slashing) |
5 Best Wizard Spells in Dungeons & Dragons 5e
Wizards are one of the most versatile classes in Dungeons & Dragons 5e, with access to a wide range of spells that can be used to control the battlefield, deal damage, or support their allies. While every spell has its strengths and weaknesses, there are a few spells that consistently stand out as some of the best wizard spells in the game.
These five spells are all powerful and versatile, and they can be used effectively in a variety of situations. Whether you’re blasting enemies with fireballs or controlling the battlefield with summoned creatures, these spells will help you become a force to be reckoned with.
- Fireball
Fireball is a classic wizard spell that is still one of the best damage spells in the game. It deals 8d6 fire damage to all creatures within a 20-foot radius, making it perfect for clearing out groups of enemies.
- Counterspell
Counterspell is a must-have spell for any wizard who wants to be able to control the flow of battle. It allows you to counter any other spell that you see being cast, effectively shutting down your enemies’ spellcasting.
- Summon Elemental
Summon Elemental is a powerful spell that allows you to summon a creature from the elemental plane to fight for you. These creatures can be used to deal damage, tank hits, or control the battlefield with their special abilities.
- Polymorph
Polymorph is a versatile spell that can be used to turn a creature into another creature of the same size. This can be used to give yourself or your allies an advantage in combat, or to disguise yourself or them to infiltrate enemy territory.
- Shield
Shield is a simple but effective spell that grants you a +5 bonus to AC until the start of your next turn. This can be a lifesaver in combat, especially if you’re facing a tough enemy that is likely to hit you.
People Also Ask
What are the best wizard spells for beginners?
Some of the best wizard spells for beginners include Magic Missile, Burning Hands, Sleep, and Mage Armor. These spells are all relatively simple to cast and can be used effectively in a variety of situations.
What are the best wizard spells for damage?
Some of the best wizard spells for damage include Fireball, Lightning Bolt, Cone of Cold, and Disintegrate. These spells are all capable of dealing significant damage to single targets or groups of enemies.
What are the best wizard spells for control?
Some of the best wizard spells for control include Web, Hold Person, Hypnotic Pattern, and Dominate Person. These spells can be used to immobilize or control enemies, making them ideal for setting up your allies for attacks or preventing the enemy from casting spells.
