Phantasmal Force 5e D&D Guide : Everything You Need To Know
It’s a very enjoyable spell to play. Phantasmal Force is a very enjoyable ability for spellcasters who are skilled in illusions.
This is usually overlooked in favor of other more damaging spells once you’re at level 2. However, it is a great source of opportunities for role-playing for the right person and group.
The rules for Phantasmal Force can be found in the Player’s Handbook on page 234.
Phantasmal Force 5e
Illusion 2nd level
Time to Cast: 1 Action
Distance: 60 feet
Components: V S, M (A little bit of fleece)
Duration: Concentration up to 1 minute
The illusion you create is rooted inside the brains of the creature you can observe from the distance.
The target must make an Intelligence saving throw. If the save doesn’t succeed, it will create an eerie thing like the creature or visible phenomena of your choice. It’s less than 10 feet in size and only visible to the person affected for the duration. The spell does not affect the undead or any structures.
The phantasm may consist of temperature, sound, and other sensory stimuli that are visible only to the intended creature.
The target could use its actions to examine the phantasm through an Intelligence (Investigation) check against your spell save DC.
If the test is successful, the person who is affected will be aware that the phantasm appeared to be a lie and the spell has ended.
When a person is trapped by the spell, they can experience the illusion as if it were real. The victim rationalizes the absurd effects of engaging in the illusion.
For example, one person who is trying to cross an imaginary bridge which is situated over an infinite gap will fall after the bridge is crossed.
If the target is capable of being thrown down, it will be convinced that it is real, and will provide an alternative explanation for the falling.
It was pulled and it slipped, or a violent gust of wind might have pushed it away.
The person who is affected by the phantasm may not be convinced of the truth of the phantasm. It could even be hurt by the illusion.
A phantasm that is created to appear as an animal could be capable of attacking the person being attacked.
A phantasm made to appear to be flames, a lava pool, or a lake that is filled with acid or lava can cause harm to the person it’s meant to harm.
Each turn, the illusion causes psychic damage equal to 1d6 for the target if it’s within the range of the phantasm and also at least 5ft from the phantasm, as it represents the danger or creature that might theoretically cause harm as an attack.
The target perceives the harm as being akin to the illusion.
Guidelines that apply to Phantasmal Force do a great job of explaining the effects of the spell and what it cannot do.
They also point out the fact that there’s no method to improve the casting ability of the spell, suggesting that it’s an unintentional preparation rather than being a normal one in all the spells created.
This spell’s DC is increased with the player’s level, which means there are benefits in having it on hand when you attain higher levels.
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In what classes are you able to cast Phantasmal Force?
Phantasmal Force is limited to the Bard, Sorcerer, as well as the Great Old One Warlock classes, along with the Wizard fundamental classes.
Phantasmal Force is accessible to the Eldritch Knight and Arcane Trickster sub-classes. Expansion books provided Phantasmal Force to the Genie Warlock, in addition.
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Can Phantasmal Force Restrain?
Phantasmal Force is an illusion. Although it can affect the creature, and possibly cause physical harm, it isn’t able to effectively confine the creature.
The creature’s mind would be in a position to justify its capacity to move about or protect itself from another source, but it wouldn’t be able to see through the illusion.
For instance, a creature who experiences Phantasmal Force that detects spider webs, may be tempted to believe that it’s trapped within the webs and isn’t able to move.
But, if it’s conscious of an assault via a distinct source, it can defend itself.
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Does Phantasmal Force Cause the Target to go Prone?
Similar to trying to control the beast, physical force is not a way to cause a creature to go down.
Yet, an image that can create an atmosphere in which the subject can fall is a possibility. The illusion of an uneven surface or falling ceiling might be a possibility.
There’s no specifics provided to restrain animals or force them to commit suicide by Phantasmal Force.
It’s up to the DM to decide on the significance. It’s still possible to cause harm in the event that the desired result cannot be accomplished.
Phantasmal Force makes for a great spell, but it’s not one that is used at higher levels unless the character is adept in illusions or has an option to add flavor.
Its limited damage output as well as its small effect, along with the saving DC, generally suggest that it would be better off swapping out for a more powerful 2nd or 3rd level spell.
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What can Phantasmal Force Do?
- Create the appearance of a monster that is threatening the victim
- Create an illusion detrimental to the target, such as fire
- Create illusions of black space in the direction of the creature, so that it blocks its view
- Make illusion of pits which causes the opponent to suffer fall-related injury
Phantasmal Force happens to be an illusion spell and like any illusion spell, it is as efficient as long as the DM will allow it to be.
It’s crucial to discuss the potential consequences with your DM when it’s going to be used often.
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Final Words
Illusion spells are fun to use, and Phantasmal Force is no different. It’s a destructive illusion spell that has almost no limit to the effects it can create.
It’s a lot of fun. But, it’s a subjective concept and will only be as accurate according to the player’s description, as well as the DM’s willingness to play.
Illusion spells can bring lots of flavor to playing the sport. They may provide some of the more creative ways to play.