Can You Cast Invisibility on Yourself? A Deep Dive into D&D’s Vanishing Act

Yes, absolutely! According to the core rules of Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) 5th Edition, you can indeed cast the Invisibility spell on yourself. The spell’s description clearly states that it targets “You or a creature you touch,” and unless a spell specifically restricts targeting yourself, or requires a hostile target, you are a perfectly valid recipient. So, if you’re a Bard, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard, or Artificer with the Invisibility spell prepared, feel free to make yourself disappear!

Understanding the Invisibility Spell in 5e

Let’s break down the Invisibility spell to fully understand how it works and how it affects you when you cast it on yourself:

• Spell Description: “A creature you touch becomes invisible until the spell ends. Anything the target is wearing or carrying is invisible as long as it is on the target’s person. The spell ends for a target that attacks or casts a spell.”

• Targeting: The flexibility in targeting is key. The spell allows you to target either yourself or another creature you touch. This makes it versatile for both solo stealth and aiding your party members.

• Duration and Limitations: The invisibility lasts until the spell ends, which could be due to its duration expiring, the target attacking, or the target casting a spell. Note that certain actions, like moving or interacting with objects, do not break the Invisibility spell.

• Gear: Crucially, anything you are wearing or carrying also becomes invisible as long as it remains on your person. This includes your armor, weapons, backpack, and any other equipment. A common mistake is assuming you need to drop your equipment to remain hidden, but the spell specifically covers this.

FAQs About Casting Invisibility in 5e

Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to further clarify the intricacies of the Invisibility spell and its application:

H3 Can I cast Invisibility on an object?

No. The spell’s description explicitly states that it targets “You or a creature you touch.” This makes it clear that objects are ineligible targets for the Invisibility spell.

H3 What classes can learn the Invisibility spell?

Several classes have access to the Invisibility spell. These include Bards, Sorcerers, Warlocks, Wizards, and even Artificers. The availability of the spell contributes to its widespread use in campaigns.

H3 Does attacking break Invisibility if I cast it on myself?

Yes. One of the most crucial aspects of the Invisibility spell is that it ends for a target that attacks. Therefore, if you cast the spell on yourself and then initiate an attack, the spell immediately ends. This limitation encourages strategic use of the spell for infiltration, scouting, and escape, rather than offensive combat.

H3 Does casting a spell break Invisibility if I cast it on myself?

Yes, similar to attacking, casting another spell also ends the Invisibility spell. This presents a tactical challenge: you must carefully consider whether the advantage of invisibility outweighs the ability to cast another spell. The Games Learning Society offers resources to better understand the strategic depth of spells.

H3 If I cast Invisibility on myself, will my familiar also become invisible?

No, unless you also cast the Invisibility spell on your familiar. The spell only affects “You or a creature you touch,” and your familiar is a separate creature. If you wish to make your familiar invisible as well, you would need to expend another spell slot.

H3 Can someone with Truesight see me if I am invisible?

Yes. Truesight explicitly allows a creature to see invisible creatures within its visual range. If a creature possesses Truesight, your invisibility will not conceal you from them.

H3 If I am invisible, can I still be heard?

Yes. The Invisibility spell only affects visual perception. Creatures can still hear you, smell you, and detect you through other senses. Maintaining silence is crucial to remain undetected while invisible.

H3 Can I Hide while I am invisible?

Yes, often you can. Being invisible grants you advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks. However, you still need a place to hide. Even invisible, if you are standing in plain sight in an empty room, you cannot hide.

H3 Does moving break Invisibility?

No. Moving around does not break the Invisibility spell. You can freely move while invisible, as long as you do not attack or cast a spell.

H3 Does interacting with objects break Invisibility?

No. Interacting with objects, such as opening a door or picking up an item, does not break the Invisibility spell. The spell is only broken by attacking or casting another spell.

H3 If I cast Invisibility on myself and then fall unconscious, do I remain invisible?

Yes. Unless the spell’s duration expires or another condition causes it to end, you will remain invisible even if you fall unconscious. However, creatures might still be able to detect you through other senses.

H3 If another character casts a spell that targets me while I am invisible, does it break the spell?

No, being the target of a spell does not break your invisibility. Only casting a spell yourself breaks it. This distinction is essential for understanding how to coordinate actions with allies while remaining hidden.

H3 Can Devil’s Sight see through Invisibility?

No. Despite its name, Devil’s Sight grants the ability to see in magical darkness, but it doesn’t inherently allow seeing invisible creatures. Truesight, as mentioned previously, is required to see through invisibility.

H3 Can an invisible character see other invisible characters?

The rules are silent on this issue, thus it is left to the DM to adjudicate. However, many argue that, in general, two invisible characters will not be able to see each other. This is because Invisibility bends light around the creature, and the light has to reach your eyes for you to see anything.

H3 Can you cast Stoneskin on yourself?

Yes. According to the statement, “If a spell targets a creature of your choice, you can choose yourself, unless the creature must be hostile or specifically a creature other than you.” and because the text does not mention that stoneskin can’t be cast on yourself, you can cast it on yourself.

Mastering the Art of Invisibility

The Invisibility spell is a powerful tool in the hands of any D&D character. By understanding its mechanics, limitations, and applications, you can effectively use it for reconnaissance, infiltration, escape, and even strategic positioning in combat. Remember that teamwork, careful planning, and a good understanding of the environment are key to maximizing the benefits of invisibility.

To further enhance your understanding of D&D’s rules and mechanics, consider exploring resources from organizations like the GamesLearningSociety.org. These platforms offer valuable insights into the nuances of the game and can help you become a more strategic and effective player.