Do Bards Get Invisibility in D&D 5e? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, bards in D&D 5e can indeed learn the Invisibility spell. It’s a staple spell for many classes that rely on trickery, stealth, and strategic positioning. Invisibility is a 2nd-level illusion spell, placing it well within the bard’s magical repertoire as they level up. Bards gain access to spells from other classes through Magical Secrets, and access to invisibility through the bard spell list. This opens up numerous tactical options for the bard, both in and out of combat. Let’s explore this magical option in detail and answer some frequently asked questions!
The Allure of Invisibility: Why Bards Need It
Invisibility is a powerful tool for any adventurer, and the bard is no exception. Here’s why this spell is a must-have for any aspiring master of song and subterfuge:
- Stealth and Scouting: Bards are often the party’s face, and sometimes that means needing to sneak into places undetected. Invisibility allows them to gather information, scout ahead, or bypass dangerous encounters altogether.
- Strategic Repositioning: In combat, invisibility can allow a bard to reposition themselves to a safer location or gain a better vantage point for casting spells.
- Social Intrigue: From eavesdropping on conversations to slipping past guards at a noble’s estate, invisibility is a potent asset for any bard engaging in social maneuvering.
- Emergency Escape: When things go south, invisibility can provide a quick and discreet way to escape a dangerous situation.
- Creative Roleplaying: The possibilities are endless when you add invisibility to a bard’s repertoire. Think pranks, illusions, and other creative uses that enhance the roleplaying experience.
Invisibility: The Spell Deconstructed
The Invisibility spell in 5e has some specific rules:
- Level: 2nd-level Illusion
- Casting Time: 1 Action
- Range: Touch
- Components: V, S, M (an eyelash encased in gum arabic)
- Duration: Up to 1 hour
- Effect: 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.
The most important thing to remember is that attacking or casting a spell breaks the invisibility. This means that the bard must use the spell strategically, considering when to remain hidden and when to break cover.
FAQs: Invisibility and the Bard
Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about invisibility and how it relates to the bard class:
Can a bard cast Invisibility on themselves?
Yes, the Invisibility spell has a range of “touch,” which means the bard can target themselves. This is a common and effective use of the spell.
Does invisibility grant advantage on attack rolls?
No, invisibility doesn’t automatically grant advantage on attack rolls. However, it does grant advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks, making it easier to hide. If the bard remains hidden, they can gain advantage on their attack rolls by using the rules for attacking from hiding.
Can a bard maintain invisibility while playing an instrument?
Yes, playing an instrument does not break invisibility. The bard can serenade from the shadows without revealing their presence. Performance checks while invisible are still subject to normal visibility rules, so be sure to hide first!
What happens if a bard casts a spell that doesn’t have a visible effect while invisible?
The Invisibility spell specifically states that it ends when the target “attacks or casts a spell.” The wording isn’t dependent on the spell’s effect, so any spellcasting breaks invisibility. Some DMs might make exceptions for very minor effects, but this is up to their discretion.
Can a bard use a magic item while invisible without breaking the spell?
It depends on the magic item. If using the item involves casting a spell or making an attack, it will break invisibility. If it’s a simple action that doesn’t involve spellcasting, it might not. The DM will need to make a ruling based on the specific item.
Does moving while invisible give away a bard’s location?
Being invisible makes you heavily obscured, granting advantage on Stealth checks. However, creatures can still hear you and might be able to track your movements if you’re not careful. A successful Stealth check is crucial for remaining undetected.
What spells can reveal an invisible bard?
Several spells can reveal an invisible creature, including:
- See Invisibility: This spell allows the caster to see invisible creatures and objects.
- Faerie Fire: This spell outlines creatures in an area with light, negating invisibility.
- Detect Magic: While it won’t reveal the invisible creature’s location, it will detect the presence of magic.
- True Seeing: This spell allows the caster to see things as they truly are, including invisible creatures and illusions.
Are there any bard subclasses that synergize particularly well with invisibility?
Yes, the College of Whispers bard subclass benefits greatly from invisibility. Their Words of Terror feature allows them to frighten a creature by whispering to them after being out of combat. Combining this with invisibility allows the bard to get close undetected.
How does the invisibility spell interact with the bard’s Counterspell ability?
If an invisible bard attempts to use Counterspell, it will break their invisibility since Counterspell is indeed a spell. It’s a trade-off between negating an enemy spell and maintaining your hidden state.
Can a bard use the Invisibility spell to hide from creatures with blindsight?
No, creatures with blindsight can perceive their surroundings without relying on sight. Invisibility only makes you visually undetectable, so it won’t work against blindsight. Other senses such as sound or smell may still require stealth checks to be effective against them.
Does casting Greater Invisibility also break when you cast spells?
No, Greater Invisibility is a higher-level spell that doesn’t end when you attack or cast a spell. This makes it a far more powerful option for maintaining invisibility during combat or other actions.
If a bard is invisible and casts Suggestion, what happens?
Casting Suggestion breaks the regular Invisibility spell. However, if the bard were using Greater Invisibility, it would not be broken, and the target would not know who cast the spell.
Can an invisible bard use their Bardic Inspiration without revealing themselves?
Yes, using Bardic Inspiration does not break the Invisibility spell. Bardic Inspiration is a class feature, not a spell, so it doesn’t trigger the spell’s ending condition.
How does Create or Destroy Water affect an invisible bard?
If an invisible bard is subjected to the Create or Destroy Water spell, the water created could reveal their location by clinging to them and making their outline visible, or the sudden removal of water from around them could create a noticeable disturbance, potentially giving away their position.
What races can turn invisible, and do they affect the bard class?
Several races have features that grant invisibility or enhance stealth, such as Duergar, Firbolg, Wood Elf/Half Elf (with specific subraces or feats), Glasya Tiefling, and Lightfoot Halfling. These racial traits can complement a bard’s stealth abilities, but they don’t fundamentally change how the Invisibility spell works for them. The Games Learning Society emphasizes creative problem solving, skills that can be honed by using invisibility creatively.
Where can I find more information about the D&D rules?
For comprehensive information on D&D 5e rules, consult the Player’s Handbook, Dungeon Master’s Guide, and Monster Manual. You can also find resources and discussions on websites like D&D Beyond and GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion: Embrace the Shadows
Invisibility is a fantastic addition to any bard’s toolkit, offering a range of tactical and roleplaying possibilities. By understanding the spell’s mechanics and limitations, a bard can effectively use invisibility to gain the upper hand in various situations, from sneaking into enemy territory to enhancing their performance on stage. So, embrace the shadows, hone your stealth skills, and let invisibility become a key part of your bard’s repertoire.