Is a Cantrip a Leveled Spell? Unpacking the Magic of 5e’s Zero-Level Spells
The question of whether a cantrip is a leveled spell is a common point of confusion for both new and experienced Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e) players. The short answer is: No, a cantrip is not considered a leveled spell. It is, however, a spell with specific rules governing its use. To understand this distinction fully, it’s crucial to grasp the nuances of how cantrips function within the 5e framework.
Understanding Cantrips in 5e
Cantrips are often described as the bread and butter of spellcasting. They represent a fundamental command over magic, honed through practice, and readily available to casters. These spells are identified by a spell level of 0, setting them apart from 1st-level and higher spells. Because of this fundamental difference in level, many mechanics and rules treat cantrips differently from leveled spells.
Cantrips: Not Leveled Spells
While they are indeed spells, cantrips lack the traditional level associated with other magical effects. This distinction is critical because many rules in 5e explicitly reference leveled spells (spells of 1st level or higher). Features that affect or are triggered by leveled spells will not apply to cantrips. This separation has significant implications for spellcasting and character builds.
Key Differences Between Cantrips and Leveled Spells
To fully grasp why cantrips are not leveled spells, let’s look at some key distinctions:
- Spell Level: Cantrips are level 0 spells, while other spells range from 1st to 9th level. This is the most important distinction.
- Spell Slots: Cantrips don’t require spell slots to cast. They can be cast at will, any number of times. Leveled spells, on the other hand, consume spell slots.
- Preparation: Cantrips don’t need to be prepared in advance. They are permanently known by the caster (with exceptions for specific class features). Most leveled spells must be prepared or known according to class rules.
- Scaling: Cantrips scale in damage and other effects as your character level increases (at levels 5, 11, and 17), not your class level. Leveled spells scale by increasing the spell slot they are cast with.
- Use with Bonus Action Spells: If you cast any spell as a bonus action (even a cantrip), the only other spell you can cast that turn is a cantrip with a casting time of one action. This interacts differently with cantrips, allowing for their use where other leveled spells are restricted.
- Class Features: Many class abilities specify they work with a spell or spell slots of 1st level or higher. These abilities do not apply to cantrips unless explicitly stated.
The Role of Cantrips
Cantrips serve as a caster’s reliable form of magical offense and utility. They are designed to be a continuous resource, allowing spellcasters to remain effective even when they’ve exhausted their spell slots. Cantrips provide a baseline level of magical engagement. They’re the magical equivalent of a fighter’s sword swing or a rogue’s sneak attack. This “basic attack” concept allows spellcasters to contribute meaningfully even if they have no other spells left to cast.
15 Frequently Asked Questions About Cantrips
To further clarify the ins and outs of cantrips, here are 15 frequently asked questions with detailed answers:
1. Do cantrips count as spells?
Yes, cantrips are absolutely considered spells. The critical distinction is that they are zero-level spells, not “leveled spells” (1st level or higher).
2. Can you cast two cantrips in one turn?
Yes, you can cast two cantrips in a turn, but only if one of them is cast using a bonus action. If you use an action to cast a cantrip, and another as a bonus action, one or both of those spells may be a cantrip. Remember: if you cast ANY spell as a bonus action, the only spell you can cast with an action that turn is a cantrip with a casting time of 1 action.
3. Do cantrips scale with character level or class level?
Cantrips scale with your character level, not your class level. This means that if you multiclass, your cantrip damage will still increase as your total level goes up, even if your levels in a spellcasting class remain the same.
4. Can you use a cantrip as a bonus action?
Generally, no. Unless you use a specific feature like the Sorcerer’s Metamagic (Quickened Spell), or War Caster Feat, cantrips require an action to cast. Casting a spell with a bonus action (even a cantrip) has restrictions as mentioned above.
5. How many times can you use a cantrip?
You can cast any cantrip you know an unlimited number of times, as long as there are no other restrictions from another feature. This is one of the defining characteristics of a cantrip.
6. Can you change cantrips on level up?
Normally, no. Cantrips are generally a fixed choice. You cannot change a cantrip upon leveling up unless you gain a specific feature that allows you to do so. Most classes do not have this feature.
7. Can you cast a cantrip at a higher or lower level?
No. Cantrips don’t have levels that can be adjusted. They are always cast at spell level 0. Their effects scale with your character level, not by casting them at a higher “spell level” by expending a spell slot.
8. Do cantrips count against the number of spells known?
Cantrips are separate from your spells known. Usually, they are chosen from the list of cantrips your class grants you and cannot be changed (again, unless there is a special class feature that does). Cantrips, unlike leveled spells, do not take up your known spell slots.
9. If you cast a bonus action spell can you also cast a cantrip?
Yes, if you cast any spell, even a cantrip, as a bonus action, you may still cast a cantrip that has a casting time of 1 action as your action during that turn. No other spells can be cast as your action.
10. Can you cast a leveled spell and a cantrip on the same turn?
Yes, but only in a specific circumstance. You cannot cast a level 1 spell or higher and another spell on the same turn. However, if a level 1 or higher spell is cast as a bonus action, then your action spell must be a cantrip with a casting time of one action.
11. Do racial cantrips count against cantrips known?
No. Cantrips granted by your race usually do not count against the cantrips you gain through your class. These racial spells are separate.
12. What class gets the most cantrips?
The Sorcerer starts with the most cantrips, typically 4. Other classes gain fewer cantrips, although some can acquire more through feats or special features.
13. Can you counterspell a cantrip?
Yes, a cantrip is a spell and therefore can be counterspelled.
14. Can you rage and cast cantrips?
No. While raging, you cannot cast spells, including cantrips.
15. Why are cantrips called cantrips?
The term “cantrip” has a slightly mysterious origin. It possibly derives from the Gaelic word “canntaireachd” which means a piper’s mnemonic chant. In general, it refers to a simple trick, a minor spell, or a magical formula that’s often used in a repetitive way.
Conclusion
In summary, while cantrips are indeed spells, they are not considered leveled spells due to their unique level of 0. They are a distinct form of magic, governed by specific rules that set them apart from other spells. Understanding this distinction is vital for properly interpreting 5e’s rules and optimizing your spellcasting strategy. They provide a valuable and consistent resource that shapes the strategic landscape of any campaign. They are the foundational building blocks of any magic-user.