What Spells Can Be Cast as a Reaction in D&D?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The question of which spells can be cast as a reaction in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e) is a crucial one for any spellcaster. Reaction spells are unique; they’re not cast on your turn like action or bonus action spells, but in response to a specific trigger. These triggers can range from being hit by an attack to witnessing an enemy cast a spell. Understanding how reaction spells work and which ones exist is essential to maximizing a spellcaster’s effectiveness and survivability.
The straightforward answer is this: Any spell explicitly described as having a casting time of ‘1 reaction’ can be cast as a reaction. The specific trigger for that reaction is also defined in the spell’s description. These triggers are diverse, encompassing various battlefield events. It’s vital to carefully read the description of each spell to determine under which circumstances it can be used.
Understanding Reaction Spells
Reaction spells are a vital component of spellcasting, allowing you to respond to threats in real-time. Unlike action spells, which you cast on your turn, reaction spells are cast in response to a specific trigger that occurs usually on someone else’s turn. This timing is crucial for their effect, enabling you to deflect attacks, interrupt spells, or mitigate damage.
Defining Triggers
Each reaction spell is explicitly linked to a specific trigger. Common triggers include:
- Being hit by an attack: Spells like Shield and Hellish Rebuke activate when you are targeted or damaged by an attack.
- An enemy casting a spell: Spells like Counterspell allow you to interrupt another spellcaster’s magic.
- Falling: Feather Fall is a classic example, activating when you fall or when a creature within range falls.
- Taking damage of a specific type: Absorb Elements allows you to lessen elemental damage and increase the damage of a subsequent attack.
- When a creature makes a saving throw: Silvery Barbs can be used to impose disadvantage and also grants advantage to another creature.
The Importance of Timing
Reaction spells are often very powerful and game-changing when used at the right time. If you do not react the moment the trigger occurs, you lose the opportunity to cast the reaction spell. It’s vital to be aware of your surroundings and ready to use your reaction when the right opportunity presents itself.
Limitations on Reactions
Importantly, you only have one reaction available per round. This means that if you use your reaction to cast Shield, you can’t then use your reaction to cast Counterspell during the same round, even if another trigger occurs. You must choose wisely how and when to use your reaction. Your reaction resets at the start of your next turn. This limitation requires careful planning and strategic thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify the ins and outs of reaction spells, here are 15 frequently asked questions:
Can I cast a reaction spell as an action?
No, you cannot cast a reaction spell as a normal action. Reactions are always tied to a specific trigger. Unless that trigger occurs during the timeframe of your action, you cannot cast a reaction spell. For example, you cannot cast Shield as an action; you must wait until you are attacked.
Can cantrips be cast as a reaction?
No, cantrips cannot be cast as a reaction. Only spells with a casting time specifically listed as ‘1 reaction’ can be used as reactions. Cantrips have casting times that are usually one action.
Can I cast two spells in the same turn if one is a reaction?
Yes, you can cast two spells in the same turn, provided one is a reaction and you haven’t cast a leveled spell as a bonus action. For example, you could cast Fireball (action) and Shield (reaction) on the same turn.
Can I use a spell scroll as a reaction?
Yes, you can use a spell scroll as a reaction if the spell on the scroll is a reaction spell. For example, if you have a spell scroll containing Shield, you can use it as your reaction when you’re hit by an attack.
Can I counterspell a counterspell?
Yes, you can counterspell a counterspell. If an enemy uses Counterspell to interrupt your spell, you can use your reaction to Counterspell their Counterspell. This is sometimes called a “Counter-Counterspell” battle.
Do clerics have reaction spells?
Clerics don’t inherently possess many spells that are reactions in the official spell lists. However, certain feats or magic items can grant them access to reaction-based abilities or spells. Some feats, such as Premonition of Avoidance and Rapid Response, can provide cleric with a reaction option, though they tend to be limited and conditional. Additionally, the Shield Block feat provides a very useful defensive reaction.
Can I counterspell on my turn after casting another spell?
Yes, you can counterspell on your turn as long as you haven’t already cast another spell with a casting time of 1 bonus action. The rule you might be thinking of pertains to bonus action spells. If you cast a bonus action spell, you can only use your action to cast a cantrip. This does not restrict your ability to use your reaction on your turn.
Do reaction spells have to be prepared?
Yes, reaction spells must be prepared if you are playing a class that uses prepared spells (like a cleric or wizard). If your class uses “spells known” system (such as sorcerers and warlocks), you simply must have that reaction spell in your spells known.
Is Defensive Duelist a reaction?
Yes, Defensive Duelist is a reaction. With this feat, when you are hit by a melee attack while wielding a finesse weapon, you can use your reaction to add your proficiency bonus to your AC.
Can I use a bonus action as a reaction?
No, you cannot use a bonus action as a reaction and vice-versa. Bonus actions and reactions are two distinct types of actions, and they follow different rules.
Can you react to a reaction?
Yes, you can react to a reaction, as long as you have not used your reaction yet in the current round. For example, if an enemy casts Hellish Rebuke as a reaction, you can use your own reaction to cast a spell like Shield or another Hellish Rebuke in response.
Can I cast Shield as a reaction after being hit?
Yes, you can cast Shield as a reaction even after being hit. If you are struck by an attack, you can use your reaction to cast Shield to potentially change the attack into a miss. This means the attack that hit you is essentially retroactively nullified, in a sense.
Can you cast a spell as an action, then use your reaction?
Yes, you can cast a spell as an action and then use your reaction. Your action and reaction occur independently of each other, as long as no bonus action spell casting limits your action spell to be a cantrip.
Can a cantrip be on a spell scroll?
Yes, a cantrip can be on a spell scroll. Cantrip scrolls are not excluded from copying rules for spellbooks.
Can I cast two cantrips in one round?
You can cast as many cantrips in a round as you have actions. However, if you cast a spell with a level of 1st or higher as an action, you cannot use a bonus action to cast any other spell, including a cantrip. Also, if you cast a spell with a casting time of 1 bonus action, you cannot use your action to cast any spell that is not a cantrip. If no bonus action spells are cast on your turn, you can use your reaction to cast a spell and this would not be limited to just cantrips.
Conclusion
Reaction spells are a cornerstone of tactical gameplay in D&D 5e. Understanding when and how to use them can significantly impact the outcome of battles. Knowing which spells can be cast as a reaction, along with the associated limitations, is key to being a successful and versatile spellcaster. Mastering the use of reaction spells will make any character a force to be reckoned with.