In the vast world of Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, magic spells are the lifeblood of many adventurers, offering a diverse range of effects from healing allies to vanquishing foes. Among the arsenal of divine magic available to clerics, the Guiding Bolt spell stands out as a potent and versatile option, especially at lower levels. This spell is not just about dealing damage; it’s about setting up tactical advantages for your party.
What is Guiding Bolt?
Guiding Bolt is a 1st-level evocation spell that unleashes a streak of radiant energy at a chosen creature within 120 feet. As a ranged spell attack, it requires a successful roll against the target’s armor class (AC) to hit. Upon impact, the target suffers 4d6 radiant damage, a type of damage that is particularly effective against undead and fiends, common enemies in many D&D campaigns.
But the guiding bolt spell offers more than just raw damage. A key feature of this spell is the mystical dim light that glitters on the target after being hit. This isn’t just for flavor; it grants a significant combat advantage. The next attack roll made against the affected target before the end of your next turn gains advantage. This means rolling two d20s and taking the higher result, substantially increasing the chance of a successful hit. This effect makes guiding bolt an excellent spell for setting up powerful attacks from your allies.
Guiding Bolt Attributes
Here’s a breakdown of the key attributes of the Guiding Bolt spell:
- Casting Time: 1 Action
- Range: 120 feet
- Components: Verbal (V), Somatic (S)
- Duration: 1 Round
- Damage: 4d6 radiant
- Damage Type: Radiant
- Spell Level: 1st
- School: Evocation
- Classes: Cleric
- Spell Attack: Ranged Attack
- Target: A creature within range
At Higher Levels: When cast using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the damage of guiding bolt increases by 1d6 for each slot level above 1st. This makes it a spell that remains relevant even as your cleric levels up, providing scaling damage output.
Strategic Use of Guiding Bolt
The guiding bolt spell is a fantastic opening move in combat. By casting it on a priority target, such as a dangerous enemy spellcaster or a heavily armored foe, you not only deal initial damage but also pave the way for your martial characters (fighters, rogues, paladins, etc.) to strike with greater accuracy. The advantage granted by guiding bolt can significantly shift the tide of battle in your party’s favor.
In conclusion, guiding bolt is a must-have spell for any cleric in D&D 5e. Its combination of radiant damage and the advantage-granting effect makes it a strategically valuable spell for both offense and support, embodying the divine power wielded by clerics.
