Can you cast darkness on an enemy’s weapon?

Can You Cast Darkness on an Enemy’s Weapon?

As a player, it’s natural to wonder if you can cast darkness on an enemy’s weapon, creating an unsettling and formidable foe. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of 5th edition Dungeons & Dragons to explore the possibilities of casting darkness on an enemy’s weapon.

Can You Cast Darkness on an Object?

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s clarify the spellcasting rules. According to the Darkness spell description, it targets a point in space or a point on an object that you are carrying or isn’t being worn or carried. This means you can cast darkness on an object you have in your possession, but what about an enemy’s weapon?

The Rule of Objects

In the Xanathar’s Guide to Everything (page 152), it’s written that "Magical darkness spreads from a point you choose within range to fill a 15-foot radius sphere for the duration. The darkness spreads around corners, and it’s easy to lose sight of even a familiar location." However, it doesn’t specify whether this applies to objects or not.

Exception: Objects You Can See

The Xanathar’s Guide to Everything also states that "You can see through the darkness to see objects and creatures in it." This means that if you can see an object, you can technically cast darkness on it, but this doesn’t apply to an enemy’s weapon that you’re not in possession of.

Solution: Cast Darkness on a Carrier

In this case, you can cast darkness on a carrier, such as a familiar or an animal, and then have that carrier carry the enemy’s weapon. This might not be the most conventional or effective way to achieve your goal, but it technically works within the rules.

Practical Applications

In a combat scenario, casting darkness on an enemy’s weapon might not be the most practical or useful move. However, it can be an interesting tactical choice in certain situations:

• Psychological Warfare: Casting darkness on an enemy’s weapon can be a psychological blow, demoralizing your opponents and creating an unsettling atmosphere on the battlefield.
• Limited Visibility: If your opponent is relying on the weapon’s visibility to target, casting darkness on it can limit their effectiveness.
• Tactical Advantage: In a situation where your opponent is relying on their weapon’s visibility, casting darkness on it can create an opportunity for a flanking maneuver or surprise attack.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while casting darkness on an enemy’s weapon is technically possible within the rules, it might not be the most practical or effective move in most situations. However, it can be an interesting tactical choice in certain scenarios, such as psychological warfare, limited visibility, or creating a tactical advantage. As always, remember to keep in mind the context of your game and the creativity of your DM when deciding on your next move.