Do Crits Work on Spells?
Critics in Dungeons & Dragons can be a game-changer for players, but their effects are not universal to all types of attacks and abilities. When it comes to spells, do critic hits apply, and are there any exceptions or subtleties to keep in mind? Let’s break down the answer and the surrounding rules to clarify these points.
Do All Spells Benefit from Critic Hits?
No. While some spells do count towards critical hits, not all spells can critical hit. Critical hit rules apply only to combat maneuvers, melee attacks, and some special abilities; they do not extend to non-combat spell uses like healing, divinations, or evocations (source: Player’s Handbook, p. 248).
What Spells Qualify for Critical Hits?
Spells that fit into the following categories usually allow for critical hits:
- Melee combat spells: Spells like Acid Arrow, Flame Strike, and Fireball involve weapon attacks and are susceptible to critical hits.
- Attack spells: Spells that target a specific location (like a single creature, object, or area), like Magic Missile or Arrow of Slaying.
- Touch spells: Spells that require physical touch, such as healing gestures or curses.
Keep an eye out for critical hit rules within individual spells, as some might offer special critical hit mechanics specific to that spell. As a general rule, melee and attack spells with area of effect damage usually get a critical hit boost.
Additional Exceptions and Rules to Be Aware Of
When approaching spellcasting with critical hit rules, keep these pointers in mind:
- Shields don’t offer a bonus against spells. Unlike in combat combat, shields won’t factor into the armor class to help prevent a critical hit when casting spells.
- Spells that only target a single point: Since these spells usually avoid critical hit checks, take advantage of them for stealthy or precision casting if your DM allows it.
Table: Spells Liable to Critical Hits