Does Wrathful Smite Require Concentration?
Wrathful Smite is a spell that is commonly used by Paladins and Warlocks in the world of Dungeons & Dragons. The spell allows the caster to deal an additional 1d6 damage to a target, which can be a game-changer in the heat of battle. But one of the key questions about this spell is whether it requires concentration to cast.
In the PHB, It Says…
According to the Player’s Handbook (PHB), Wrathful Smite is a concentration spell. This means that if the caster is interrupted or breaks concentration, the spell will be cancelled. However, the PHB also notes that casting a spell that requires concentration does not allow the caster to ignore any effects of interruption.
But What Does This Mean in Practice?
In practice, this means that if a player casts Wrathful Smite, they will need to remain focused and engaged in the combat scene in order to maintain the spell’s effects. If they are hit with an unexpected attack, or if their concentration is broken by a spell or ability, the Wrathful Smite will be cancelled and the extra damage will not be applied.
Types of Interruption
So, what constitutes an interruption? In the context of concentration spells like Wrathful Smite, there are a few different types of interruptions that can occur. These include:
• Takes damage: If the player is hit with an attack that would normally require a Constitution saving throw to ignore, they will break concentration on their spell.
• Casts another spell: If the player attempts to cast another spell that also requires concentration, they will break concentration on their previous spell.
• Is incapacitated: If the player is knocked out, paralyzed, or otherwise incapacitated, they will break concentration on their spell.
• Uses an ability: Some abilities, such as a bard’s music or a rogue’s expertise, can break a character’s concentration.
Can I Multi-Class or Multi-Tree?
If you’re worried about losing concentration on Wrathful Smite, you may be wondering whether you can take additional classes or playstyles to mitigate this risk. The short answer is yes – multi-classing or multi-treating can increase your chances of maintaining concentration. Here are a few options to consider:
• Fighter: The Fighter class has a feat called Shield Master, which allows you to add your proficiency bonus to your Constitution saving throw when you take damage.
• Monk: The Monk class has a feature called Unarmored Defense, which allows you to add your Dexterity modifier to your Constitution saving throw when you take damage.
• Warlock: The Warlock class has a spell called Eldritch Mantle, which allows you to add your Warlock level to your Constitution saving throw when you take damage.
Table: Concentration Spell Interrupts
Here is a table summarizing the different types of interrupts that can break concentration on Wrathful Smite:
| Type of Interrupt | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Takes damage | Player breaks concentration on spell |
| Casts another spell | Player breaks concentration on spell |
| Is incapacitated | Player breaks concentration on spell |
| Uses an ability | Player breaks concentration on spell |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wrathful Smite does indeed require concentration to cast. Players who want to make the most of this spell will need to stay focused and engaged in combat, avoiding interruptions and taking steps to mitigate the risk of losing concentration. With the right classes and abilities, however, players can increase their chances of maintaining concentration and unleashing the full power of Wrathful Smite.