How Long Do Cantrips Last?
Cantrips, also known as 0-level spells, are a fundamental part of Dungeons & Dragons. They are a set of spells that can be cast by all characters, regardless of their class or profession. Cantrips are useful for dealing with minor problems and for getting out of sticky situations. However, one of the most common questions about cantrips is how long they last.
Direct Answer: Cantrips Last Until the End of Your Turn
The simple answer to the question "How long do cantrips last?" is that cantrips last until the end of your turn. This means that when you cast a cantrip, its effects will continue until the end of your next turn. For example, if you cast the cantrip "Mage Hand" to pick up an object, the object will remain in your hand until the end of your next turn.
Types of Cantrips and Their Durations
Cantrips come in two main forms: instantaneous and longer-duration. Instantaneous cantrips, such as "Magic Missile", have no duration and can only be used once per turn. Longer-duration cantrips, such as "Eldritch Blast", can be used multiple times per turn and have a longer duration.
Instantaneous Cantrips
- Last for a brief instant and can only be used once per turn
- Examples: Magic Missile, Fire Bolt
- Can only be used once per turn
Longer-Duration Cantrips
- Can be used multiple times per turn
- Examples: Eldritch Blast, Shield
- Can be used multiple times per turn, but have a longer duration
Duration Examples
- Eldritch Blast: Lasts for 1 minute (or until the end of the scene)
- Shield: Lasts for 1 hour
- Mage Hand: Lasts for the duration of your turn
Special Considerations
- Concentration: Some cantrips, such as "Thorn Whip", require concentration to maintain. If you lose concentration, the cantrip ends.
- Saving Throws: Some cantrips, such as "Eldritch Blast", can be disrupted by saving throws. If a saving throw is successful, the cantrip ends.
Table: Cantrip Durations
| Cantrip | Duration |
|---|---|
| Magic Missile | Instantaneous |
| Fire Bolt | Instantaneous |
| Eldritch Blast | 1 minute |
| Shield | 1 hour |
| Mage Hand | 1 turn |
| Thorn Whip | 1 minute (concentration) |
In conclusion, cantrips are a fundamental part of Dungeons & Dragons and come in two main forms: instantaneous and longer-duration. The duration of a cantrip varies depending on the specific cantrip and whether it requires concentration. By understanding how long cantrips last, you can make the most of these useful spells and improve your gameplay.