What level is turn undead?

What Level is Turn Undead?

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons, cleric characters have access to powerful spells that allow them to turn undead creatures. But before we dive into the ins and outs of this incredible ability, let’s clarify what level it becomes available.

When Does Turn Undead Become Available?

According to the article, Turn Undead is available to clerics when they reach 2nd level. This might seem like a relatively modest level, but trust me, this spell is potent and can be a game-changer in the right situation.

What Does the Spell Do?

Let’s take a closer look at what Turn Undead does. As an action, you present your holy symbol and speak a prayer censuring the undead. Each undead within 30 feet of you that can see or hear you must make a Wisdom saving throw. If the creature fails its saving throw, it is turned for 1 minute or until it takes any damage.

Important Points:

• Undead creatures that fail the saving throw are turned:

• They become temporarily neutralized, unable to attack or take any hostilities.
• For 1 minute, you can use your action to move the turned creature’s space.
• Taking any damage (even minimum damage) ends the effects of the spell.
  • Range: The effect of the spell only targets undead creatures within 30 feet of you.
• This means you won’t be able to hit creatures beyond this range (unless you use another spell or ability).
  • Creatures that fail the save: These creatures are susceptible to your commands for as long as the spell effect lasts.

What Determines the Effectiveness of the Spell?

While a 2nd-level clerics can access Turn Undead, there are two factors that affect the spells’ effectiveness:

• CR (Challenge Rating) of the undead: Low-CR undead creatures may not be as affected as higher-CR ones (e.g., a lower-CR zombie might need a higher roll to succumb to the spell compared to a higher-CR lich).
• The cleric’s Wisdom attribute: A higher Wisdom can increase the likelihood of the target undead failing the saving throw.

In-Combat Strategies

When using Turn Undead in combat, think about the following strategies to maximize its effectiveness:

1. Focus on enemies with low HP: Vulnerable undead creatures with depleted HP are more likely to fail the saving throw. Target these first to drain their strength.
2. Use Turn Undead to control the battlefield:
   • Turn foes to neutralize them: This can create opportunities to attack or maneuver around difficult terrain.
   • Retain control: Keep track of the turned creatures during the 1-minute time frame to adjust your movement and positioning accordingly.
   • Combine with other skills and abilities: Use magic items, spells, and abilities that enhance your casting abilities or affect the success of the saving throw, such as a blessing scroll or a sacred shield ally.

Conclusion

Clerics with access to Turn Undead can reap significant benefits on the battlefield. By understanding the capabilities and limitations of this important spell, you’ll increase your chances of success while facing the forces of death. Remember to focus on low-CR undead for maximum effectiveness and combine the spell with other abilities for a more strategic approach to combat.

Table for Reference:

Call to Action:

Experiment with Turn Undead at 2nd level or higher and adapt your roleplaying and combat strategies for maximum impact. Share with fellow players your experiences of using this incredible ability for the greater good!

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