Backlash
2024 Rules
- Level & School
- 4th-level abjuration
- Casting Time
- Reaction, which you take in response to taking damage
- Range
- 60 feet
- Components
- V
- Duration
- Instantaneous
- Classes
- Bard, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
You ward yourself against destructive energy, reducing the damage taken by 4d6 plus your spellcasting ability modifier.
If the triggering damage was from a creature within range, you can force the creature to make a Constitution saving throw. The creature takes 4d6 Force damage on a failed save or half as much damage on a successful one.
Using a Higher-Level Spell Slot. The damage reduction and Force damage from this spell both increase by 1d6 for every spell slot level above 4.
Backlash 5.5e 2024 vs. 5e 2014 edition differences
Backlash is a new spell for the 2024 edition.
Backlash popularity
How popular is Backlash? It is a seldom seen spell in the game, and is chosen less than other options when available. This spell may fill a specific niche for a spellbook.
- Top 50% of all level 4 spells
- Bottom 50% of all 5e spells
- Bottom 50% picked level 4 Bard spell
- Bottom 50% picked level 4 Warlock spell
- Bottom 50% picked level 4 Wizard spell
- Bottom 25% picked level 4 Sorcerer spell
Spells similar to Backlash
Armor of Agathys 1st-level abjuration
Though a lower-level option, it creates temporary protection that deals damage to creatures that hit you, which mirrors Backlash's hit-and-return mechanic.
Players prefer Armor of Agathys over Backlash
Fire Shield 4th-level evocation
A 4th-level self-only defense that both reduces harm and damages attackers, so it matches Backlash's protective-and-retaliatory feel.
Players prefer Fire Shield over Backlash
Stoneskin 4th-level transmutation
It reduces incoming damage by granting resistance, so players choose it for damage reduction in the same situations where Backlash would be used for mitigation.
Players prefer Backlash over Stoneskin
Fount of Moonlight 4th-level evocation
A 4th-level spell that blends self-protection with a punitive response against foes, giving it a comparable tactical role to Backlash.
Players prefer Backlash over Fount of Moonlight
Death Armor 2nd-level necromancy
This spell provides protective benefits while also punishing attackers, making its play pattern similar to Backlash's reduce-and-retaliate effect.
Players prefer Backlash over Death Armor