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
Backlash is a seldom chosen level 4 spell. Choosing it adds a unique option to your spellbook.
- Bottom 25% level 4 Bard spell
- Bottom 10% level 4 Sorcerer spell
- Bottom 10% level 4 Warlock spell
- Bottom 25% level 4 Wizard spell
Spells similar to 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.