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
- Source
- Forgotten Realms: Heroes of Faerûn
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
- Top 50% picked level 4 Warlock spell
- Bottom 50% of all 5e spells
- Bottom 50% picked level 4 Wizard spell
- Bottom 50% picked level 4 Sorcerer spell
- Bottom 25% picked level 4 Bard spell
Read about how this popularity data is calculated.
Spells similar to Backlash
Shadow of Moil 4th-level necromancy
A self-protective spell for spellcasters, it discourages attacks by dealing necrotic damage back to assailants.
Players prefer Shadow of Moil over Backlash
Armor of Agathys 1st-level abjuration
It grants defensive durability and returns damage to creatures that strike the protected target.
Players prefer Armor of Agathys over Backlash
Shield 1st-level abjuration
Although it lacks a counterattack, Shield is a closely related reaction that protects a caster at the moment danger occurs.
Players prefer Shield over Backlash
Fire Shield 4th-level evocation
Both protect the caster from harm while punishing creatures that attack them, with Fire Shield providing longer-lasting protection.
Players prefer Fire Shield over Backlash
Absorb Elements 1st-level abjuration
Like Backlash, it is a reactive defense that reduces incoming elemental damage and can empower a retaliatory strike.
Players prefer Absorb Elements over Backlash
Death Armor 2nd-level necromancy
This spell combines personal protection with damage against enemies that hurt or attack the recipient.
Players prefer Backlash over Death Armor