Finger of Death

A
Damage

Finger of Death is a Damage spell. Damage spells focus on dealing harm to enemies.

See all Damage spells →
 spell that blasts a foe with necrotic power, and if it slays a humanoid,
raises a zombie

Finger of Death is a Summoning spell. Summoning spells create new allies.

See all Summoning spells →
 to obey your command.

2024 Rules
Level & School
7th-level necromancy
Casting Time
Action
Range
60 feet
Components
V, S
Duration
Instantaneous
Classes
Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard

You unleash negative energy toward a creature you can see within range. The target makes a Constitution saving throw, taking 7d8 + 30 Necrotic damage on a failed save or half as much damage on a successful one.

A Humanoid killed by this spell rises at the start of your next turn as a Zombie that follows your verbal orders.

2014 Rules
Level & School
7th-level necromancy
Casting Time
Action
Range
60 feet
Components
V, S
Duration
Instantaneous
Classes
Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard

You send negative energy coursing through a creature that you can see within range, causing it searing pain. The target must make a Constitution saving throw. It takes 7d8 + 30 necrotic damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.

A humanoid killed by this spell rises at the start of your next turn as a zombie that is permanently under your command, following your verbal orders to the best of its ability.

Finger of Death 5.5e 2024 vs. 5e 2014 edition differences

The zombie no longer says it’s permanently under your command; it now just follows your verbal orders. That’s the only real mechanical change.

Finger of Death popularity

How popular is Finger of Death? It is a seldom seen spell in the game, but is chosen above nearly all other options when available. This spell is a rare gem that spellcasters seek out.

Spells similar to Finger of Death

Finger of Death is featured in