Summon Undead

  • Level & School
    3rd-level necromancy
  • Casting Time
    Action
  • Range
    90 feet
  • Components
    V, S, M (a gilded skull worth 300+ GP)
  • Duration
    Concentration, up to 1 hour
  • Classes
    Warlock, Wizard

You call forth an Undead spirit. It manifests in an unoccupied space that you can see within range and uses the Undead Spirit stat block. When you cast the spell, choose the creature's form: Ghostly, Putrid, or Skeletal. The spirit resembles an Undead creature with the chosen form, which determines certain details in its stat block. The creature disappears when it drops to 0 Hit Points or when the spell ends.

The creature is an ally to you and your allies. In combat, the creature shares your Initiative count, but it takes its turn immediately after yours. It obeys your verbal commands (no action required by you). If you don't issue any, it takes the Dodge action and uses its movement to avoid danger.

Using a Higher-Level Spell Slot. Use the spell slot's level for the spell's level in the stat block.

Summon Undead 5.5e 2024 vs. 5e 2014 edition differences

The 2024 version clarifies that the creature's form determines "certain details" in the stat block, replacing "traits." It also specifies "your allies" instead of "you and your companions," and states "use the spell slot's level" instead of "higher level wherever the spell’s level appears," providing clearer guidance.