Chromatic Orb
You hurl a 4-inch-diameter sphere of energy at a creature that you can see within range. You choose acid, cold, fire, lightning, poison, or thunder for the type of orb you create, and then make a ranged spell attack against the target. If the attack hits, the creature takes 3d8 damage of the type you chose.
At a Glance
Level
1st
School
Evocation
Casting Time
1 action
Range
90 feet
Duration
Instantaneous
Concentration
No
How Chromatic Orb Works
| Casting Time | 1 action |
|---|---|
| Range | 90 feet |
| Components | V, S, M (a diamond worth at least 50 gp) |
| Duration | Instantaneous |
Damage
3d8 (acid, cold, fire, lightning, poison, or thunder)
At Higher Levels
When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the damage increases by 1d8 for each slot level above 1st.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting the 50 gp diamond material component - it's not consumed but must be present
Common Mistake
Not choosing the damage type strategically based on enemy resistances
Common Mistake
Thinking you can change damage type after seeing if it hits - choose before rolling
Common Mistake
Not realizing this is one of the highest damage 1st-level attack spells
DM Tips
DM Tip
Excellent damage for 1st level with the flexibility of six damage types
DM Tip
The material component requirement can be a story hook - finding the diamond
DM Tip
Smart players will use Identify or knowledge checks to exploit enemy vulnerabilities
DM Tip
Scales very well when upcast
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Chromatic Orb — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD text
- Chromatic Orb — Roll20 Compendium — Structured reference
- Chromatic Orb — D&D Beyond — Official digital reference