Magic Missile
You create three glowing darts of magical force. Each dart hits a creature of your choice that you can see within range. A dart deals 1d4 + 1 force damage to its target. The darts all strike simultaneously, and you can direct them to hit one creature or several.
At a Glance
Level
1st
School
Evocation
Casting Time
1 action
Range
120 feet
Duration
Instantaneous
Concentration
No
How Magic Missile Works
| Casting Time | 1 action |
|---|---|
| Range | 120 feet |
| Components | V, S |
| Duration | Instantaneous |
Available to:
SorcererWizard
Damage
3 darts, each dealing 1d4 + 1 force (3d4 + 3 total if all hit same target)
At Higher Levels
When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the spell creates one more dart for each slot level above 1st.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Rolling one d4 and multiplying - you should roll separately for each dart
Common Mistake
Forgetting it automatically hits - no attack roll or saving throw
Common Mistake
Thinking shield of faith or mage armor stops it - only the shield spell works
DM Tips
DM Tip
Excellent for finishing off low-HP enemies or breaking concentration
DM Tip
Each dart triggers a separate concentration check if all hit the same concentrating creature
Sources & Further Reading
- Magic Missile — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD text
- Magic Missile — Roll20 Compendium — Structured reference
- Magic Missile — D&D Beyond — Official digital reference