Scorching Ray
You create three rays of fire and hurl them at targets within range. You can hurl them at one target or several. Make a ranged spell attack for each ray. On a hit, the target takes 2d6 fire damage.
At a Glance
Level
2nd
School
Evocation
Casting Time
1 action
Range
120 feet
Duration
Instantaneous
Concentration
No
How Scorching Ray Works
| Casting Time | 1 action |
|---|---|
| Range | 120 feet |
| Components | V, S |
| Duration | Instantaneous |
Damage
2d6 fire per ray (3 rays total)
At Higher Levels
When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 3rd level or higher, you create one additional ray for each slot level above 2nd.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting each ray requires a separate attack roll
Common Mistake
Not splitting rays between targets when tactical
Common Mistake
Rolling all damage at once instead of per ray (matters for resistance)
Common Mistake
Forgetting you can target the same creature multiple times
DM Tips
DM Tip
Great for consistent damage, especially when you can get advantage
DM Tip
Each ray hitting triggers separate concentration checks
DM Tip
Can be devastating when combined with features that add damage per hit
DM Tip
Fire damage is commonly resisted, so keep that in mind
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Scorching Ray — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD text
- Scorching Ray — Roll20 Compendium — Structured reference
- Scorching Ray — D&D Beyond — Official digital reference