ARCANE CATACLYSM
4th-level evocation (arcane)
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Self (20-foot radius)
Components: V, S (see Activation)
Duration: Instantaneous (terrain effects persist)
Activation (Important Flavor)
You plant a hand against the ground, channeling arcane power downward. The magic floods beneath the surface, veins of glowing energy racing outward—then you rip your hand upward and slam the power back down, detonating the area around you.
This spell fails if you are not touching solid ground.
Effect
You unleash a surge of unstable arcane energy that ruptures the terrain around you.
-
Each creature of your choice within 20 feet must make a Dexterity saving throw.
-
On a failed save, a creature takes 6d8 force damage, is knocked prone, and is pushed 10 feet away from you.
-
On a successful save, the creature takes half damage and is not knocked prone or pushed.
Terrain Devastation
The ground in the area becomes ravaged arcane terrain until the end of your next turn:
-
The area counts as difficult terrain
-
Creatures that enter the area for the first time on a turn or start their turn there take 2d6 force damage
-
Nonmagical structures, loose stone, earth, and fragile objects are cracked, shattered, or violently displaced
This effect ignores resistance to nonmagical difficult terrain—the ground itself is hostile.
Arcane Disruption
-
Concentration checks made within the area are made with disadvantage until the terrain settles.
-
Illusions or magical effects relying on stable surfaces or footing automatically end if the DM deems them ground-dependent.
At Higher Levels
When cast using a spell slot of 5th level or higher, increase the initial damage by 1d8 and the hazardous terrain damage by 1d6 per slot level above 4th.
Why This Spell Works
-
Strong defensive burst without invalidating encounters
-
Forces space, knocks enemies away, and punishes swarming
-
Terrain control without long concentration
-
Feels physical, not just “magic explosion”
Perfect For
-
Arcane battlemages
-
Illriggers using space control
-
Casters who fight in the thick of combat
-
Anyone who wants a spell that says:
“Back. Away. Now.”
Comments