Lightning Lure
Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard - Cantrip Level Spell
School: Evocation
Casting Time: 1 Action
Range: 15 ft
Components: Verbal
Duration: Instantaneous
Attack/Save: STR
Reference: SCAG 143
The target must succeed on a Strength saving throw or be pulled up to 10 feet in a straight line toward you and then take 1d8 lightning damage if it is within 5 feet of you.
At higher level
This spell’s damage increases by 1d8 when you reach 5th level (2d8), 11th level (3d8), and 17th level (4d8).
My Comments: This spell seems like one of those hidden utility cantrips. People who concentrate on how much damage a spell can do might miss some more interesting aspects of this spell.
For example, imagine a creature on the ceiling, just out of your barbarians reach. Zzappity-yank! Pull them off the ceiling.
Or, what if one of your compatriots is stuck in a bad spot and needs to move outside their turn. Zzappity-yank! C’mere buddy! Sure, they might take some damage, but it also might be better than being stuck in a bad spot.
And, of course, the combos… things that require your target to move or to be in a certain spot are great for this spell.
Booming Blade is a great one…. EDIT – just realized this doesn’t work. Booming blade specifically says “If the target willingly moves…” and being moved by Lightning Lure wouldn’t count. Okay, never mind that one.
However, what about Spirit Guardians? Or, how about dragging them into bad terrain, or a Cloud of Daggers? Maybe a Bonfire? Or, and this is my favorite, how about dragging them into Grease? Not only does it give you a chance to get them prone, it all provides the opportunity to make jokes about Greeeased Lighting! (*warning* obnoxious jokes like that will likely elicit groans and can possibly get you tossed from a party. Also, it might show your age.)
CLARIFICATION ABOUT THIS SPELL- Note that this does work on creatures less than 10 feet away and does not cause them to collide with the caster. This is based on the following text in the description of the spell- “up to 10 feet”, so it doesn’t necessarily have to draw them the entire 10 feet.
Okay, tell me in the comments about all the combo opportunities I missed. 🙂
flight and fall damage
Yeah, definitely. There’s nothing in the spell’s description that says the target couldn’t be pulled in an upward straight line toward you. Then, when you let them go after taking the d8, they also fall for at least another d6. More than that if you plan it right. >:)