Spell Spotlight: The Chaotic Reality Break

Spell Spotlight: Reality Break

Reality Break is an intriguing 8th-level spell that can have a significant impact on the game. In this article, we will take a closer look at the mechanics of this spell and compare it to other similar spells. We will also explore some potential uses for both players and Dungeon Masters (DMs).

Mechanics of Reality Break

Reality Break is a powerful spell that allows the caster to temporarily disrupt the fabric of reality. When cast, it creates a rift in space and time, causing a wave of chaotic energy to wash over the area. This energy affects a single creature, causing them to question their own existence and reality itself. From stunning the target to warping them through space, or exposing them to terrible forces beyond understanding, Reality Break can cause a target to take significant damage all while inflicting conditions. While the spell is active, it also prevents a target from using reactions.

The spell does have some downsides. The spell doesn't fully take effect until it reaches a target's turn, so it could take up to 1 round to see its full benefits. The target also has the opportunity to make their save again at the end of their turn, so it's possible that Reality Break only affects a target once.

That being said, you only really need one instance of the spell to take effect to feel its benefits. With incredibly high damage for each result and usually a handy side effect, Reality Break is on par with other 8th level spells. If the spell takes effect for two or even three turns, it greatly outpaces the other damaging spells of the same level.

To make the most use of Reality Break, it is best to use it against a creature with a low chance of success on Wisdom saving throws. Creatures with the Magic Resistance trait or another feature that grants them advantage on saving throws are poor targets for this spell as it requires multiple saves for full effectiveness. The spell could also be a good way to burn through a creature's Legendary resistance, but there are better lower-level spells that can accomplish that.

Comparing Reality Break and Confusion

Confusion and Reality Break have many similarities. Confusion forces a target to act randomly based on a roll of a table. It also prevents a target from using reactions. While Reality Break and Confusion both have the potential to create chaos, there are some key differences between the two spells. Confusion is a lower-level spell, available to casters at the 4th level, while Reality Break is a more advanced 8th-level spell. Confusion cannot directly harm a creature under its effects. Confusion can cause a creature to delay their actions or move in a particular direction, but it can also still work for the benefit of the target if they are lucky. Reality Break is purely negative for those that are subjected to its effects.

Uses for Players and DMs

Players can use Reality Break in a variety of creative ways. In combat, it can be used to confuse enemies, making them more vulnerable to attacks. It can also be used strategically to create distractions or to buy time for the party to escape from a dangerous situation. For DMs, Reality Break can be a powerful tool for creating challenging encounters. It can be used to disrupt the plans of the players, forcing them to think on their feet and adapt to the chaotic situation. It can also be used as a plot device, introducing elements of uncertainty and mystery into the game. Targeting a Wizard for example could be risky due to their higher bonus to wisdom saves, but it would prevent them from using reaction spells like Shield or Counterspell. Targeting a Fighter or Barbarian would make for a longer-lasting effect, but they would have more hit points that can soak up the effectiveness of the spell.

In conclusion, Reality Break is an intriguing spell that can add a new level of chaos and unpredictability to the game. Its mechanics, when compared to Confusion, offer unique opportunities for both players and DMs. Whether used to confuse enemies, create distractions, or introduce uncertainty, Reality Break is a spell that can truly break the boundaries of reality in your game.

Art by Brian Valeza

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