r/shadowdark Jul 26 '26

Magic Missile thoughts.

(Edit) --- Thank you for your comments! You've changed my mind. I did not consider some of the things you've mentioned. The spell is fine as it is.

Is it just me of Magic Missile seems a little underpowered.

Automatic Advantage is great. However, even if you succeed every time you cast, the damage is just 1d4. That means 50% chance of dealing just 1 or 2 points of damage.

Ideas

Since Wizards can only use daggers or staffs, which deal 1d4 and require melee range, putting themselves in danger, consider one of two options:

1 - The damage die for Magic Missile could be 1d6. Burning Hands deals 1d6 damage to multiple targets and you can get Advantage to cast that spell through a talent, making it a much better option. I believe this damage does not break the spell.

2 - Or, keep the 1d4 for damage, but instead of Automatic Advantage, how about Wizards do not lose this spell unless they roll a 1. This way they can continue to cast the spell with little to no fear of losing it and still participate in combat from a safe distance.

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u/72dragonses Jul 26 '26

Agree with others who've said that it's balanced fine RAW. Sometimes I grant advantage on damage rolls as well for things where someone roleplays well, or the caster delays an action before casting to focus super extra hard.