Frostbite 5e: Mechanics and Guide to Using the Spell

Spell Description:

You cause numbing frost to form on one creature that you can see within range. The target must make a Constitution saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes 1d6 cold damage, and it has disadvantage on the next weapon attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn.

The spell’s damage increases by 1d6 when you reach 5th level (2d6), 11th level (3d6), and 17th level (4d6).

	1st level	5th level	11th level	17th level
Damage Dice	1d6	2d6	3d6	4d6
Minimum Damage	1	2	3	4
Average Damage	3.5	6.5	9.5	12.5
Maximum Damage	6	12	18	24

What Is Frostbite?

Frostbite is an Evocation cantrip that forces the target to make a Constitution saving throw to avoid Cold damage from the numbing ice that the caster grows upon their skin.

Additionally, a failed save inflicts disadvantage on their next weapon attack roll.

Who Can Cast Frostbite?

Frostbite is a spell on the Artificer, Druid, Sorcerer, Warlock, and Wizard spell lists and those classes will have access to the spell starting at 1st level. Eldritch Knights can take the spell at 3rd level upon selecting their martial archetype.

Arcane Tricksters will not be able to take the spell until 8th level when they gain access to Evocation spells. Bards can take the spell with their Magical Secrets feature, available to all Bards by 10th level.

When and Where Should I Cast Frostbite?

Frostbite’s damage is not as high as some other cantrips like Fire Bolt, but the inflicted disadvantage is a meaningful replacement for the extra damage numbers, especially at a low level when every attack matters greatly.

Why Should I Take Frostbite?

Frostbite’s damage is not as high as other spells but it inflicts disadvantage on weapon attacks which can be a lifesaver in combat. Its only resource cost is time, but in combat, that’s not nearly as important as spell resources.

Common Questions About Frostbite