Darkness 5e
Level 2 Evocation
Darkness is a level 2 evocation spell in D&D 5e. Casting time: 1 action, range: 60 feet, duration: Concentration, up to 10 minutes. Available to Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard.
Casting Time
1 action
Range
60 feet
Duration
Concentration, up to 10 minutes
Components
V, M (bat fur and a drop of pitch or piece of coal)
Magical darkness spreads from a point you choose within range to fill a 15-foot radius sphere for the duration. The darkness spreads around corners. A creature with darkvision can't see through this darkness, and nonmagical light can't illuminate it.
If the point you choose is on an object you are holding or one that isn't being worn or carried, the darkness emanates from the object and moves with it. Completely covering the source of the darkness with an opaque object, such as a bowl or a helm, blocks the darkness.
If any of this spell's area overlaps with an area of light created by a spell of 2nd level or lower, the spell that created the light is dispelled.
Spellcasting & Tactical Insights
Action Economy
Standard Action • Primary turn investment.
Concentration
Requires Concentration (taking damage triggers DC 10 / half-damage Con saves).
School Role
Evocation: Channels raw elemental energy. Delivers explosive area-of-effect damage, healing magic, or elemental barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level spell is Darkness and what school does it belong to?
Darkness is a Level 2 spell belonging to the school of Evocation in D&D 5e.
What are the casting time, range, and duration of Darkness?
Darkness has a casting time of 1 action, range of 60 feet, and duration of Concentration, up to 10 minutes.
Does Darkness require concentration or ritual casting?
Yes, Darkness requires Concentration. It cannot be cast as a ritual.
Use Darkness in your campaign
Dungeon Manager lets you add Darkness to your characters, reference it during sessions, and track spell slots across encounters — all free.