Programmed Illusion 5e
Level 6 Illusion
Programmed Illusion is a level 6 illusion spell in D&D 5e. Casting time: 1 action, range: 120 feet, duration: Until dispelled. Available to Bard, Wizard.
Casting Time
1 action
Range
120 feet
Duration
Until dispelled
Components
V, S, M (a bit of fleece and jade dust worth at least 25 gp)
You create an illusion of an object, a creature, or some other visible phenomenon within range that activates when a specific condition occurs. The illusion is imperceptible until then. It must be no larger than a 30-foot cube, and you decide when you cast the spell how the illusion behaves and what sounds it makes. This scripted performance can last up to 5 minutes.
When the condition you specify occurs, the illusion springs into existence and performs in the manner you described. Once the illusion finishes performing, it disappears and remains dormant for 10 minutes. After this time, the illusion can be activated again.
The triggering condition can be as general or as detailed as you like, though it must be based on visual or audible conditions that occur within 30 feet of the area. For example, you could create an illusion of yourself to appear and warn off others who attempt to open a trapped door, or you could set the illusion to trigger only when a creature says the correct word or phrase.
Physical interaction with the image reveals it to be an illusion, because things can pass through it. A creature that uses its action to examine the image can determine that it is an illusion with a successful Intelligence (Investigation) check against your spell save DC. If a creature discerns the illusion for what it is, the creature can see through the image, and any noise it makes sounds hollow to the creature.
Spellcasting & Tactical Insights
Action Economy
Standard Action • Primary turn investment.
Concentration
No Concentration • Safe to stack with persistent effects.
School Role
Illusion: Deceives senses and warps perception. Best used for creative diversions, stealth cover, and manipulating NPCs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level spell is Programmed Illusion and what school does it belong to?
Programmed Illusion is a Level 6 spell belonging to the school of Illusion in D&D 5e.
What are the casting time, range, and duration of Programmed Illusion?
Programmed Illusion has a casting time of 1 action, range of 120 feet, and duration of Until dispelled.
Does Programmed Illusion require concentration or ritual casting?
No, Programmed Illusion does not require Concentration. It cannot be cast as a ritual.
Use Programmed Illusion in your campaign
Dungeon Manager lets you add Programmed Illusion to your characters, reference it during sessions, and track spell slots across encounters — all free.