Hypnotic Pattern
IllusionYou create a twisting pattern of colors that weaves through the air inside a 30-foot cube within range. The pattern appears for a moment and vanishes. Each creature in the area who sees the pattern must make a wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the creature becomes charmed for the duration. While charmed by this spell, the creature is incapacitated and has a speed of 0. The spell ends for an affected creature if it takes any damage or if someone else uses an action to shake the creature out of its stupor.
Spell Details
Player Guide
Cast Hypnotic Pattern in a chokepoint or cluster of enemies to maximize affected creatures, as the 30-foot cube allows massive coverage. The spell doesn't require concentration after initial casting in many interpretations, but RAW it does—position yourself safely behind allies or out of line of sight. Use it early in combat before enemies spread out, and combine with area denial or forced movement effects. The incapacitated condition prevents all actions, reactions, and movement, making this spell devastating for action economy.
Spell Combos
DM Tips
RAW states concentration is required and creatures make a Wisdom save each turn, so don't allow permanent incapacitation. Watch for abuse in non-combat scenarios and remind players the pattern must be seen to trigger the save—blind creatures or those with eyes closed are immune.