Skip to main content

Power Word Kill

Enchantment
Level: 9th-level
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 60 feet
Duration: Instantaneous
Components: V

You utter a word of power that can compel one creature you can see within range to die instantly. If the creature you choose has 100 hit points or fewer, it dies. Otherwise, the spell has no effect.

Spell Details

School: Enchantment
Level: 9
Ritual: No
Concentration: No
Classes: Bard, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
S-Tier Instant kill with no save creates unmatched burst potential against priority targets within the HP threshold.

Player Guide

Power Word Kill excels as a last-resort execution tool for creatures at or below 100 HP, making it devastating against weakened enemies or lower-CR foes. Use it to instantly remove threats after dealing damage, or to guarantee elimination of enemies that would escape. Since there's no save or resistance, it bypasses most defensive mechanics, but always verify target HP before casting to avoid wasting this precious 9th-level slot.

DM Tips

Confirm HP values transparently or use it selectively on named enemies to avoid feeling unfair; consider that players at high levels expect instant-death mechanics and may feel cheated if used liberally. Balance by reserving this against boss-level threats rather than standard encounters.