Shield

Abjuration

Level: 1st-level

Casting Time: 1 reaction

Range: Self

Duration: 1 round

Components: V, S

An invisible barrier of magical force appears and protects you. Until the start of your next turn, you have a +5 bonus to AC, including against the triggering attack, and you take no damage from magic missile.

Spell Details

School: Abjuration

Level: 1

Ritual: No

Concentration: No

Classes: Sorcerer, Wizard

S-Tier Reaction spell with massive AC boost and magic damage immunity makes it the premier defensive option for any spellcaster.

Player Guide

Cast Shield reactively when you're targeted by an attack or magic damage to turn would-be hits into misses and negate spell damage entirely. The +5 AC bonus stacks with all other AC sources, making you nearly untouchable for a round. Use it strategically on turns when enemies have multiple attacks or spell casters are focusing fire, rather than preemptively, since you need it most when threatened.

Spell Combos

mage-armor Combines with Shield's +5 for 18+ AC at low levels, creating an impenetrable defense for Int-based casters.blur Stacks with Shield's AC bonus to grant disadvantage on attacks while maintaining magic damage immunity.mirror-image Synergizes as backup defense—if Shield prevents the hit, mirror-images remain; if Shield fails, images still absorb hits.

DM Tips

Shield triggers after seeing the attack roll but before damage, allowing tactical decisions. Remember the magic damage immunity applies to all magical damage sources, not just spells, during that round.

Related Spells

mage-armor