The Power of Witch Bolt: Unleash its Potential in Roll20's D&D 5e

Witch Bolt is a spell in the 5th edition of Dungeons and Dragons (5e D&D) that is frequently used by spellcasters in the popular online tabletop gaming platform Roll20. Witch Bolt is a 1st-level evocation spell that requires concentration and has a casting time of 1 action. It allows the caster to create a beam of crackling and blue energy that streaks toward a target within range, which is typically 30 feet. When casting Witch Bolt, the caster must make a ranged spell attack against the target. If successful, the spell hit deals 1d12 lightning damage. On subsequent turns, the caster can use their action to automatically deal an additional 1d12 lightning damage to the target, without needing to make another attack roll, as long as they maintain concentration on the spell.

On subsequent turns, the caster can use their action to automatically deal an additional 1d12 lightning damage to the target, without needing to make another attack roll, as long as they maintain concentration on the spell. This connection allows the caster to channel the energy directly to the target, even if it moves out of range. One of the reasons why Witch Bolt is popular among spellcasters in Roll20 is because the platform provides easy-to-use tools for managing concentration spells.

Can True Strike grant advantage to Witch Bolt?

I believe here RAI would side with (2) while RAW sides with (1), but I would like a definitive, objective RAW answer. Any commentary from an authority that would provide a definite RAI ruling would be appreciated, too.

I thought about making this a more general question, like "Can a concentration spell affect the casting of another concentration spell?", but I believe a specific test case can help focus the answer and most likely any rulings on this specific case would apply to the general case, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

True Strike: On your next turn, you gain advantage on your first attack roll against the target, provided that this spell hasn’t ended.

Players can track their concentration spells using Roll20's built-in attributes and status indicators, which visually show both the caster and the other players the ongoing effect of the spell, making it easier for everyone to keep track of the damage dealt by Witch Bolt each turn. In addition to the convenience of managing concentration spells, Roll20 also offers various features that enhance the gameplay of Witch Bolt. For example, players can use Roll20's dynamic lighting feature to create immersive visuals of the crackling blue energy beam traveling from the caster to the target. This helps to enhance the overall experience and make the spell more engaging for all players involved. Overall, Witch Bolt is a popular spell in the 5e D&D system and is frequently used by players in Roll20. Its ability to deal consistent damage over multiple turns and the convenience of managing concentration spells in Roll20 contribute to its popularity. Whether playing in person or online, Witch Bolt remains a powerful and thrilling spell for spellcasters to unleash against their foes..

Reviews for "Witch Bolt Guide: Tips and Tricks for Success in Roll20's D&D 5e"

1. John - ★★☆☆☆

I was really excited to use the "Witch Bolt" spell in my Roll20 campaign, but I found it to be quite underwhelming. The damage output is really lackluster compared to other spells of the same level. Additionally, the fact that you have to use your action each turn to deal damage with the spell makes it feel like a waste of a potential higher-level spell slot. Overall, I think there are much better options available for spellcasters, and I would not recommend wasting your time with Witch Bolt.

2. Sarah - ★☆☆☆☆

I found "Witch Bolt" to be extremely overrated in the 5e Roll20 system. The damage is so minimal, and it's even worse when compared to other spells available to spellcasters. The fact that you need to maintain concentration to continue dealing damage doesn't make it worth the effort, especially considering the chances of the spell being interrupted. Overall, I was very disappointed with Witch Bolt and would not recommend using it in any campaign.

3. Mike - ★★☆☆☆

Witch Bolt in Roll20 has been a complete letdown for me. The damage output is really weak, making it hardly useful against tougher enemies. It's a shame because the concept of a constant, damaging beam of energy seems really cool, but in execution, it falls flat. The concentration required to maintain the spell also limits the player's options in combat. Overall, I feel like there are just much better spells out there that provide more utility and damage, which is why I cannot recommend Witch Bolt.

4. Emily - ★★☆☆☆

As a sorcerer, I was initially excited to use Witch Bolt in my Roll20 campaign. However, I quickly realized that the damage output is highly inconsistent and dependent on maintaining concentration. This, combined with the limited range of the spell, makes it a less than desirable option in combat. The potential for the spell to be interrupted or for the enemy to break the concentration just adds to the frustration. Personally, I found much more reliable and impactful spells to use, and I would not recommend Witch Bolt to fellow spellcasters.

Enhance Your Roll20 Game with Witch Bolt in D&D 5e