Faerie Fire lights enemies up for the whole party. Creatures that fail a Dexterity save are outlined in light: attacks against them have advantage, and invisible targets become visible while affected.
This Faerie Fire 5E guide covers targeting, positioning, and when to spend the concentration slot.
- Spell Level
- 1st
- Spell Type
- Evocation
- Casting Time
- 1 Action
- Range
- 60 feet
- Component Requirements
- Verbal
- Duration
- Concentration, up to 1 minute
- Class
- Bard, Druid, Light Domain Cleric (and some subclasses)
- Area
- Each object in a 20-foot cube; each creature in the area that fails a Dexterity saving throw
How does Faerie Fire work?
Choose a 20-foot cube within range. Each object in the area is outlined in light (your color choice). Each creature in the area must succeed on a Dexterity saving throw or be outlined for the duration.
While outlined:
- Attack rolls against the creature have advantage
- The creature can’t benefit from being invisible
Why tables love it
One failed save turns the whole party’s attacks into advantage swings — melee, ranged, and spells that use attack rolls. It is one of the best “team enable” spells at 1st level.
Best habits
- Drop it on clustered enemies before the party’s Extra Attack turns.
- Use it when invisible stalkers, greater invisibility, or darkness tricks are in play.
- Pair with high-volume attackers (rogues, sharpshooters, Eldritch Blast spam).
Faerie Fire vs Guiding Bolt
| Spell | Slot | Advantage | Party-wide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faerie Fire | 1st, concentration | On all attacks vs failed saves | Yes |
| Guiding Bolt | 1st | Next attack only | No |
Guiding Bolt is single-target burst plus a free next hit. Faerie Fire is the multi-target, multi-round play.
Concentration conflict
Bards and druids often want Spike Growth, Hold Person, or Pass Without Trace. Cast Faerie Fire when the fight is a slugfest of attack rolls, not when control or exploration magic matters more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Faerie Fire help spell attacks?
Yes — any attack roll against the outlined creature, including spell attacks.
Does it help saving-throw spells?
No. Fireball and similar still use saves. For that, look at control spells or party buffs like Bless.
Can allies be outlined if they are in the cube?
Objects are outlined automatically; creatures only if they fail the save. Place the cube carefully so friends are not forced to save (or accept the risk at chaotic tables).
