Slow is the anti-action economy spell. Up to six creatures in a cube must make Wisdom saves; failures get slammed with reduced speed, attack penalties, and painful limits on spells and reactions.
This Slow 5E guide covers target selection and when to pick other control instead.
- Spell Level
- 3rd
- Spell Type
- Transmutation
- Casting Time
- 1 Action
- Range
- 120 feet
- Component Requirements
- Verbal, Somatic, Material (a drop of molasses)
- Duration
- Concentration, up to 1 minute
- Class
- Sorcerer, Wizard (and some subclasses)
- Targets
- Up to six creatures of your choice in a 40-foot cube
How does Slow work?
You alter time around up to six creatures of your choice in a 40-foot cube within range. Each target must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or be affected for the duration.
Affected creatures typically:
- Have halved speed
- Take a penalty to AC and Dexterity saves
- Can’t use reactions
- Are limited on attacks and spellcasting (often only an action or a bonus action on a turn, and spells may only take effect with a delay / limited slots — follow your PHB wording)
Creatures can repeat the save at the end of their turns.
Best uses
- Multi-attack bosses and champion packs
- Enemy casters who chain leveled spells
- Fights where Hypnotic Pattern fails due to charm immunity
Slow vs Hypnotic Pattern
| Spell | Soft lock | Wake condition |
|---|---|---|
| Slow | Debuff while failed | End-of-turn saves |
| Hypnotic Pattern | Full incapacitation | Damage or shake awake |
Hypnotic Pattern is the harder lock when it sticks. Slow is the reliable “everyone still acts, but worse” button that doesn’t break when you AoE the crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Slow stack with Bane or similar?
Different effects usually stack if they aren’t the same named game effect — confirm overlapping attack penalties with your DM.
Is it good against legendary monsters?
Yes if they lack Wisdom proficiency / legendary resistance spam. Burn resistances first when you can.
Should Wizards always prepare it?
If you face martial packs often, yes. Pair with Shatter or Fireball for the creatures who keep saving.
