Dispel Magic: Who Does It Affect in Dungeons and Dragons 5e?

Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition (DD 5e) is a complex and dynamic game, and spellcasting is at the heart of its magic system. One of the most versatile spells in the game, Dispel Magic, often confounds the players and DMs. The primary question is about the scope of this powerful spell: does it affect only the target, or can it end the spell for everyone affected?

Targeting the Spell

When you cast Dispel Magic, you can choose a creature, an object, or a magical effect within range. This decision significantly impacts the outcome of the spell. If you aim at a specific magical effect, such as Sleep or Charmed, the spell will counteract these effects on the targeted creature. For example, if PC A and PC B are both under the effect of Confusion, cast by NPC 1, and PC C casts Dispel Magic on PC A, PC B would remain confused. However, if PC C targets NPC 1, both PC A and PC B would no longer be affected by the Confusion spell.

Limiting the Scope

The Dispel Magic spell primarily removes the spells affecting the chosen target. It does nothing to magical effects that are not spells unless the magical effect replicates a spell. For instance, a 1st-level magic sword has the same effect as Magical Weapon, but it is not a spell. Alternatively, using a Ring of Jumping or a Staff of Power to cast Levitate can be dispelled because these items or abilities replicate a spell.

Targeting Specific Spell Effects

The spell requires the caster to identify the exact spell that they wish to dispel. This could be on a single creature or a wider area spell like Grease or Hallucinatory Terrain. It also works on individual spell effects on creatures, like Slow, even if multiple creatures are affected. If you know the spell to target, you can dispel the effect on an ally without affecting a different spell, such as Bless, which might be active on the same creature.

DM Interpretation and RAW

According to the Rule as Written (RAW), Dispel Magic targets only the intended recipient. As a DM, you have the flexibility to rule that a successful cast of Dispel Magic on a creature concentration spellcaster can end the effect of the spell on everything it is affecting. This interpretation grants more control to the caster, making the spell more versatile.

As a DM, you can allow curses or magical items to be dispelled even if they are not considered spells. An evil idol causing withered crops might be more satisfying to dispel directly, rather than wandering around dispelling each acre of farmland.

Conclusion

Dispel Magic's scope within the game is an area requiring careful consideration. Whether it targets only the individual, the caster source, or the entire area of effect can be a deciding factor in the game's progression. By understanding the nuances of this spell, you can make the experience more engaging and entertaining for both the players and the DM.