Control Flames (Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition) - Spell Review

Spell Level: Cantrip
School: Transmutation
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 60 feet
Components: S
Duration: Instantaneous or 1 hour (depending on the effect)

Overview: Control Flames is a versatile transmutation cantrip that allows spellcasters to manipulate nonmagical fires within a limited range. While it doesn’t deal damage directly, it offers utility in both combat and non-combat situations, making it a valuable tool for creative problem-solving.

Mechanics: Control Flames lets you choose one of several effects within a 5-foot cube of nonmagical fire you can see within range. You can:

  1. Expand the fire's size, doubling its area.

  2. Extinguish the fire.

  3. Cause the fire to form simple shapes and animate them as you like.

  4. Change the fire’s color.

You can have up to three effects active at the same time, but can only perform one effect per action.

Pros:

  1. Utility and Versatility: Offers multiple effects that can be useful in a variety of scenarios, from lighting a campfire to creating distractions.

  2. No Material Components: Only requires somatic components, making it easy to cast in most situations.

  3. Control Over Fire: Provides significant control over nonmagical flames, allowing for creative problem-solving and tactical advantages.

Cons:

  1. Limited to Nonmagical Fire: Only affects nonmagical fire, limiting its utility in some magical environments or against magical threats.

  2. No Direct Damage: Does not deal damage, so its combat utility is more indirect compared to damage-dealing cantrips.

  3. Small Area of Effect: Each effect is limited to a 5-foot cube, which may be restrictive in larger-scale scenarios.

Conclusion: Control Flames is an excellent cantrip for spellcasters who value utility and creativity. Its ability to manipulate fire in various ways can provide both tactical advantages in combat and practical benefits in non-combat situations. While it doesn’t deal damage and is limited to nonmagical flames, its versatility and ease of use make it a worthwhile addition to any spellcaster’s repertoire, particularly those who frequently encounter or rely on fire.