Phantasmal Killer

4th-level Illusion

System Reference Document 5.2 (D&D 2024) · Content reviewed 2026-07-11

Phantasmal Killer is a 4th-level illusion spell in D&D 5e (2024). You tap into the nightmares of a creature you can see within range and create an illusion of its deepest fears, visible only to that creature. The target makes a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes 4d10 Psychic damage and has…

Casting Time
1 action
Range
120 feet
Components
V, S
Duration
Concentration, up to 1 minute
Damage Type
Psychic
Classes
Bard, Wizard

You tap into the nightmares of a creature you can see within range and create an illusion of its deepest fears, visible only to that creature. The target makes a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes 4d10 Psychic damage and has Disadvantage on ability checks and attack rolls for the duration. On a successful save, the target takes half as much damage, and the spell ends. For the duration, the target makes a Wisdom saving throw at the end of each of its turns. On a failed save, it takes the Psychic damage again. On a successful save, the spell ends.

Using a higher-level spell slot

The damage increases by 1d10 for each spell slot level above 4.

Common questions

What level is Phantasmal Killer?

Phantasmal Killer is a 4th-level illusion spell in the 2024 D&D rules.

What is the casting time of Phantasmal Killer?

Phantasmal Killer has a casting time of 1 action, with a range of 120 feet.

Does Phantasmal Killer require concentration?

Yes. Phantasmal Killer requires concentration, lasting 1 minute.