What level spell is Scorching Ray?

The spell Scorching Ray is a level 2 spell in the Evocation school. Sorcerer, Wizard all have access to it.

How much damage does Scorching Ray deal?

At base level, Scorching Ray's damage is 2d6 (fire). Higher slots increase the damage as listed.

Does Scorching Ray require a spell attack roll?

To resolve Scorching Ray, the caster makes a spell attack roll against the target's AC.

What is the range of Scorching Ray?

From the caster's position, Scorching Ray reaches 120 feet.

What components and casting time does Scorching Ray need?

The cast: Scorching Ray is cast with V, S, taking the usual Action.

Can Scorching Ray be upcast?

Upcasting Scorching Ray works as follows: You create one additional ray for each spell slot level above 2.

Scorching Ray

Level 2 · Evocation

Damage
Attack Roll

Carried by sorcerer and wizard, Scorching Ray operates at the 2nd level of the evocation school. Cast time: Action. Range 120 feet, components V/S, duration instantaneous. Effect: You hurl three fiery rays. At higher levels: You create one additional ray for each spell slot level above 2.

Stat Block

Level: 2
School: Evocation
Casting Time: Action
Range / Area: 120 feet
Components: V, S
Duration: Instantaneous
Ritual: No
Concentration: No
Classes: Sorcerer, Wizard
Material: —

Description

You hurl three fiery rays. You can hurl them at one target within range or at several. Make a ranged spell attack for each ray. On a hit, the target takes 2d6 Fire damage.

At Higher Levels: You create one additional ray for each spell slot level above 2.

5e (2014) vs 2024 changes

This spell has both a 5e (2014) and 2024 Player's Handbook version. Doungim shows the current 2024 stat block above. Differences between editions typically affect components, range, or scaling — check both source books for the table.

Doungim Lore

School Fit

The Evocation tradition is direct. A spell is cast, an energy is released, a creature loses hit points. The school is the simplest to read and the hardest to play well, because positioning is the difference between a good Fireball and a TPK. Scorching Ray sits in Evocation because the spell focuses magical energy into a visible, immediate effect. At level 2, Scorching Ray sits in the mid-tier slot competition.

Class Fit

Sorcerer: Quicken Spell turns an Action into a Bonus Action; if Scorching Ray costs an Action, Quicken opens a two-spell turn. Scorching Ray has an at-higher-levels rule; the spell's per-slot scaling makes upcasting worthwhile in the right context.
Wizard: Arcane Recovery returns one or two slots on a short rest. Scorching Ray's slot cost is therefore not exactly what the slot column says. Scorching Ray reaches 120 feet, which lets the caster stay clear of the front line.

Sorcerer spells Wizard spells Evocation school Level 2

Related Spells

Frequently Asked Questions about Scorching Ray

What level spell is Scorching Ray?: The spell Scorching Ray is a level 2 spell in the Evocation school. Sorcerer, Wizard all have access to it.
How much damage does Scorching Ray deal?: At base level, Scorching Ray's damage is 2d6 (fire). Higher slots increase the damage as listed.
Does Scorching Ray require a spell attack roll?: To resolve Scorching Ray, the caster makes a spell attack roll against the target's AC.
What is the range of Scorching Ray?: From the caster's position, Scorching Ray reaches 120 feet.
What components and casting time does Scorching Ray need?: The cast: Scorching Ray is cast with V, S, taking the usual Action.
Can Scorching Ray be upcast?: Upcasting Scorching Ray works as follows: You create one additional ray for each spell slot level above 2.

Scan to open Scorching Ray on your phone