At a glance
Level2
SchoolAlteration
Range20 yds./level
ComponentsV / S / M
Duration1 turn/level
Casting time2
Area of effect1 creature or object
Saving throwNeg.
ReversibleNo
SourcePHB p. 185
Description
When a levitate spell is cast, the wizard can place it upon his person, an object, or a single creature, subject to a maximum weight limit of 100 pounds per of experience (for example, a 3rd-level wizard can levitate a maximum of 300 pounds). If the spell is cast upon the wizard, he can vertically up or down at a movement rate of 2 per . If cast upon an object or another creature, the wizard can levitate it at the same speed, according to his command. This spell does not empower horizontal movement, but the recipient could push along the face of a cliff, for example, to move laterally. The spellcaster can cancel the spell as desired. If the subject of the spell is unwilling, or the object is in the possession of a creature, a vs. spell is allowed to determine if the levitate spell affects it.
Once cast, the spell requires no concentration, except when changing height. A levitating creature attempting to use a missile weapon finds himself increasingly unstable; the first attack has an penalty of –1, the second –2, the third –3, etc., up to a maximum of –5. A full round spent stabilizing allows the creature to begin again at –1. Lack of leverage makes it impossible to cock a medium or heavy crossbow.
The of this spell is either a small leather loop or a piece of golden wire bent into a cup shape with a long shank on one end.