The Stinking Cloud spell in D&D 5e creates a thick, noxious cloud that fills a defined area and punishes any creature that lingers within. Designed as a low-level area control option, it trades raw damage for oppressive battlefield presence and difficult terrain.
Below you will find a detailed breakdown of its mechanics, tactical uses, and common interactions, presented in an easy-to-scan format for quick reference at your table.
| Spell Name | Level | School | Primary Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stinking Cloud | 2nd | Conjuration | Creates a 20-foot-radius cloud of foul gas |
| Concentration | Up to 10 minutes | Attack Type | Constitution saving throw |
| On Failed Save | Poisoned condition | Hit Effect | 5 (1d10) poison damage |
| On Successful Save | Half damage, no condition | Movement | Difficult terrain |
Concentration Duration and Mechanics
How Long Does the Cloud Last
Stinking Cloud requires concentration, so it ends if you lose focus, drop to 0 hit points, or cast another concentration spell. The base duration is up to 10 minutes, giving you control over when the cloud dissipates or lingers to choke key choke points.
Area and Interaction Rules
The cloud spreads around corners and fills its space as a difficult terrain zone. Creatures that start their turn inside must succeed on a Constitution save or become poisoned, while those that enter for the first time on a turn also risk the save. Wind can disperse the cloud earlier, and it does not function underwater.
Tactical Uses in Combat
Blocking Line of Sight and Movement
Place the cloud to separate fragile allies from enemies or to cover dangerous approaches. The difficult terrain slows enemy advances, while the poisoned condition hampers damage output and concentration-heavy spellcasters.
Combining with Area Effects
Pair Stinking Cloud with fire, lightning, or area spells that ignore cover. Enemies trapped inside the cloud often fail their saving throws against follow-up damage, making the spell an excellent setup for burst damage or control-focused builds.
Counterplay and Spell Interactions
Dispelling and Defenses
The cloud can be dispelled with counterspell or destroyed by strong winds created by spells like Gust of Wind or Control Wind. Additionally, spells that grant resistance or immunity to poison reduce its effectiveness but do not remove the difficult terrain.
Optimizing Your Use of Stinking Cloud
- Use the cloud to control key choke points and funnel enemies into kill zones.
- Coordinate with teammates who can exploit the poisoned condition and difficult terrain.
- Time concentration checks before hazardous moments to avoid losing the spell prematurely.
- Select spells that ignore cover or force enemies to move through the cloud for maximum impact.
- Keep track of enemy saves to decide whether to maintain the cloud or switch to another control option.
FAQ
Reader questions
Does Stinking Cloud work underwater
No, the cloud cannot function underwater, since the spell specifies it cannot fill a space that is entirely water.
Can creatures hide inside the cloud
Yes,creatures inside the cloud have total cover against attacks from creatures outside it, making it a useful screen for repositioning or rescuing allies.
Does the cloud damage objects or items
No, Stinking Cloud only affects creatures and does not harm objects, unattended gear, or structures.
What happens if I cast another concentration spell while the cloud is active
Casting another concentration spell forces you to make a Constitution save or lose the Stinking Cloud, so plan your spell sequencing carefully during combat.