Can I cast Thunderwave and be at the center of its bottom face, but not be affected by it? Announcing the arrival of Valued Associate #679: Cesar Manara Planned maintenance scheduled April 17/18, 2019 at 00:00UTC (8:00pm US/Eastern) Time to retire the [rules-as-written] tag?Is Thunderwave centered on the caster?Spell Area of Effect RangeIs there a difference between cube areas-of-effect with Self or 5-feet ranges?Can a spell with a Cylinder area of effect have its point of origin higher than the listed height?Can you choose not to affect yourself with area of effect spells?What qualifies for the target of a spell?Range of dispel magic greater when used as area dispelWhat area does the Hallow spell actually cover?Can a cylinder-shaped spell be cast on air?Aiming a spell: GreaseHow does orienting a cube-shaped spell work in three-dimensional space?Does a persistent spell effect cast on a moving platform move with the platform, or is it fixed in space?Is there a difference between cube areas-of-effect with Self or 5-feet ranges?

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Can I cast Thunderwave and be at the center of its bottom face, but not be affected by it?



Announcing the arrival of Valued Associate #679: Cesar Manara
Planned maintenance scheduled April 17/18, 2019 at 00:00UTC (8:00pm US/Eastern)
Time to retire the [rules-as-written] tag?Is Thunderwave centered on the caster?Spell Area of Effect RangeIs there a difference between cube areas-of-effect with Self or 5-feet ranges?Can a spell with a Cylinder area of effect have its point of origin higher than the listed height?Can you choose not to affect yourself with area of effect spells?What qualifies for the target of a spell?Range of dispel magic greater when used as area dispelWhat area does the Hallow spell actually cover?Can a cylinder-shaped spell be cast on air?Aiming a spell: GreaseHow does orienting a cube-shaped spell work in three-dimensional space?Does a persistent spell effect cast on a moving platform move with the platform, or is it fixed in space?Is there a difference between cube areas-of-effect with Self or 5-feet ranges?



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11












$begingroup$


Questions like this and this show that you cast Thunderwave as a cube, and you (the point of origin) stand at one of the cube's faces. From the PHB (emphasis mine):




You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. [...] A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




If



  • I'm on the ground

  • I cast ThunderWave at ground level

  • I choose to be at the center of the cube's bottom face

Can I choose not to be affected by the spell's area of effect?



enter image description here



So I could potentially explode and push 8 creatures away from me, without damaging myself.










share|improve this question











$endgroup$







  • 2




    $begingroup$
    You should clarify whether you want to affect "adjacent" creatures that are "on the ground". The question in the title, and the bolded section, seem like a different question to the bolded section.
    $endgroup$
    – Andrzej Doyle
    Apr 1 at 16:56










  • $begingroup$
    @AndrzejDoyle Edited and added images for clarity
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 15:53

















11












$begingroup$


Questions like this and this show that you cast Thunderwave as a cube, and you (the point of origin) stand at one of the cube's faces. From the PHB (emphasis mine):




You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. [...] A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




If



  • I'm on the ground

  • I cast ThunderWave at ground level

  • I choose to be at the center of the cube's bottom face

Can I choose not to be affected by the spell's area of effect?



enter image description here



So I could potentially explode and push 8 creatures away from me, without damaging myself.










share|improve this question











$endgroup$







  • 2




    $begingroup$
    You should clarify whether you want to affect "adjacent" creatures that are "on the ground". The question in the title, and the bolded section, seem like a different question to the bolded section.
    $endgroup$
    – Andrzej Doyle
    Apr 1 at 16:56










  • $begingroup$
    @AndrzejDoyle Edited and added images for clarity
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 15:53













11












11








11


1



$begingroup$


Questions like this and this show that you cast Thunderwave as a cube, and you (the point of origin) stand at one of the cube's faces. From the PHB (emphasis mine):




You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. [...] A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




If



  • I'm on the ground

  • I cast ThunderWave at ground level

  • I choose to be at the center of the cube's bottom face

Can I choose not to be affected by the spell's area of effect?



enter image description here



So I could potentially explode and push 8 creatures away from me, without damaging myself.










share|improve this question











$endgroup$




Questions like this and this show that you cast Thunderwave as a cube, and you (the point of origin) stand at one of the cube's faces. From the PHB (emphasis mine):




You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. [...] A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




If



  • I'm on the ground

  • I cast ThunderWave at ground level

  • I choose to be at the center of the cube's bottom face

Can I choose not to be affected by the spell's area of effect?



enter image description here



So I could potentially explode and push 8 creatures away from me, without damaging myself.







dnd-5e spells area-of-effect






share|improve this question















share|improve this question













share|improve this question




share|improve this question








edited Apr 2 at 15:53







BlueMoon93

















asked Apr 1 at 12:35









BlueMoon93BlueMoon93

16.1k1189158




16.1k1189158







  • 2




    $begingroup$
    You should clarify whether you want to affect "adjacent" creatures that are "on the ground". The question in the title, and the bolded section, seem like a different question to the bolded section.
    $endgroup$
    – Andrzej Doyle
    Apr 1 at 16:56










  • $begingroup$
    @AndrzejDoyle Edited and added images for clarity
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 15:53












  • 2




    $begingroup$
    You should clarify whether you want to affect "adjacent" creatures that are "on the ground". The question in the title, and the bolded section, seem like a different question to the bolded section.
    $endgroup$
    – Andrzej Doyle
    Apr 1 at 16:56










  • $begingroup$
    @AndrzejDoyle Edited and added images for clarity
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 15:53







2




2




$begingroup$
You should clarify whether you want to affect "adjacent" creatures that are "on the ground". The question in the title, and the bolded section, seem like a different question to the bolded section.
$endgroup$
– Andrzej Doyle
Apr 1 at 16:56




$begingroup$
You should clarify whether you want to affect "adjacent" creatures that are "on the ground". The question in the title, and the bolded section, seem like a different question to the bolded section.
$endgroup$
– Andrzej Doyle
Apr 1 at 16:56












$begingroup$
@AndrzejDoyle Edited and added images for clarity
$endgroup$
– BlueMoon93
Apr 2 at 15:53




$begingroup$
@AndrzejDoyle Edited and added images for clarity
$endgroup$
– BlueMoon93
Apr 2 at 15:53










5 Answers
5






active

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Unfortunately, no (with one possible exception).



Although this isn't the place to say perhaps, I think I have a slight contention with the answers to the related questions on whether the caster including themselves in the area of effect, is completely inside the area in the way portrayed. I see this more as just the point of origin affecting the caster (as it says) but not that the entire area of effect has shifted.



Typically this would be so the caster can affect himself with a beneficial effect, which is likely the intention. In other words, the area of effect projects out in front (see the diagram below), but the caster, right on the point of origin, can be affected or not.



 xxx
cxxx
xxx


Nevertheless.



Even accepting the ruling given on the previous question, your scenario would only possibly work against larger creatures.



Either you are in the area and hence affected by the spell.
Or you are not, which would mean the only way you could be in the center square of a cubic area of effect, yet not affected, would be if the cube was above you (or below you if you were somehow flying?). In this case a DM may rule it would only affect creatures that are taller than you, and tall enough to be affected by the blast that has just gone off above your head.




Nahyn Oklauq points out that it would be possible to lie down and cast Thunderwave from the ground, hence affecting same-sized creatures. This is playing a bit fast and loose with the rules (which are really geared towards a 2D map rather than these kind of 3D shenanigans), so would probably be DM fiat as to whether he would allow it.






share|improve this answer











$endgroup$








  • 1




    $begingroup$
    For your "Nevertheless", I would add another case : if the caster is prone (or go prone on purpose) and cast it from the ground, Medium and even Small creatures could be in the area. But that's only if the GM is okay with a bit of "tactical 3D combat" trickery
    $endgroup$
    – Nahyn Oklauq
    Apr 1 at 15:15






  • 1




    $begingroup$
    This would only work with GM Fiat ("because it makes sense"); you are not any lower (on a grid system) when prone than you would be standing. You still occupy the same 5ftx5ftx5ft 'box' and your range is unchanged.
    $endgroup$
    – Ifusaso
    Apr 1 at 17:10










  • $begingroup$
    I've edited the answer a bit (mostly grammar and style). Please revise. I think I will accept this, it was the most helpful for me, even if it didn't have the most upvotes
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 15:42











  • $begingroup$
    Yes, that's fine. And totally accept Ifusaso's comment that the "lying prone" scenario would only work if the DM ignores the grid system (and this is really starting to drift from the intention of the spell IMHO)
    $endgroup$
    – PJRZ
    Apr 2 at 15:55


















10












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Yes, assuming you are casting Thunderwave straight up



The spell states:




A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you. Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you...




And as you quoted from the PHB:




You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




Together we can deduce that you (the caster) are the point of origin (from the spell), and the point of origin needs to be a point on a face of the cube (from the spellcasting section), and you can choose to include the point of origin in the spells effect or not (also from the spellcasting section).



Subject to your DMs philosophies on grid-maps, you can orient the 15ft cube of the spell in any direction you want, including straight up or down. If you choose the point of origin to be in the centre of a face (of the cube) creatures directly beside you (on the plane) would be inside the area of the effect and thus be subject to making the saving throw. Directing the cube to fill the 15ft of the air above you would catch creatures on your level and above, pushing them "10 feet away from you", as per the spell.






share|improve this answer









$endgroup$












  • $begingroup$
    Out of the box thinking to address a box-of-thunderwave going off above you. 3D FTW! Nice answer. Death to Stirges and Bats!
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 15:24






  • 4




    $begingroup$
    Would it really catch creatures on your level? Or just creatures above you? I guess it depends on whether the "point of origin" is defined to be a specific point (e.g. your fingertip) or the entire 5-foot cube that you occupy.
    $endgroup$
    – Ryan Thompson
    Apr 1 at 17:16






  • 1




    $begingroup$
    I guess you could fall prone, cast the spell, then stand back up.
    $endgroup$
    – Ryan Thompson
    Apr 1 at 17:23






  • 2




    $begingroup$
    I didn't understand how I can cast the cube above me, and creatures next to me on the ground are also affected. Can you clarify?
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 8:35


















3












$begingroup$

No, and No



Firstly, thunderwave only specifies that it harms creatures in its area of effect (no other creatures):




Each creature in a 15-foot cube [...]




If you were to be in its area, then you would be subject to damage (and presumably the push effect). However and secondly, thunderwave repeatedly used the word from:




A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you.

Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you must make a Constitution saving throw.




(emphasis mine) This indicates that the cube must be pointed away from you, and so you can't put yourself into its area of effect.






share|improve this answer











$endgroup$












  • $begingroup$
    If you're at the center, the cube can still originate from you, similar to a spherical explosion, don't you agree? Anyhow, I think you should make an answer with your argument on the questions I've linked, and narrow this answer to my question
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 1 at 13:29











  • $begingroup$
    Except as you state in the question you are at its face, so for you (the point of origin) to be at its bottom face, the spell effect would be above you, and so only affect creatures that occupied more vertical space.
    $endgroup$
    – Someone_Evil
    Apr 1 at 13:33










  • $begingroup$
    Ah, you argue that I (the point of origin) must be outside the cube. I don't agree, but I understand your answer now
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 1 at 14:08










  • $begingroup$
    (Edit was for some prose/usage corrections. Nicely reasoned answer. +1 ) :)
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 15:23










  • $begingroup$
    Could "from" not mean "source?" That is, from the caster instead of originating from a point she can see in 30'? In this sense, couldn't the caster have the cube emanate (say) centered on/from her big toe upward?
    $endgroup$
    – Rykara
    Apr 1 at 18:55


















3












$begingroup$

Yes, if you are a Storm Sorcerer at 18th level.




Wind Soul

At 18th level, you gain immunity to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




If you are a sixth level Storm Sorcerer, you have resistance to your own damage.




Heart of the Storm

At 6th level, you gain Resistance to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




You can maybe do it from the Top Face as a First Level Storm Sorcerer




Tempestuous Magic

Starting at 1st level, you can use a Bonus Action on Your Turn to cause whirling gusts of elemental air to briefly surround you, immediately before or after you Cast a Spell of 1st level or higher. Doing so allows you to fly up to 10 feet without provoking Opportunity Attacks. (XGtE)




This would work better when standing on a bridge or a ledge than on a hard floor.



But if, as you noted in comments, you are playing a wizard ...



Yes1 - if you are a Wizard(Evoker) of 2d level or higher.



The sculpt spells feature allows you to do this if you are a wizard of the evocation school.




Sculpt Spells

Beginning at 2nd level, you can create pockets of relative safety within the effects of your evocation spells. When you cast an evocation spell that affects other creatures that you can see, you can choose a number of them equal to 1 + the spell’s level. The chosen creatures automatically succeed on their saving throws against the spell, and they take no damage if they would normally take half damage on a successful save. (Basic Rules, p. 34)




You can see yourself, so you can include yourself in the protected zone.




On a failed save, a creature takes 2d8 thunder damage and is pushed 10
feet away from you.




As I don't see a way to push yourself away from yourself, the caster would not be subject to the pushing effect in this case.




1Caveat



@illustro points out that this interpretation may not fit RAW as strictly as possible, since "other" generally doesn't include one's self. While I think it fits - we can call that a RAF view of this feature - a given DM may take illustro's point on a strict reading of the rules and not allow sculpt spells to apply.



(FWIW, this did come up in a game where I was DM, and since the Wizard was an evoker, I allowed it since it makes sense to me. I can see the other ruling as well).



Rulings and Rules ...



Mike Mearls (one of the devs) is of the opinion that you can save yourself, but I have not found Jeremy Crawford's take on that question - his rulings are more authoritative than Mike's. Sculpt spells is not addressed in the most recent Sage Advice Compendium (version 2.3), nor in the PHB errata.






share|improve this answer











$endgroup$








  • 2




    $begingroup$
    The Sculpt Spell ability only enables you to make other creatures save automatically, not yourself unfortunately. Though as a DM and RaF I'd allow it!
    $endgroup$
    – illustro
    Apr 1 at 14:55










  • $begingroup$
    @illustro I'll add your point as a caveat, thanks!
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 14:56


















0












$begingroup$

You can definitely include yourself



It is right in your cited explanation of cube range:




A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




That is akin to putting yourself in the range of the spell. Even if this were not the case, you could still have the origin outside the range, and have yourself in it.



You might be able to avoid damage, if and only if you are an Evocation Wizard



Evocation wizards can sculpt spells to avoid hitting allies. However, whether you can do this is subject to interpretation:




Sculpt Spells

... that affects other creatures you can see ...




(emphasis mine)



It is up to you and your DM whether other refers to non-target creatures or not yourself, but I believe it is the former.






share|improve this answer









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    5 Answers
    5






    active

    oldest

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    5 Answers
    5






    active

    oldest

    votes









    active

    oldest

    votes






    active

    oldest

    votes









    6












    $begingroup$

    Unfortunately, no (with one possible exception).



    Although this isn't the place to say perhaps, I think I have a slight contention with the answers to the related questions on whether the caster including themselves in the area of effect, is completely inside the area in the way portrayed. I see this more as just the point of origin affecting the caster (as it says) but not that the entire area of effect has shifted.



    Typically this would be so the caster can affect himself with a beneficial effect, which is likely the intention. In other words, the area of effect projects out in front (see the diagram below), but the caster, right on the point of origin, can be affected or not.



     xxx
    cxxx
    xxx


    Nevertheless.



    Even accepting the ruling given on the previous question, your scenario would only possibly work against larger creatures.



    Either you are in the area and hence affected by the spell.
    Or you are not, which would mean the only way you could be in the center square of a cubic area of effect, yet not affected, would be if the cube was above you (or below you if you were somehow flying?). In this case a DM may rule it would only affect creatures that are taller than you, and tall enough to be affected by the blast that has just gone off above your head.




    Nahyn Oklauq points out that it would be possible to lie down and cast Thunderwave from the ground, hence affecting same-sized creatures. This is playing a bit fast and loose with the rules (which are really geared towards a 2D map rather than these kind of 3D shenanigans), so would probably be DM fiat as to whether he would allow it.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$








    • 1




      $begingroup$
      For your "Nevertheless", I would add another case : if the caster is prone (or go prone on purpose) and cast it from the ground, Medium and even Small creatures could be in the area. But that's only if the GM is okay with a bit of "tactical 3D combat" trickery
      $endgroup$
      – Nahyn Oklauq
      Apr 1 at 15:15






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      This would only work with GM Fiat ("because it makes sense"); you are not any lower (on a grid system) when prone than you would be standing. You still occupy the same 5ftx5ftx5ft 'box' and your range is unchanged.
      $endgroup$
      – Ifusaso
      Apr 1 at 17:10










    • $begingroup$
      I've edited the answer a bit (mostly grammar and style). Please revise. I think I will accept this, it was the most helpful for me, even if it didn't have the most upvotes
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 15:42











    • $begingroup$
      Yes, that's fine. And totally accept Ifusaso's comment that the "lying prone" scenario would only work if the DM ignores the grid system (and this is really starting to drift from the intention of the spell IMHO)
      $endgroup$
      – PJRZ
      Apr 2 at 15:55















    6












    $begingroup$

    Unfortunately, no (with one possible exception).



    Although this isn't the place to say perhaps, I think I have a slight contention with the answers to the related questions on whether the caster including themselves in the area of effect, is completely inside the area in the way portrayed. I see this more as just the point of origin affecting the caster (as it says) but not that the entire area of effect has shifted.



    Typically this would be so the caster can affect himself with a beneficial effect, which is likely the intention. In other words, the area of effect projects out in front (see the diagram below), but the caster, right on the point of origin, can be affected or not.



     xxx
    cxxx
    xxx


    Nevertheless.



    Even accepting the ruling given on the previous question, your scenario would only possibly work against larger creatures.



    Either you are in the area and hence affected by the spell.
    Or you are not, which would mean the only way you could be in the center square of a cubic area of effect, yet not affected, would be if the cube was above you (or below you if you were somehow flying?). In this case a DM may rule it would only affect creatures that are taller than you, and tall enough to be affected by the blast that has just gone off above your head.




    Nahyn Oklauq points out that it would be possible to lie down and cast Thunderwave from the ground, hence affecting same-sized creatures. This is playing a bit fast and loose with the rules (which are really geared towards a 2D map rather than these kind of 3D shenanigans), so would probably be DM fiat as to whether he would allow it.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$








    • 1




      $begingroup$
      For your "Nevertheless", I would add another case : if the caster is prone (or go prone on purpose) and cast it from the ground, Medium and even Small creatures could be in the area. But that's only if the GM is okay with a bit of "tactical 3D combat" trickery
      $endgroup$
      – Nahyn Oklauq
      Apr 1 at 15:15






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      This would only work with GM Fiat ("because it makes sense"); you are not any lower (on a grid system) when prone than you would be standing. You still occupy the same 5ftx5ftx5ft 'box' and your range is unchanged.
      $endgroup$
      – Ifusaso
      Apr 1 at 17:10










    • $begingroup$
      I've edited the answer a bit (mostly grammar and style). Please revise. I think I will accept this, it was the most helpful for me, even if it didn't have the most upvotes
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 15:42











    • $begingroup$
      Yes, that's fine. And totally accept Ifusaso's comment that the "lying prone" scenario would only work if the DM ignores the grid system (and this is really starting to drift from the intention of the spell IMHO)
      $endgroup$
      – PJRZ
      Apr 2 at 15:55













    6












    6








    6





    $begingroup$

    Unfortunately, no (with one possible exception).



    Although this isn't the place to say perhaps, I think I have a slight contention with the answers to the related questions on whether the caster including themselves in the area of effect, is completely inside the area in the way portrayed. I see this more as just the point of origin affecting the caster (as it says) but not that the entire area of effect has shifted.



    Typically this would be so the caster can affect himself with a beneficial effect, which is likely the intention. In other words, the area of effect projects out in front (see the diagram below), but the caster, right on the point of origin, can be affected or not.



     xxx
    cxxx
    xxx


    Nevertheless.



    Even accepting the ruling given on the previous question, your scenario would only possibly work against larger creatures.



    Either you are in the area and hence affected by the spell.
    Or you are not, which would mean the only way you could be in the center square of a cubic area of effect, yet not affected, would be if the cube was above you (or below you if you were somehow flying?). In this case a DM may rule it would only affect creatures that are taller than you, and tall enough to be affected by the blast that has just gone off above your head.




    Nahyn Oklauq points out that it would be possible to lie down and cast Thunderwave from the ground, hence affecting same-sized creatures. This is playing a bit fast and loose with the rules (which are really geared towards a 2D map rather than these kind of 3D shenanigans), so would probably be DM fiat as to whether he would allow it.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$



    Unfortunately, no (with one possible exception).



    Although this isn't the place to say perhaps, I think I have a slight contention with the answers to the related questions on whether the caster including themselves in the area of effect, is completely inside the area in the way portrayed. I see this more as just the point of origin affecting the caster (as it says) but not that the entire area of effect has shifted.



    Typically this would be so the caster can affect himself with a beneficial effect, which is likely the intention. In other words, the area of effect projects out in front (see the diagram below), but the caster, right on the point of origin, can be affected or not.



     xxx
    cxxx
    xxx


    Nevertheless.



    Even accepting the ruling given on the previous question, your scenario would only possibly work against larger creatures.



    Either you are in the area and hence affected by the spell.
    Or you are not, which would mean the only way you could be in the center square of a cubic area of effect, yet not affected, would be if the cube was above you (or below you if you were somehow flying?). In this case a DM may rule it would only affect creatures that are taller than you, and tall enough to be affected by the blast that has just gone off above your head.




    Nahyn Oklauq points out that it would be possible to lie down and cast Thunderwave from the ground, hence affecting same-sized creatures. This is playing a bit fast and loose with the rules (which are really geared towards a 2D map rather than these kind of 3D shenanigans), so would probably be DM fiat as to whether he would allow it.







    share|improve this answer














    share|improve this answer



    share|improve this answer








    edited Apr 2 at 15:42









    BlueMoon93

    16.1k1189158




    16.1k1189158










    answered Apr 1 at 13:22









    PJRZPJRZ

    12.6k14059




    12.6k14059







    • 1




      $begingroup$
      For your "Nevertheless", I would add another case : if the caster is prone (or go prone on purpose) and cast it from the ground, Medium and even Small creatures could be in the area. But that's only if the GM is okay with a bit of "tactical 3D combat" trickery
      $endgroup$
      – Nahyn Oklauq
      Apr 1 at 15:15






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      This would only work with GM Fiat ("because it makes sense"); you are not any lower (on a grid system) when prone than you would be standing. You still occupy the same 5ftx5ftx5ft 'box' and your range is unchanged.
      $endgroup$
      – Ifusaso
      Apr 1 at 17:10










    • $begingroup$
      I've edited the answer a bit (mostly grammar and style). Please revise. I think I will accept this, it was the most helpful for me, even if it didn't have the most upvotes
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 15:42











    • $begingroup$
      Yes, that's fine. And totally accept Ifusaso's comment that the "lying prone" scenario would only work if the DM ignores the grid system (and this is really starting to drift from the intention of the spell IMHO)
      $endgroup$
      – PJRZ
      Apr 2 at 15:55












    • 1




      $begingroup$
      For your "Nevertheless", I would add another case : if the caster is prone (or go prone on purpose) and cast it from the ground, Medium and even Small creatures could be in the area. But that's only if the GM is okay with a bit of "tactical 3D combat" trickery
      $endgroup$
      – Nahyn Oklauq
      Apr 1 at 15:15






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      This would only work with GM Fiat ("because it makes sense"); you are not any lower (on a grid system) when prone than you would be standing. You still occupy the same 5ftx5ftx5ft 'box' and your range is unchanged.
      $endgroup$
      – Ifusaso
      Apr 1 at 17:10










    • $begingroup$
      I've edited the answer a bit (mostly grammar and style). Please revise. I think I will accept this, it was the most helpful for me, even if it didn't have the most upvotes
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 15:42











    • $begingroup$
      Yes, that's fine. And totally accept Ifusaso's comment that the "lying prone" scenario would only work if the DM ignores the grid system (and this is really starting to drift from the intention of the spell IMHO)
      $endgroup$
      – PJRZ
      Apr 2 at 15:55







    1




    1




    $begingroup$
    For your "Nevertheless", I would add another case : if the caster is prone (or go prone on purpose) and cast it from the ground, Medium and even Small creatures could be in the area. But that's only if the GM is okay with a bit of "tactical 3D combat" trickery
    $endgroup$
    – Nahyn Oklauq
    Apr 1 at 15:15




    $begingroup$
    For your "Nevertheless", I would add another case : if the caster is prone (or go prone on purpose) and cast it from the ground, Medium and even Small creatures could be in the area. But that's only if the GM is okay with a bit of "tactical 3D combat" trickery
    $endgroup$
    – Nahyn Oklauq
    Apr 1 at 15:15




    1




    1




    $begingroup$
    This would only work with GM Fiat ("because it makes sense"); you are not any lower (on a grid system) when prone than you would be standing. You still occupy the same 5ftx5ftx5ft 'box' and your range is unchanged.
    $endgroup$
    – Ifusaso
    Apr 1 at 17:10




    $begingroup$
    This would only work with GM Fiat ("because it makes sense"); you are not any lower (on a grid system) when prone than you would be standing. You still occupy the same 5ftx5ftx5ft 'box' and your range is unchanged.
    $endgroup$
    – Ifusaso
    Apr 1 at 17:10












    $begingroup$
    I've edited the answer a bit (mostly grammar and style). Please revise. I think I will accept this, it was the most helpful for me, even if it didn't have the most upvotes
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 15:42





    $begingroup$
    I've edited the answer a bit (mostly grammar and style). Please revise. I think I will accept this, it was the most helpful for me, even if it didn't have the most upvotes
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 15:42













    $begingroup$
    Yes, that's fine. And totally accept Ifusaso's comment that the "lying prone" scenario would only work if the DM ignores the grid system (and this is really starting to drift from the intention of the spell IMHO)
    $endgroup$
    – PJRZ
    Apr 2 at 15:55




    $begingroup$
    Yes, that's fine. And totally accept Ifusaso's comment that the "lying prone" scenario would only work if the DM ignores the grid system (and this is really starting to drift from the intention of the spell IMHO)
    $endgroup$
    – PJRZ
    Apr 2 at 15:55













    10












    $begingroup$

    Yes, assuming you are casting Thunderwave straight up



    The spell states:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you. Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you...




    And as you quoted from the PHB:




    You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




    Together we can deduce that you (the caster) are the point of origin (from the spell), and the point of origin needs to be a point on a face of the cube (from the spellcasting section), and you can choose to include the point of origin in the spells effect or not (also from the spellcasting section).



    Subject to your DMs philosophies on grid-maps, you can orient the 15ft cube of the spell in any direction you want, including straight up or down. If you choose the point of origin to be in the centre of a face (of the cube) creatures directly beside you (on the plane) would be inside the area of the effect and thus be subject to making the saving throw. Directing the cube to fill the 15ft of the air above you would catch creatures on your level and above, pushing them "10 feet away from you", as per the spell.






    share|improve this answer









    $endgroup$












    • $begingroup$
      Out of the box thinking to address a box-of-thunderwave going off above you. 3D FTW! Nice answer. Death to Stirges and Bats!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:24






    • 4




      $begingroup$
      Would it really catch creatures on your level? Or just creatures above you? I guess it depends on whether the "point of origin" is defined to be a specific point (e.g. your fingertip) or the entire 5-foot cube that you occupy.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:16






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      I guess you could fall prone, cast the spell, then stand back up.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:23






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      I didn't understand how I can cast the cube above me, and creatures next to me on the ground are also affected. Can you clarify?
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 8:35















    10












    $begingroup$

    Yes, assuming you are casting Thunderwave straight up



    The spell states:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you. Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you...




    And as you quoted from the PHB:




    You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




    Together we can deduce that you (the caster) are the point of origin (from the spell), and the point of origin needs to be a point on a face of the cube (from the spellcasting section), and you can choose to include the point of origin in the spells effect or not (also from the spellcasting section).



    Subject to your DMs philosophies on grid-maps, you can orient the 15ft cube of the spell in any direction you want, including straight up or down. If you choose the point of origin to be in the centre of a face (of the cube) creatures directly beside you (on the plane) would be inside the area of the effect and thus be subject to making the saving throw. Directing the cube to fill the 15ft of the air above you would catch creatures on your level and above, pushing them "10 feet away from you", as per the spell.






    share|improve this answer









    $endgroup$












    • $begingroup$
      Out of the box thinking to address a box-of-thunderwave going off above you. 3D FTW! Nice answer. Death to Stirges and Bats!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:24






    • 4




      $begingroup$
      Would it really catch creatures on your level? Or just creatures above you? I guess it depends on whether the "point of origin" is defined to be a specific point (e.g. your fingertip) or the entire 5-foot cube that you occupy.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:16






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      I guess you could fall prone, cast the spell, then stand back up.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:23






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      I didn't understand how I can cast the cube above me, and creatures next to me on the ground are also affected. Can you clarify?
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 8:35













    10












    10








    10





    $begingroup$

    Yes, assuming you are casting Thunderwave straight up



    The spell states:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you. Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you...




    And as you quoted from the PHB:




    You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




    Together we can deduce that you (the caster) are the point of origin (from the spell), and the point of origin needs to be a point on a face of the cube (from the spellcasting section), and you can choose to include the point of origin in the spells effect or not (also from the spellcasting section).



    Subject to your DMs philosophies on grid-maps, you can orient the 15ft cube of the spell in any direction you want, including straight up or down. If you choose the point of origin to be in the centre of a face (of the cube) creatures directly beside you (on the plane) would be inside the area of the effect and thus be subject to making the saving throw. Directing the cube to fill the 15ft of the air above you would catch creatures on your level and above, pushing them "10 feet away from you", as per the spell.






    share|improve this answer









    $endgroup$



    Yes, assuming you are casting Thunderwave straight up



    The spell states:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you. Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you...




    And as you quoted from the PHB:




    You select a cube's point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face of the cubic effect. A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




    Together we can deduce that you (the caster) are the point of origin (from the spell), and the point of origin needs to be a point on a face of the cube (from the spellcasting section), and you can choose to include the point of origin in the spells effect or not (also from the spellcasting section).



    Subject to your DMs philosophies on grid-maps, you can orient the 15ft cube of the spell in any direction you want, including straight up or down. If you choose the point of origin to be in the centre of a face (of the cube) creatures directly beside you (on the plane) would be inside the area of the effect and thus be subject to making the saving throw. Directing the cube to fill the 15ft of the air above you would catch creatures on your level and above, pushing them "10 feet away from you", as per the spell.







    share|improve this answer












    share|improve this answer



    share|improve this answer










    answered Apr 1 at 15:21









    GreySageGreySage

    16.3k453100




    16.3k453100











    • $begingroup$
      Out of the box thinking to address a box-of-thunderwave going off above you. 3D FTW! Nice answer. Death to Stirges and Bats!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:24






    • 4




      $begingroup$
      Would it really catch creatures on your level? Or just creatures above you? I guess it depends on whether the "point of origin" is defined to be a specific point (e.g. your fingertip) or the entire 5-foot cube that you occupy.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:16






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      I guess you could fall prone, cast the spell, then stand back up.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:23






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      I didn't understand how I can cast the cube above me, and creatures next to me on the ground are also affected. Can you clarify?
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 8:35
















    • $begingroup$
      Out of the box thinking to address a box-of-thunderwave going off above you. 3D FTW! Nice answer. Death to Stirges and Bats!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:24






    • 4




      $begingroup$
      Would it really catch creatures on your level? Or just creatures above you? I guess it depends on whether the "point of origin" is defined to be a specific point (e.g. your fingertip) or the entire 5-foot cube that you occupy.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:16






    • 1




      $begingroup$
      I guess you could fall prone, cast the spell, then stand back up.
      $endgroup$
      – Ryan Thompson
      Apr 1 at 17:23






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      I didn't understand how I can cast the cube above me, and creatures next to me on the ground are also affected. Can you clarify?
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 2 at 8:35















    $begingroup$
    Out of the box thinking to address a box-of-thunderwave going off above you. 3D FTW! Nice answer. Death to Stirges and Bats!
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 15:24




    $begingroup$
    Out of the box thinking to address a box-of-thunderwave going off above you. 3D FTW! Nice answer. Death to Stirges and Bats!
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 15:24




    4




    4




    $begingroup$
    Would it really catch creatures on your level? Or just creatures above you? I guess it depends on whether the "point of origin" is defined to be a specific point (e.g. your fingertip) or the entire 5-foot cube that you occupy.
    $endgroup$
    – Ryan Thompson
    Apr 1 at 17:16




    $begingroup$
    Would it really catch creatures on your level? Or just creatures above you? I guess it depends on whether the "point of origin" is defined to be a specific point (e.g. your fingertip) or the entire 5-foot cube that you occupy.
    $endgroup$
    – Ryan Thompson
    Apr 1 at 17:16




    1




    1




    $begingroup$
    I guess you could fall prone, cast the spell, then stand back up.
    $endgroup$
    – Ryan Thompson
    Apr 1 at 17:23




    $begingroup$
    I guess you could fall prone, cast the spell, then stand back up.
    $endgroup$
    – Ryan Thompson
    Apr 1 at 17:23




    2




    2




    $begingroup$
    I didn't understand how I can cast the cube above me, and creatures next to me on the ground are also affected. Can you clarify?
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 8:35




    $begingroup$
    I didn't understand how I can cast the cube above me, and creatures next to me on the ground are also affected. Can you clarify?
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 2 at 8:35











    3












    $begingroup$

    No, and No



    Firstly, thunderwave only specifies that it harms creatures in its area of effect (no other creatures):




    Each creature in a 15-foot cube [...]




    If you were to be in its area, then you would be subject to damage (and presumably the push effect). However and secondly, thunderwave repeatedly used the word from:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you.

    Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you must make a Constitution saving throw.




    (emphasis mine) This indicates that the cube must be pointed away from you, and so you can't put yourself into its area of effect.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$












    • $begingroup$
      If you're at the center, the cube can still originate from you, similar to a spherical explosion, don't you agree? Anyhow, I think you should make an answer with your argument on the questions I've linked, and narrow this answer to my question
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 13:29











    • $begingroup$
      Except as you state in the question you are at its face, so for you (the point of origin) to be at its bottom face, the spell effect would be above you, and so only affect creatures that occupied more vertical space.
      $endgroup$
      – Someone_Evil
      Apr 1 at 13:33










    • $begingroup$
      Ah, you argue that I (the point of origin) must be outside the cube. I don't agree, but I understand your answer now
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 14:08










    • $begingroup$
      (Edit was for some prose/usage corrections. Nicely reasoned answer. +1 ) :)
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:23










    • $begingroup$
      Could "from" not mean "source?" That is, from the caster instead of originating from a point she can see in 30'? In this sense, couldn't the caster have the cube emanate (say) centered on/from her big toe upward?
      $endgroup$
      – Rykara
      Apr 1 at 18:55















    3












    $begingroup$

    No, and No



    Firstly, thunderwave only specifies that it harms creatures in its area of effect (no other creatures):




    Each creature in a 15-foot cube [...]




    If you were to be in its area, then you would be subject to damage (and presumably the push effect). However and secondly, thunderwave repeatedly used the word from:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you.

    Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you must make a Constitution saving throw.




    (emphasis mine) This indicates that the cube must be pointed away from you, and so you can't put yourself into its area of effect.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$












    • $begingroup$
      If you're at the center, the cube can still originate from you, similar to a spherical explosion, don't you agree? Anyhow, I think you should make an answer with your argument on the questions I've linked, and narrow this answer to my question
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 13:29











    • $begingroup$
      Except as you state in the question you are at its face, so for you (the point of origin) to be at its bottom face, the spell effect would be above you, and so only affect creatures that occupied more vertical space.
      $endgroup$
      – Someone_Evil
      Apr 1 at 13:33










    • $begingroup$
      Ah, you argue that I (the point of origin) must be outside the cube. I don't agree, but I understand your answer now
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 14:08










    • $begingroup$
      (Edit was for some prose/usage corrections. Nicely reasoned answer. +1 ) :)
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:23










    • $begingroup$
      Could "from" not mean "source?" That is, from the caster instead of originating from a point she can see in 30'? In this sense, couldn't the caster have the cube emanate (say) centered on/from her big toe upward?
      $endgroup$
      – Rykara
      Apr 1 at 18:55













    3












    3








    3





    $begingroup$

    No, and No



    Firstly, thunderwave only specifies that it harms creatures in its area of effect (no other creatures):




    Each creature in a 15-foot cube [...]




    If you were to be in its area, then you would be subject to damage (and presumably the push effect). However and secondly, thunderwave repeatedly used the word from:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you.

    Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you must make a Constitution saving throw.




    (emphasis mine) This indicates that the cube must be pointed away from you, and so you can't put yourself into its area of effect.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$



    No, and No



    Firstly, thunderwave only specifies that it harms creatures in its area of effect (no other creatures):




    Each creature in a 15-foot cube [...]




    If you were to be in its area, then you would be subject to damage (and presumably the push effect). However and secondly, thunderwave repeatedly used the word from:




    A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you.

    Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you must make a Constitution saving throw.




    (emphasis mine) This indicates that the cube must be pointed away from you, and so you can't put yourself into its area of effect.







    share|improve this answer














    share|improve this answer



    share|improve this answer








    edited Apr 1 at 15:31

























    answered Apr 1 at 13:21









    Someone_EvilSomeone_Evil

    2,522626




    2,522626











    • $begingroup$
      If you're at the center, the cube can still originate from you, similar to a spherical explosion, don't you agree? Anyhow, I think you should make an answer with your argument on the questions I've linked, and narrow this answer to my question
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 13:29











    • $begingroup$
      Except as you state in the question you are at its face, so for you (the point of origin) to be at its bottom face, the spell effect would be above you, and so only affect creatures that occupied more vertical space.
      $endgroup$
      – Someone_Evil
      Apr 1 at 13:33










    • $begingroup$
      Ah, you argue that I (the point of origin) must be outside the cube. I don't agree, but I understand your answer now
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 14:08










    • $begingroup$
      (Edit was for some prose/usage corrections. Nicely reasoned answer. +1 ) :)
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:23










    • $begingroup$
      Could "from" not mean "source?" That is, from the caster instead of originating from a point she can see in 30'? In this sense, couldn't the caster have the cube emanate (say) centered on/from her big toe upward?
      $endgroup$
      – Rykara
      Apr 1 at 18:55
















    • $begingroup$
      If you're at the center, the cube can still originate from you, similar to a spherical explosion, don't you agree? Anyhow, I think you should make an answer with your argument on the questions I've linked, and narrow this answer to my question
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 13:29











    • $begingroup$
      Except as you state in the question you are at its face, so for you (the point of origin) to be at its bottom face, the spell effect would be above you, and so only affect creatures that occupied more vertical space.
      $endgroup$
      – Someone_Evil
      Apr 1 at 13:33










    • $begingroup$
      Ah, you argue that I (the point of origin) must be outside the cube. I don't agree, but I understand your answer now
      $endgroup$
      – BlueMoon93
      Apr 1 at 14:08










    • $begingroup$
      (Edit was for some prose/usage corrections. Nicely reasoned answer. +1 ) :)
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 15:23










    • $begingroup$
      Could "from" not mean "source?" That is, from the caster instead of originating from a point she can see in 30'? In this sense, couldn't the caster have the cube emanate (say) centered on/from her big toe upward?
      $endgroup$
      – Rykara
      Apr 1 at 18:55















    $begingroup$
    If you're at the center, the cube can still originate from you, similar to a spherical explosion, don't you agree? Anyhow, I think you should make an answer with your argument on the questions I've linked, and narrow this answer to my question
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 1 at 13:29





    $begingroup$
    If you're at the center, the cube can still originate from you, similar to a spherical explosion, don't you agree? Anyhow, I think you should make an answer with your argument on the questions I've linked, and narrow this answer to my question
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 1 at 13:29













    $begingroup$
    Except as you state in the question you are at its face, so for you (the point of origin) to be at its bottom face, the spell effect would be above you, and so only affect creatures that occupied more vertical space.
    $endgroup$
    – Someone_Evil
    Apr 1 at 13:33




    $begingroup$
    Except as you state in the question you are at its face, so for you (the point of origin) to be at its bottom face, the spell effect would be above you, and so only affect creatures that occupied more vertical space.
    $endgroup$
    – Someone_Evil
    Apr 1 at 13:33












    $begingroup$
    Ah, you argue that I (the point of origin) must be outside the cube. I don't agree, but I understand your answer now
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 1 at 14:08




    $begingroup$
    Ah, you argue that I (the point of origin) must be outside the cube. I don't agree, but I understand your answer now
    $endgroup$
    – BlueMoon93
    Apr 1 at 14:08












    $begingroup$
    (Edit was for some prose/usage corrections. Nicely reasoned answer. +1 ) :)
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 15:23




    $begingroup$
    (Edit was for some prose/usage corrections. Nicely reasoned answer. +1 ) :)
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 15:23












    $begingroup$
    Could "from" not mean "source?" That is, from the caster instead of originating from a point she can see in 30'? In this sense, couldn't the caster have the cube emanate (say) centered on/from her big toe upward?
    $endgroup$
    – Rykara
    Apr 1 at 18:55




    $begingroup$
    Could "from" not mean "source?" That is, from the caster instead of originating from a point she can see in 30'? In this sense, couldn't the caster have the cube emanate (say) centered on/from her big toe upward?
    $endgroup$
    – Rykara
    Apr 1 at 18:55











    3












    $begingroup$

    Yes, if you are a Storm Sorcerer at 18th level.




    Wind Soul

    At 18th level, you gain immunity to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    If you are a sixth level Storm Sorcerer, you have resistance to your own damage.




    Heart of the Storm

    At 6th level, you gain Resistance to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    You can maybe do it from the Top Face as a First Level Storm Sorcerer




    Tempestuous Magic

    Starting at 1st level, you can use a Bonus Action on Your Turn to cause whirling gusts of elemental air to briefly surround you, immediately before or after you Cast a Spell of 1st level or higher. Doing so allows you to fly up to 10 feet without provoking Opportunity Attacks. (XGtE)




    This would work better when standing on a bridge or a ledge than on a hard floor.



    But if, as you noted in comments, you are playing a wizard ...



    Yes1 - if you are a Wizard(Evoker) of 2d level or higher.



    The sculpt spells feature allows you to do this if you are a wizard of the evocation school.




    Sculpt Spells

    Beginning at 2nd level, you can create pockets of relative safety within the effects of your evocation spells. When you cast an evocation spell that affects other creatures that you can see, you can choose a number of them equal to 1 + the spell’s level. The chosen creatures automatically succeed on their saving throws against the spell, and they take no damage if they would normally take half damage on a successful save. (Basic Rules, p. 34)




    You can see yourself, so you can include yourself in the protected zone.




    On a failed save, a creature takes 2d8 thunder damage and is pushed 10
    feet away from you.




    As I don't see a way to push yourself away from yourself, the caster would not be subject to the pushing effect in this case.




    1Caveat



    @illustro points out that this interpretation may not fit RAW as strictly as possible, since "other" generally doesn't include one's self. While I think it fits - we can call that a RAF view of this feature - a given DM may take illustro's point on a strict reading of the rules and not allow sculpt spells to apply.



    (FWIW, this did come up in a game where I was DM, and since the Wizard was an evoker, I allowed it since it makes sense to me. I can see the other ruling as well).



    Rulings and Rules ...



    Mike Mearls (one of the devs) is of the opinion that you can save yourself, but I have not found Jeremy Crawford's take on that question - his rulings are more authoritative than Mike's. Sculpt spells is not addressed in the most recent Sage Advice Compendium (version 2.3), nor in the PHB errata.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$








    • 2




      $begingroup$
      The Sculpt Spell ability only enables you to make other creatures save automatically, not yourself unfortunately. Though as a DM and RaF I'd allow it!
      $endgroup$
      – illustro
      Apr 1 at 14:55










    • $begingroup$
      @illustro I'll add your point as a caveat, thanks!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 14:56















    3












    $begingroup$

    Yes, if you are a Storm Sorcerer at 18th level.




    Wind Soul

    At 18th level, you gain immunity to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    If you are a sixth level Storm Sorcerer, you have resistance to your own damage.




    Heart of the Storm

    At 6th level, you gain Resistance to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    You can maybe do it from the Top Face as a First Level Storm Sorcerer




    Tempestuous Magic

    Starting at 1st level, you can use a Bonus Action on Your Turn to cause whirling gusts of elemental air to briefly surround you, immediately before or after you Cast a Spell of 1st level or higher. Doing so allows you to fly up to 10 feet without provoking Opportunity Attacks. (XGtE)




    This would work better when standing on a bridge or a ledge than on a hard floor.



    But if, as you noted in comments, you are playing a wizard ...



    Yes1 - if you are a Wizard(Evoker) of 2d level or higher.



    The sculpt spells feature allows you to do this if you are a wizard of the evocation school.




    Sculpt Spells

    Beginning at 2nd level, you can create pockets of relative safety within the effects of your evocation spells. When you cast an evocation spell that affects other creatures that you can see, you can choose a number of them equal to 1 + the spell’s level. The chosen creatures automatically succeed on their saving throws against the spell, and they take no damage if they would normally take half damage on a successful save. (Basic Rules, p. 34)




    You can see yourself, so you can include yourself in the protected zone.




    On a failed save, a creature takes 2d8 thunder damage and is pushed 10
    feet away from you.




    As I don't see a way to push yourself away from yourself, the caster would not be subject to the pushing effect in this case.




    1Caveat



    @illustro points out that this interpretation may not fit RAW as strictly as possible, since "other" generally doesn't include one's self. While I think it fits - we can call that a RAF view of this feature - a given DM may take illustro's point on a strict reading of the rules and not allow sculpt spells to apply.



    (FWIW, this did come up in a game where I was DM, and since the Wizard was an evoker, I allowed it since it makes sense to me. I can see the other ruling as well).



    Rulings and Rules ...



    Mike Mearls (one of the devs) is of the opinion that you can save yourself, but I have not found Jeremy Crawford's take on that question - his rulings are more authoritative than Mike's. Sculpt spells is not addressed in the most recent Sage Advice Compendium (version 2.3), nor in the PHB errata.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$








    • 2




      $begingroup$
      The Sculpt Spell ability only enables you to make other creatures save automatically, not yourself unfortunately. Though as a DM and RaF I'd allow it!
      $endgroup$
      – illustro
      Apr 1 at 14:55










    • $begingroup$
      @illustro I'll add your point as a caveat, thanks!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 14:56













    3












    3








    3





    $begingroup$

    Yes, if you are a Storm Sorcerer at 18th level.




    Wind Soul

    At 18th level, you gain immunity to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    If you are a sixth level Storm Sorcerer, you have resistance to your own damage.




    Heart of the Storm

    At 6th level, you gain Resistance to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    You can maybe do it from the Top Face as a First Level Storm Sorcerer




    Tempestuous Magic

    Starting at 1st level, you can use a Bonus Action on Your Turn to cause whirling gusts of elemental air to briefly surround you, immediately before or after you Cast a Spell of 1st level or higher. Doing so allows you to fly up to 10 feet without provoking Opportunity Attacks. (XGtE)




    This would work better when standing on a bridge or a ledge than on a hard floor.



    But if, as you noted in comments, you are playing a wizard ...



    Yes1 - if you are a Wizard(Evoker) of 2d level or higher.



    The sculpt spells feature allows you to do this if you are a wizard of the evocation school.




    Sculpt Spells

    Beginning at 2nd level, you can create pockets of relative safety within the effects of your evocation spells. When you cast an evocation spell that affects other creatures that you can see, you can choose a number of them equal to 1 + the spell’s level. The chosen creatures automatically succeed on their saving throws against the spell, and they take no damage if they would normally take half damage on a successful save. (Basic Rules, p. 34)




    You can see yourself, so you can include yourself in the protected zone.




    On a failed save, a creature takes 2d8 thunder damage and is pushed 10
    feet away from you.




    As I don't see a way to push yourself away from yourself, the caster would not be subject to the pushing effect in this case.




    1Caveat



    @illustro points out that this interpretation may not fit RAW as strictly as possible, since "other" generally doesn't include one's self. While I think it fits - we can call that a RAF view of this feature - a given DM may take illustro's point on a strict reading of the rules and not allow sculpt spells to apply.



    (FWIW, this did come up in a game where I was DM, and since the Wizard was an evoker, I allowed it since it makes sense to me. I can see the other ruling as well).



    Rulings and Rules ...



    Mike Mearls (one of the devs) is of the opinion that you can save yourself, but I have not found Jeremy Crawford's take on that question - his rulings are more authoritative than Mike's. Sculpt spells is not addressed in the most recent Sage Advice Compendium (version 2.3), nor in the PHB errata.






    share|improve this answer











    $endgroup$



    Yes, if you are a Storm Sorcerer at 18th level.




    Wind Soul

    At 18th level, you gain immunity to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    If you are a sixth level Storm Sorcerer, you have resistance to your own damage.




    Heart of the Storm

    At 6th level, you gain Resistance to lightning and thunder damage. (XGtE)




    You can maybe do it from the Top Face as a First Level Storm Sorcerer




    Tempestuous Magic

    Starting at 1st level, you can use a Bonus Action on Your Turn to cause whirling gusts of elemental air to briefly surround you, immediately before or after you Cast a Spell of 1st level or higher. Doing so allows you to fly up to 10 feet without provoking Opportunity Attacks. (XGtE)




    This would work better when standing on a bridge or a ledge than on a hard floor.



    But if, as you noted in comments, you are playing a wizard ...



    Yes1 - if you are a Wizard(Evoker) of 2d level or higher.



    The sculpt spells feature allows you to do this if you are a wizard of the evocation school.




    Sculpt Spells

    Beginning at 2nd level, you can create pockets of relative safety within the effects of your evocation spells. When you cast an evocation spell that affects other creatures that you can see, you can choose a number of them equal to 1 + the spell’s level. The chosen creatures automatically succeed on their saving throws against the spell, and they take no damage if they would normally take half damage on a successful save. (Basic Rules, p. 34)




    You can see yourself, so you can include yourself in the protected zone.




    On a failed save, a creature takes 2d8 thunder damage and is pushed 10
    feet away from you.




    As I don't see a way to push yourself away from yourself, the caster would not be subject to the pushing effect in this case.




    1Caveat



    @illustro points out that this interpretation may not fit RAW as strictly as possible, since "other" generally doesn't include one's self. While I think it fits - we can call that a RAF view of this feature - a given DM may take illustro's point on a strict reading of the rules and not allow sculpt spells to apply.



    (FWIW, this did come up in a game where I was DM, and since the Wizard was an evoker, I allowed it since it makes sense to me. I can see the other ruling as well).



    Rulings and Rules ...



    Mike Mearls (one of the devs) is of the opinion that you can save yourself, but I have not found Jeremy Crawford's take on that question - his rulings are more authoritative than Mike's. Sculpt spells is not addressed in the most recent Sage Advice Compendium (version 2.3), nor in the PHB errata.







    share|improve this answer














    share|improve this answer



    share|improve this answer








    edited Apr 1 at 15:41

























    answered Apr 1 at 14:53









    KorvinStarmastKorvinStarmast

    84k20261456




    84k20261456







    • 2




      $begingroup$
      The Sculpt Spell ability only enables you to make other creatures save automatically, not yourself unfortunately. Though as a DM and RaF I'd allow it!
      $endgroup$
      – illustro
      Apr 1 at 14:55










    • $begingroup$
      @illustro I'll add your point as a caveat, thanks!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 14:56












    • 2




      $begingroup$
      The Sculpt Spell ability only enables you to make other creatures save automatically, not yourself unfortunately. Though as a DM and RaF I'd allow it!
      $endgroup$
      – illustro
      Apr 1 at 14:55










    • $begingroup$
      @illustro I'll add your point as a caveat, thanks!
      $endgroup$
      – KorvinStarmast
      Apr 1 at 14:56







    2




    2




    $begingroup$
    The Sculpt Spell ability only enables you to make other creatures save automatically, not yourself unfortunately. Though as a DM and RaF I'd allow it!
    $endgroup$
    – illustro
    Apr 1 at 14:55




    $begingroup$
    The Sculpt Spell ability only enables you to make other creatures save automatically, not yourself unfortunately. Though as a DM and RaF I'd allow it!
    $endgroup$
    – illustro
    Apr 1 at 14:55












    $begingroup$
    @illustro I'll add your point as a caveat, thanks!
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 14:56




    $begingroup$
    @illustro I'll add your point as a caveat, thanks!
    $endgroup$
    – KorvinStarmast
    Apr 1 at 14:56











    0












    $begingroup$

    You can definitely include yourself



    It is right in your cited explanation of cube range:




    A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




    That is akin to putting yourself in the range of the spell. Even if this were not the case, you could still have the origin outside the range, and have yourself in it.



    You might be able to avoid damage, if and only if you are an Evocation Wizard



    Evocation wizards can sculpt spells to avoid hitting allies. However, whether you can do this is subject to interpretation:




    Sculpt Spells

    ... that affects other creatures you can see ...




    (emphasis mine)



    It is up to you and your DM whether other refers to non-target creatures or not yourself, but I believe it is the former.






    share|improve this answer









    $endgroup$

















      0












      $begingroup$

      You can definitely include yourself



      It is right in your cited explanation of cube range:




      A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




      That is akin to putting yourself in the range of the spell. Even if this were not the case, you could still have the origin outside the range, and have yourself in it.



      You might be able to avoid damage, if and only if you are an Evocation Wizard



      Evocation wizards can sculpt spells to avoid hitting allies. However, whether you can do this is subject to interpretation:




      Sculpt Spells

      ... that affects other creatures you can see ...




      (emphasis mine)



      It is up to you and your DM whether other refers to non-target creatures or not yourself, but I believe it is the former.






      share|improve this answer









      $endgroup$















        0












        0








        0





        $begingroup$

        You can definitely include yourself



        It is right in your cited explanation of cube range:




        A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




        That is akin to putting yourself in the range of the spell. Even if this were not the case, you could still have the origin outside the range, and have yourself in it.



        You might be able to avoid damage, if and only if you are an Evocation Wizard



        Evocation wizards can sculpt spells to avoid hitting allies. However, whether you can do this is subject to interpretation:




        Sculpt Spells

        ... that affects other creatures you can see ...




        (emphasis mine)



        It is up to you and your DM whether other refers to non-target creatures or not yourself, but I believe it is the former.






        share|improve this answer









        $endgroup$



        You can definitely include yourself



        It is right in your cited explanation of cube range:




        A cube's point of origin is not included in the cube's area of effect, unless you decide otherwise.




        That is akin to putting yourself in the range of the spell. Even if this were not the case, you could still have the origin outside the range, and have yourself in it.



        You might be able to avoid damage, if and only if you are an Evocation Wizard



        Evocation wizards can sculpt spells to avoid hitting allies. However, whether you can do this is subject to interpretation:




        Sculpt Spells

        ... that affects other creatures you can see ...




        (emphasis mine)



        It is up to you and your DM whether other refers to non-target creatures or not yourself, but I believe it is the former.







        share|improve this answer












        share|improve this answer



        share|improve this answer










        answered Apr 1 at 14:56









        WeasemunkWeasemunk

        575215




        575215



























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