What is the bard's "fireball"?

[jgsugden]

But hypnotic pattern isn't a bard only spell...

(As an aside, how does it compare to fear?)

Asked and answered.

There are certain third level spells that are disproportionately strong. However, they are not all class unique. Fireball, afterall is a (Light) Cleric spell. The Bard's best third level combat spell, IMO, is Hypnotic Pattern, which it shares with other classes.

 

[Ashrym]

Fear does have one advantage in a situation where there aren't other foes around to be warned: it moves the subject away from you. That means that even after the spell is over, it will take a while for the subject to get back into the fight.

Fear can provoke opportunity attacks and causes the subjects to drop what they are holding. It's like a mass disarm ability and can be quite useful, situationally.

I still go hypnotic pattern as more useful more often.

 

[Volund]

Hard to argue with Hypnotic Pattern, but I'll offer up Dissonant Whispers as an alternative. It's exclusive to the Bard spell list (GOOlocks can get it, too), and pretty effective against a single target. Inflict psychic damage and create an opportunity attack for an ally. Pairs very nicely with an ally that has warcaster/booming blade: Target fails save, take 3d8 psychic damage, uses reaction to move, gets hit (hopefully) with BB, keeps moving, and takes the thunder damage.

 

[cbwjm]

IDK about 'too good for it's level,' but if my players have been any indication, Vicious Mockery is the iconic bard spell, even if it is a cantrip.

This is what I think of when I think of an iconic bard spell.

 

[Ashrym]

This is what I think of when I think of an iconic bard spell.

I think of heroism.