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Hold Person 5e: A Comprehensive Guide to the Essential Restraint Spell

Introduction

Hold Person is a versatile and effective spell in the Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, providing a powerful means of restraining enemy spellcasters and other key targets. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the spell, offering strategies, tips, and insights to maximize its potential.

Spell Details

Spell Name: Hold Person
Level: 2
School: Enchantment
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 60 feet
Components: Verbal, Somatic
Duration: Up to 1 minute (Concentration)

Effects

Paralyzes Humanoids: Targets the spell are paralyzed if they fail a Wisdom saving throw.
Immobility: Paralyzed creatures are unable to speak, move, or perform actions.
Maintaining Concentration: The caster must maintain concentration for the spell's duration to keep the target paralyzed.

Strategies

1. Target Priority:

hold person 5e

Prioritize targeting vulnerable spellcasters, especially those who rely on somatic components.
Consider using it to immobilize secondary targets, allowing allies to focus on more dangerous enemies.

2. Positioning and Range:

Ensure clear line of sight to your target within 60 feet.
Position yourself strategically to avoid breaking concentration from enemy attacks.

3. Co-ordination with Allies:

Combine Hold Person with other control spells or abilities to maximize the impact of the restraint.
Coordinate with allies to move out of range of the target's allies or allies that would attempt to break your Concentration.

4. Concentration Management:

**Hold Person 5e: A Comprehensive Guide to the Essential Restraint Spell**

Cast Counterspell or use Charisma-boosting items to increase your concentration checks.
Position yourself in cover or behind allies to minimize the risk of being targeted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overestimating Duration:

Hold Person only lasts for up to 1 minute with concentration. Don't rely on it as a long-term solution.

2. Using against Non-Humanoids:

Introduction

The spell only affects humanoids. Targeting creatures of other races or types will have no effect.

3. Breaking Concentration:

Hold Person

Avoid moving, casting spells, or taking damage, as these actions can break your concentration.

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Preparation:

Identify potential targets and coordinate with allies.
Position yourself strategically and prepare for the casting of the spell.

2. Casting:

In a clear voice, utter the verbal components and perform the somatic gestures.
Target your desired enemy.

3. Target Effect:

The target makes a Wisdom saving throw. If it fails, it becomes paralyzed.

4. Concentration:

Maintain concentration for the duration of the spell. This requires a constant focus and avoidance of concentration-breaking actions.

Why Hold Person Matters

1. Enemy Control:

Immobilizing an enemy can give your allies a significant advantage in combat.
It prevents spellcasters from casting spells or healers from using healing abilities.

2. Interrogation and Negotiation:

Paralyzed targets are unable to speak or move, making them ideal for interrogation or negotiation.
The spell can provide valuable information or leverage in diplomatic situations.

3. Escape and Survival:

Casting Hold Person on an enemy can create an opportunity to escape or regroup in dangerous situations.
It can also buy time for allies to recover from injuries or prepare for further combat.

Benefits

1. Versatility:

The spell can be used in various situations, from capturing enemies to providing cover for allies.

2. Low Resource Cost:

As a 2nd-level spell, Hold Person offers a high impact with a relatively low resource investment.

3. Long-Range:

The 60-foot range allows for flexibility in targeting enemies without exposing yourself to danger.

Table 1: Effectiveness of Hold Person Against Different Types of Enemies

Enemy Type	Effectiveness	Reason
Spellcasters	High	Prevents them from casting spells.
Healers	High	Incapacitates them, limiting healing capabilities.
Melee Fighters	Medium	Restricts movement, but they can still attack if adjacent.
Archers	Low	They can still fire arrows from a distance.
Monsters	Varies	Depends on the creature's Wisdom score and resistances.

Table 2: Potential Allies for Hold Person

Ally	Synergies	Explanation
Rogues	Sneak Attack	Paralyzed targets have disadvantage on Dexterity saving throws, increasing the chances of landing critical hits.
Clerics	Bless	Increases the Wisdom saving throw DC for enemies, making Hold Person more likely to succeed.
Wizards	Counterspell	Protects the caster of Hold Person from enemy Counterspells.

Table 3: Common Mistakes to Avoid with Hold Person

Mistake	Consequences	Solution
Targeting Non-Humanoids	No effect on the target.	Ensure you are targeting a humanoid creature.
Breaking Concentration	The spell ends prematurely.	Avoid moving, casting spells, or taking damage.
Overestimating Duration	The spell only lasts for up to 1 minute.	Use it as a temporary solution rather than a long-term strategy.

Conclusion

Hold Person is a powerful and versatile spell that can significantly impact the course of combat and other situations. By understanding its mechanics, strategies, and limitations, players can maximize its effectiveness and harness its potential to control and manipulate enemies. As with any spell, careful planning, coordination with allies, and avoidance of common pitfalls are crucial for successful utilization.