Is True Strike Ever Worth Casting in 5e Dungeons Dragons?

Are you facing a tough enemy in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition with a high AC (Armor Class), and are you wondering if it's worth taking the time to cast True Strike? Let's delve into the pros and cons of this cantrip, and when it makes sense to use it.

Pros of True Strike

Advantage on Attack Rolls: Casting True Strike gives you a chance to gain advantage on your next attack roll against a target on your turn. Advantage significantly increases your chances of hitting, especially against targets with high AC. This can be particularly useful when your target has a high AC and you're struggling to hit them with your normal attack rolls.

Useful for Critical Hits: If you roll a natural 20 while attacking with advantage, you score a critical hit. Critical hits deal substantial damage, sometimes up to 19-20 times more damage than a regular hit. This can be a game-changer in battles, especially when you're facing a tough enemy.

Situational Use: True Strike can be valuable in specific scenarios. For instance, if you need to ensure that a critical hit lands to trigger a class feature or ability, or if you're fighting a tough enemy where a single hit could be the difference between life and death, the cantrip can be a lifesaver.

Cons of True Strike

Action Economy: The main downside of True Strike is that it requires you to use your action to cast it. This means you won't be able to attack on that turn. Considering that you could be using that action to make an attack, this can be a significant drawback. If your target suddenly moves out of range, you've wasted your action.

Limited Duration: The advantage provided by True Strike is only valid for the next attack roll you make. If the target moves out of range or if you don't have a clear shot, the advantage is wasted.

Better Options

There are many other spells or cantrips that can deal damage or provide more utility without sacrificing your action. For example, Magic Missile, Invisibility, or even Charm Person can be more impactful. These options not only provide immediate benefits but also deal damage directly, making them more consistent choices.

If you're looking for spells or abilities that allow you to deal damage or provide immediate benefits without sacrificing your action, consider Ray of Frost, Scorching Ray, or Fireball. These spells can be more reliable and effective in the heat of battle.

When It Might Be Worth Casting

High AC Targets: If you're facing a particularly high AC enemy, and your normal attack roll is likely to miss, True Strike can be a valuable tool. Even just a 2 to your roll can make the difference between a miss and a hit. This can be crucial in high-level combat.

Delayed Attacks: If you're expecting to need to wait a turn to attack, perhaps because the target is about to be incapacitated or you're planning to set up for a stronger attack next round, True Strike can provide the advantage you need to land that critical hit when the moment comes.

Tactical Play: If you or your party have a strategy that relies on achieving a critical hit or ensuring a crucial attack lands, True Strike can be a game-changer. For example, if your party needs a specific character to trigger a class feature, critical hits can be the key to success.

Conclusion

While True Strike can be useful in certain niche situations, it is generally not considered the best use of an action due to the opportunity cost of not attacking. Most players find that spells or abilities that allow them to deal damage or provide immediate benefits without sacrificing their action are more consistent and reliable.

In essence, True Strike is a tool to have in your arsenal, but it should be reserved for those specific situations where it can make the most impact. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, and you'll find that True Strike can be a powerful ally in the right circumstances.