Wizard Subclass Controller Advanced

Illusionist Wizard Guide

The School of Illusion focuses on magic that deceives the senses and tricks the mind. Illusionists create phantom images, confuse enemies, and weave false realities. Their magic is subtle but can be devastatingly effective.

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Best Races for Illusionist Wizard

All 10 races ranked by synergy with the Illusionist. Click any to see the full build.

Illusionist Features

Illusion Savant

Level 3

The gold and time you spend to copy illusion spells into your spellbook is halved.

Improved Illusions

Level 3

You learn the Minor Illusion cantrip if you don't already know it. When you cast Minor Illusion, you can create both a sound and an image with a single casting. Additionally, your illusion spells are harder to see through.

Phantasmal Creatures

Level 6

When you cast an illusion spell that creates a creature or object, you can imbue it with a semblance of life. The illusion can make sounds, move, and even interact with the environment in basic ways, making it much harder for creatures to identify it as an illusion.

Illusory Self

Level 10

As a reaction when a creature makes an attack roll against you, you can create an illusory duplicate of yourself. The attack automatically misses you, then the illusion dissipates. Once you use this feature, you can't use it again until you finish a short or long rest.

Illusory Reality

Level 14

When you cast an illusion spell of 1st level or higher, you can choose one inanimate, nonmagical object that is part of the illusion and make that object real. The object can't deal damage or directly harm anyone. The object remains real for 1 minute, regardless of the illusion's duration. If the illusion ends before 1 minute, the object persists for the remainder.

Is Illusionist Right for You?

Pick the Illusionist if you want a Wizard focused on controlling the battlefield and locking down enemies. Compare it with the other Wizard subclasses to make sure it fits your party, then build the Elf version for the strongest start.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best race for a Illusionist Wizard?
Elf rates highest (8/10) for the Illusionist Wizard. Extra saving throw advantages protect against debilitating spells and effects. Gnome (8/10) and Dragonborn (7/10) are also strong picks.
What does the Illusionist specialize in?
The Illusionist fills the Controller role — controlling the battlefield and locking down enemies. Its features unlock at levels 3, 6, 10, 14.

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