In Baldur's Gate 3, Darkness is a level 2 Evocation spell. This spell can be utilized to damage enemies, apply status effects, buff characters, or engage with the surroundings.

Classes that can use Darkness: Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard, Arcane Trickster, Eldritch Knight, Oathbreaker, Swamp, Asmodeus Tiefling, Drow, Drow Half-Elf

When cast, this spell creates a sphere of magical darkness that spreads from a chosen point within range. This darkness works even for creatures with darkvision, and non-magical light cannot illuminate it.

If cast on an object, the darkness spreads out and moves with the object. The spell can also dispel areas of light created by spells of 2nd level or lower.

Spell	Darkness
Level	Lvl 2 spell
School	Evocation School
Range	18m
Duration	10 turns
Radius	5m
Requires Concentration	Yes
Saving Throw	None

Darkness Effects

1. Visibility: Darkness reduces the line of sight for characters. When a character is in a dark area, their vision is limited. This can make navigation challenging and can hide threats or treasures from view.
2. Combat: Darkness can be both an advantage and a disadvantage in combat. Enemies hidden in the dark are harder to target, but the same applies to the player's characters. Spells and abilities that produce light or illuminate areas can counteract the effects of darkness in combat.
3. Ranged Attack: Ranged attacks are significantly reduced within the darkness, and creatures cannot make attacks into or out of it. This limitation means that Warlocks, even those with the "Devil's Sight" ability, are restricted to melee attacks within the darkness.
4. Character Interactions: Some characters in the game have abilities or traits that allow them to see in the dark, like those with Darkvision. This can influence how players approach certain situations or interact with specific characters.

How to Take Advantage of Darkness

While darkness can pose challenges, players can also use it to their advantage:

• Stealth: Darkness provides an excellent cover for stealthy approaches. Characters can hide in the shadows to avoid detection, making it easier to ambush enemies or bypass them entirely.
• Tactical Combat: Players can use darkness to set up tactical advantages. For instance, luring enemies into a dark area where a character with Darkvision waits can turn the tide of battle.
• Environmental Interactions: Throughout the game, there are environmental elements that players can interact with to create or dispel darkness. Extinguishing torches or lighting them can change the dynamics of an area.

How to Counter Darkness

To navigate and combat the challenges of darkness, players have several tools at their disposal:

• Light Sources: Torches, lanterns, and light-producing spells can illuminate dark areas, making navigation easier and revealing hidden entities.
• Darkvision: Characters with the Darkvision trait, like Drow or Elves, can see in the dark. This ability can be invaluable in dark environments.
• Spells and Abilities: Some spells and abilities specifically counteract darkness or its effects. For instance, the 'Light' spell can be cast on an object to make it shine like a torch.