Wisdom vs. Intelligence Saves: Which Protects You More

Of the six saving throws, Wisdom and Intelligence are mental ones. Both matter.

Wisdom Saves

Common Triggers

• Charm spells (Charm Person, Dominate Person).
• Fear spells (Fear, Cause Fear, Phantasmal Killer).
• Hold Person, Hold Monster.
• Suggestion.
• Enthrall.
• Banishment (non-Wis in some rulesets).
• Many enchantment and illusion spells.

Why Wisdom Matters More

Wisdom saves are significantly more common than Intelligence saves. Most mind-affecting magic uses Wisdom.

Intelligence Saves

Common Triggers

• Feeblemind (devastating).
• Phantasmal Force.
• Some psychic attacks.
• Certain monster features.

Why Intelligence Matters Less

Fewer spells/abilities use Intelligence saves. Rarer.

Proficiency by Class

• Wisdom save proficiency: Cleric, Druid, Monk, Paladin, Ranger, Warlock.
• Intelligence save proficiency: Druid, Rogue, Wizard, Blood Hunter.

Boosting Wisdom Saves

• Higher Wisdom stat.
• Resilient (Wisdom) feat.
• Aura of Protection (Paladin level 6+).
• Brave (Halfling).
• Fey Ancestry (Elf).

Boosting Intelligence Saves

• Higher Intelligence stat.
• Resilient (Intelligence) feat.
• Gnome Cunning (advantage vs. magic).

Priority Recommendation

Wisdom first. It's called more often.

Intelligence saves via Gnome Cunning or item if available.

In The Endlessness

Our AI Dungeon Master handles save calculations. Saves come up often in combat and story.

For related reads, our saving throws guide, best feats guide, and gnome guide cover more.

Final Takeaway

Wisdom > Intelligence for save priority. Boost Wisdom first.

Start a character at The Endlessness aware of save priorities.