Originally Posted by SeanJP
Originally Posted by Boz
Counterspell says "need to use same level spell slot, or else pass a check."
What check is that supposed to be? Every single time I tried to use a lower-level slot, it just flat out failed. Is there a mechanic that's not triggering, or have I just had some epic bad luck?

You're misunderstanding the text, which is understandable.

You cannot cast Counterspell using a 1st or 2nd level spell slot, because it's a 3rd level spell. What it's talking about is the spell you are *countering.* In other words, if a hostile creature is casting a spell that is first, second, or third level - Counterspell will work.

BUT, if an enemy casts a 4th level spell, you'll have to pass a skill check after casting Counterspell - UNLESS you cast it using a 4th level slot or higher. Basically you need to meet or beat the spell slot level used by the enemy, otherwise it's a skill check to see if it works.
You entirely and completely failed to understand the problem.
It's not about 1st or 2nd level spell slots. You can't even cast Counterspell at those levels. That's not a "fail", there is no button to do that. Because it is a 3rd level spell. How would you even assume that this is what I was talking about?
But if you use a 3rd level vs a 4th level spell, it will fail. No check is rolled, it is just "Tav casts Failed Counterspell." 20+ times now.

I don't want to think about why my eye is itching.