Is Sneak Attack Doubled?
Sneak Attack is a crucial feature for rogues, allowing them to deal increased damage when striking from the shadows. However, with the added bonus of doubling damage dice, the rules can become a bit convoluted. In this article, we’ll break down the details of sneak attack and critical hits, and explore the answer to the question: Is sneak attack doubled?
Direct Answer: No, Sneak Attack is Not Doubled
According to the official rules, a rogue’s Sneak Attack feature is only doubled if the attack also meets the criteria for critical hits. This means that the doubled damage only applies to bonus damage dice that do not allow saves.
The Rules on Sneak Attack
The Player’s Handbook states that when a rogue deals sneak attack damage, "the sneak attack deals an extra 1d6 of damage". However, when a rogue crits with a sneak attack, "you roll the sneak attack dice twice and add the results together". This rule applies to both the base damage and bonus damage from features like Divine Smite.
Sneak Attack and Critical Hits: What’s the Connection?
A critical hit is a specific situation where the attack rolls exceed the target’s Armor Class (AC). When a critical hit is scored, the attack inflicts bonus damage, known as "bonus damage dice". These dice are separate from the base damage dice and are usually indicated in the monster stat block.
Doubling Damage Dice: What Does it Mean?
Doubling damage dice means that when an attack meets the criteria for a critical hit, the bonus damage dice are rolled twice and added together. This increases the total damage dealt, but only for the bonus damage dice that do not allow saves. Base damage dice, on the other hand, are not doubled.
Examples and Exceptions
• Sneak Attack and Critical Hits: If a rogue deals sneak attack damage and crits with the attack, the bonus damage dice (1d6) are rolled twice and added together.
• Sneak Attack and Non-Critical Hits: If a rogue deals sneak attack damage but doesn’t crit, the base damage dice are rolled normally, and no bonus damage dice are doubled.
• Divine Smite and Critical Hits: If a paladin uses Divine Smite and crits with the attack, the bonus damage dice (2d8) are rolled twice and added together, but the base damage dice are not doubled.
Table: Sneak Attack and Critical Hits
| Sneak Attack + Critical Hit | Sneak Attack + Non-Critical Hit | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Damage | Rolled normally | Rolled normally |
| Bonus Damage | Rolled twice, added together | Not applicable |
| Total Damage | Increased bonus damage | Base damage only |
Conclusion
In summary, sneak attack is not doubled in and of itself. However, when a rogue crits with an attack that involves sneak attack damage, the bonus damage dice are rolled twice and added together, increasing the total damage dealt. Remember to distinguish between base damage dice and bonus damage dice, as the rules vary depending on the situation.
By understanding the intricacies of sneak attack and critical hits, you’ll be better equipped to optimize your rogue’s damage output and dominate the battlefield. Happy adventuring!