Can you be knocked prone while flying 5e?

Can You Be Knocked Prone While Flying 5e?

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, flying creatures can be a thrilling addition to any campaign. However, when it comes to the question of whether a flying creature can be knocked prone, the answer is not as simple as it seems. In this article, we will delve into the rules and mechanics surrounding knocking a flying creature prone, and explore the possibilities and limitations of this situation.

What Happens When a Flying Creature is Knocked Prone?

According to the Player’s Handbook, if a flying creature is knocked prone, it falls straight out of the sky (PHB, p. 191). This means that the creature will no longer be able to fly and will instead plummet towards the ground. The distance and impact of the fall will depend on the height from which the creature was knocked prone and its size and composition.

Can You Be Knocked Prone While Flying?

So, can a flying creature be knocked prone in the first place? The answer is yes. Grappling and Shoving are two abilities that can be used to knock a creature prone, regardless of whether it is flying or not (PHB, p. 195). However, there are some limitations to consider.

Size Matters

When attempting to knock a flying creature prone, the size of the creature becomes a crucial factor. According to the Combat section of the Player’s Handbook, the Strength check required to shove a creature prone increases as the creature’s size increases (PHB, p. 195). For example, a Medium-sized creature requires a Strength check of 25 or higher to shove prone, while a Large-sized creature requires a Strength check of 30 or higher. Huge and Gargantuan creatures require even higher Strength checks to be shoved prone.

Levitation and Hovering

Flying creatures that are able to levitate or hover, such as those with the Fly spell or the Winged feature, are not affected by the same rules as flying creatures that are in mid-air. These creatures can be knocked prone and will fall, but they will not necessarily fall out of the sky.

Consequences of Being Knocked Prone

When a flying creature is knocked prone, it will fall and land on the ground. The distance and impact of the fall will depend on the height from which the creature was knocked prone and its size and composition. In addition to the physical consequences of the fall, being knocked prone can also have psychological and emotional impacts on the creature. A flying creature that is knocked prone may feel disoriented, frightened, or even traumatized by the experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while flying creatures can be knocked prone, the rules and mechanics surrounding this situation are complex and dependent on a variety of factors, including the size of the creature, the height from which it is knocked prone, and its ability to levitate or hover. By understanding these rules and mechanics, DMs and players can create more realistic and immersive flight combat scenarios in their campaigns.

Table: Shoving Prone Creatures by Size

Table: Falling Distance by Height

Additional Resources

• Player’s Handbook, p. 191-195
• Dungeon Master’s Guide, p. 291-294
• Monster Manual, p. 301-304