Can you be prone on a mount?

Can You Be Prone on a Mount? A Guide to Riding Safely in D&D

Mounting a creature can be an exhilarating experience in Dungeons & Dragons, providing increased mobility and combat versatility. However, being knocked off or choosing to dismount can be a risky move. But, can you actually be prone on a mount? In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of mounting creatures in D&D, addressing common questions and concerns about falling off, getting dismounted, and, indeed, being prone on a mount.

What Constitutes a Mount?

Before we dive into the world of mounts, it’s essential to understand what qualifies as a mount in the first place. In the Player’s Handbook (p. 298), a mount is defined as a creature that is large enough to carry a humanoid, has a speed, and can be ridden voluntarily. This can include fantastical creatures like griffins, pegasi, or even a trusty warhorse.

Normally You Can’t Go Prone While Mounted

Unfortunately, the standard rule states that you cannot go prone while mounted. According to the Player’s Handbook (p. 196), "You can’t use a bonus action to go prone while mounted." This rule exists to prevent characters from abusing the mount’s size and momentum to perform ridiculous acrobatics.

Special Exceptions: DC 10 Dexterity Save

However, there are instances where a character might be able to go prone while mounted. If you’re knocked prone while mounted, you can attempt a DC 10 Dexterity saving throw. If you succeed, you can try to hang onto the mount and continue riding. If you fail, you’ll be dismounted and fall prone to the ground.

Rider Dismounting on Falling

In cases where a mount falls, riders are allowed to dismount and attempt to land on their feet. According to the Player’s Handbook (p. 196), "You can use your reaction to dismount a creature as it falls." This allows riders to control their descent and avoid the dangers of landing prone or injured.

What about Falling Off?

Sometimes, even with the best of intentions, a character might accidentally fall off a mount. In this situation, the mount is assumed to have been knocked off its balance, and both the mount and rider need to make separate saves.

Table: Mount-Related Saves

When Can You be Prone on a Mount?

To summarize, the base rules don’t allow riders to go prone while mounted, but there are some special exceptions:

• During combat, if the rider is knocked prone while mounted, they can attempt a DC 10 Dexterity save to stay on the mount.
• If the rider deliberately dismounts to land on their feet.

In all other cases, a character cannot go prone while mounted. Remember that, even if you fall off, you can try to dismount and control your descent to avoid damage.

Conclusion

While it might be tempting to go prone on a mount for added mobility or creativity, the base rules frown upon this practice. Instead, focus on your character’s riding skills and make use of the available mechanics to navigate the perils of mounted combat. Whether you’re riding into battle or exploring the world, remember to stay aware of your surroundings and hold onto your mount for dear life!

Additional Resources

• Player’s Handbook: Page 196 and 298
• The Lost Mines of Phandelver: A comprehensive adventure module for level 1 characters, featuring multiple mount-based encounters.
• Tomb of Annihilation: A challenging campaign book with several mount-riding encounters and mechanics.
• Riding School of Hard Knocks: A fan-made resource featuring guidelines for creating your own mounts and riding mechanics.
• Facebook Community Group: "Dungeons & Dragons Riders": A community-driven space to share riding tips, showcase mount creations, and get help with mount-related mechanics.

Remember to always respect your fellow players and have fun!