What are the extra attack rules in 5e?

What are the Extra Attack Rules in 5e?

In Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, the Extra Attack feature allows characters to attack multiple times in a single turn. This feature is typically associated with martial classes, such as fighters and rangers, but can also be applied to other classes that gain it through various means. In this article, we will delve into the extra attack rules in 5e, exploring what they entail, how they work, and some important points to keep in mind.

What is the Extra Attack Feature?

The Extra Attack feature is a combat ability that allows a character to make an additional attack in a single turn. This feature is typically gained at 5th level, and the number of attacks increases as the character gains levels. For example, a fighter gains the ability to make an extra attack at 5th level, and an additional attack at 11th and 20th levels.

How Does Extra Attack Work?

When a character uses the Extra Attack feature, they can make an additional attack in addition to their normal attack. This means that if a character has a normal attack and an extra attack, they can make two attacks in a single turn. The extra attack can be used with any weapon or attack ability that the character has access to.

Important Points to Keep in Mind

• Extra Attack is a Bonus Attack: The Extra Attack feature is a bonus attack, which means that it is not included in the character’s normal attack count. This means that if a character has a normal attack and an extra attack, they can still make other attacks in the same turn, such as a bonus action attack.
• Extra Attack Does Not Give Advantage: The Extra Attack feature does not give advantage to the character’s attacks. Advantage is a separate benefit that can be gained through various means, such as using a high ground or having a favorable terrain.
• Extra Attack Can be Used with Any Weapon: The Extra Attack feature can be used with any weapon or attack ability that the character has access to. This means that characters can use their extra attack with a sword, a bow, or even a spell.

How Does Extra Attack Interact with Other Abilities?

The Extra Attack feature interacts with other abilities in various ways. For example:

• Spellcasting: The Extra Attack feature does not give a character the ability to cast spells multiple times in a single turn. Characters can still cast spells in a single turn, but they will not gain the ability to cast additional spells.
• Multiattack: The Extra Attack feature does not give a character the ability to make multiple attacks with a single attack action. Characters can still make multiple attacks with a single attack action, but the Extra Attack feature is separate from this ability.
• Reactions: The Extra Attack feature does not give a character the ability to use reactions multiple times in a single turn. Characters can still use reactions in a single turn, but they will not gain the ability to use additional reactions.

Conclusion

The Extra Attack feature in 5e is a powerful ability that allows characters to make additional attacks in a single turn. This feature is typically gained by martial classes, but can also be applied to other classes that gain it through various means. Understanding how the Extra Attack feature works and interacts with other abilities is important for any player looking to make the most of this ability.

Table: Extra Attack Features by Level

Table: Classes that Gain Extra Attack

Additional Resources

For more information on the Extra Attack feature and other 5e rules, please refer to the official Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition Player’s Handbook and the official 5e rules website.