What are the rules for Sneak Attack 5e?
In Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, Sneak Attack is a powerful ability that allows rogues to deal extra damage to their enemies. However, understanding the rules surrounding Sneak Attack can be complex and nuanced. In this article, we’ll break down the key rules and guidelines for using Sneak Attack in 5e.
Sneak Attack Basics
To use Sneak Attack, a rogue must be within 5 feet of their target and the target must not be incapacitated. The rogue must also not have disadvantage on their attack roll. If these conditions are met, the rogue can add their Sneak Attack damage to their attack roll.
Eligible Attacks
Not all attacks are eligible for Sneak Attack. To qualify, an attack must meet the following conditions:
- Melee Attack: Sneak Attack only applies to melee attacks, not ranged attacks.
- Main Hand: Sneak Attack only applies to attacks made with the rogue’s main hand, not off-hand attacks.
- Single Attack: Sneak Attack can only be applied to a single attack per turn. Multiple attacks in a single turn do not qualify for Sneak Attack.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the above conditions, there are a few more requirements that must be met for Sneak Attack to apply:
- Advantage: The rogue must have advantage on their attack roll. This can be due to various factors, such as high proficiency, bonuses from spells or abilities, or being in a advantageous position.
- No Disadvantage: The rogue must not have disadvantage on their attack roll. This can be due to various factors, such as being in a disadvantageous position, being affected by a spell or ability, or being hindered by an environmental factor.
Sneak Attack and Off-Hand Attacks
One common question is whether Sneak Attack applies to off-hand attacks. The answer is no. Sneak Attack only applies to attacks made with the rogue’s main hand, not off-hand attacks. This means that even if a rogue has the opportunity to make an off-hand attack, they cannot apply Sneak Attack to that attack.
Sneak Attack and Opportunity Attacks
Another common question is whether Sneak Attack applies to opportunity attacks. The answer is yes. If a rogue has the opportunity to make an opportunity attack, they can apply Sneak Attack to that attack, as long as the conditions for Sneak Attack are met.
Sneak Attack and Other Abilities
Sneak Attack can interact with other abilities and spells in various ways. For example:
- Booming Blade: Sneak Attack can be used in conjunction with Booming Blade, allowing the rogue to deal additional damage to their target.
- Green Flame Blade: Sneak Attack can be used in conjunction with Green Flame Blade, allowing the rogue to deal additional damage to their target.
- Other Abilities: Sneak Attack can interact with other abilities, such as the rogue’s sneak attack ability, to deal additional damage to their target.
Conclusion
Sneak Attack is a powerful ability that can add significant damage to a rogue’s attacks. However, understanding the rules surrounding Sneak Attack can be complex and nuanced. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that you’re using Sneak Attack correctly and dealing maximum damage to your enemies.
Table: Sneak Attack Conditions
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Melee Attack | Sneak Attack only applies to melee attacks, not ranged attacks. |
| Main Hand | Sneak Attack only applies to attacks made with the rogue’s main hand, not off-hand attacks. |
| Single Attack | Sneak Attack can only be applied to a single attack per turn. Multiple attacks in a single turn do not qualify for Sneak Attack. |
| Advantage | The rogue must have advantage on their attack roll. |
| No Disadvantage | The rogue must not have disadvantage on their attack roll. |
Bullets: Sneak Attack Requirements
• The rogue must be within 5 feet of their target.
• The target must not be incapacitated.
• The rogue must not have disadvantage on their attack roll.
• The rogue must have advantage on their attack roll.
Bullets: Eligible Attacks
• Melee attacks
• Attacks made with the rogue’s main hand
• Single attacks per turn