What is the Difference between Multiattack and Extra Attack 5e?
In the world of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) 5th edition, combat is a crucial aspect of the game. Two terms that often confuse players and DMs alike are Multiattack and Extra Attack. While they may seem similar, they serve distinct purposes and have different rules. In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between Multiattack and Extra Attack 5e, helping you navigate the world of combat with confidence.
What is Multiattack?
Multiattack is a feature that allows a creature to make multiple attacks with its action. This can be a powerful ability, especially for creatures with multiple attacks, such as monsters with claws or tentacles. When a creature uses its Multiattack ability, it can make multiple attacks, but it still only takes one action. This means that the creature can only perform one other action, such as casting a spell or moving, during its turn.
What is Extra Attack?
Extra Attack is a feature that allows a character to make an additional attack with their action. This ability is typically granted to characters who have reached a certain level or have taken a specific class. When a character uses their Extra Attack ability, they can make an additional attack, but it still only takes one action. This means that the character can still perform other actions, such as casting a spell or moving, during their turn.
Key Differences
Here are the key differences between Multiattack and Extra Attack:
- Number of Attacks: Multiattack allows a creature to make multiple attacks, while Extra Attack allows a character to make an additional attack.
- Action Economy: Multiattack uses up the creature’s entire action, while Extra Attack uses up only a portion of the character’s action.
- Restrictions: Multiattack is typically restricted to creatures with multiple attacks, while Extra Attack is typically granted to characters who have reached a certain level or have taken a specific class.
Examples and Scenarios
Here are some examples and scenarios to help illustrate the differences between Multiattack and Extra Attack:
- Example 1: A goblin has a Multiattack ability that allows it to make two attacks with its action. If it uses its Multiattack ability, it can make two attacks, but it can’t perform any other actions during its turn.
- Example 2: A fighter has an Extra Attack ability that allows them to make an additional attack with their action. If they use their Extra Attack ability, they can make two attacks, but they can still perform other actions during their turn, such as casting a spell or moving.
- Scenario 1: A group of adventurers are fighting a giant spider that has a Multiattack ability. The spider uses its Multiattack ability to make three attacks, but it can’t perform any other actions during its turn.
- Scenario 2: A group of adventurers are fighting a paladin who has an Extra Attack ability. The paladin uses their Extra Attack ability to make two attacks, and then casts a healing spell to heal their allies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Multiattack and Extra Attack are two distinct abilities that serve different purposes in the world of D&D 5e. While Multiattack allows creatures to make multiple attacks with their action, Extra Attack allows characters to make an additional attack with their action. Understanding the differences between these abilities can help you navigate combat scenarios with confidence and make the most of your characters’ abilities.
Table: Multiattack vs Extra Attack
| Multiattack | Extra Attack | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Attacks | Multiple attacks | Additional attack |
| Action Economy | Uses up entire action | Uses up portion of action |
| Restrictions | Typically restricted to creatures with multiple attacks | Typically granted to characters who have reached a certain level or have taken a specific class |
Bullets: Key Takeaways
- Multiattack allows creatures to make multiple attacks with their action.
- Extra Attack allows characters to make an additional attack with their action.
- Multiattack uses up the creature’s entire action, while Extra Attack uses up only a portion of the character’s action.
- Multiattack is typically restricted to creatures with multiple attacks, while Extra Attack is typically granted to characters who have reached a certain level or have taken a specific class.