What triggers sneak attack?

What Triggers Sneak Attack?

Sneak attack is a popular rogue ability in Dungeons & Dragons that allows players to deal additional damage to their enemies. But what exactly triggers a sneak attack? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of stealth and combat to answer this question and provide you with the information you need to take your rogue game to the next level.

What is Sneak Attack?

Before we dive into the triggers of sneak attack, let’s first understand what it is. Sneak attack is a special ability that rogues gain when they surprise an enemy or when the enemy is unable to react to the attack. This ability allows the rogue to deal extra damage to the enemy, making it a powerful tool in combat.

What Triggers Sneak Attack?

Now that we know what sneak attack is, let’s get to the main question: what triggers it? According to the official Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition rulebook, a sneak attack can be triggered in two ways:

• Surprise: One way to trigger a sneak attack is to surprise the enemy. This means that the rogue must be able to sneak up on the enemy undetected, or use a spell or ability to make the enemy unaware of the rogue’s presence.
• Disadvantage: The other way to trigger a sneak attack is to give the enemy disadvantage on their saving throw against the attack. This can be done by using an ability or spell that causes the enemy to become confused, frightened, or distracted, making them unable to react to the attack.

Additional Triggers

In addition to surprise and disadvantage, there are a few other ways that a sneak attack can be triggered. These include:

• Grapple: If the rogue is grappling with an enemy, they can use their sneak attack ability to deal extra damage to the enemy.
• Prone: If an enemy is prone, they are unable to move or take reactions, making them an easy target for a sneak attack.
• Hasted: If a rogue has the Haste spell cast on them, they can move quickly and quietly, making it easier to trigger a sneak attack.

Limitations

While sneak attack is a powerful ability, it’s not without its limitations. For example:

• Once per turn: A rogue can only use their sneak attack ability once per turn.
• Only one attack: A rogue can only use their sneak attack ability on one attack per turn, even if they have multiple attacks.
• Specific weapons: Sneak attack can only be used with specific weapons, such as daggers, short swords, and shortbows.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sneak attack is a powerful ability that rogues can use to deal extra damage to their enemies. By understanding what triggers a sneak attack, you can improve your combat abilities and become a more effective rogue. Remember to always keep your eyes open for opportunities to surprise your enemies and use your sneak attack ability to get the upper hand.

Table: Sneak Attack Triggers

References

• Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition Rulebook
• D&D Wiki: Sneak Attack