What triggers the attack of opportunity?

What Triggers the Attack of Opportunity?

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), an attack of opportunity is a crucial aspect of combat mechanics. It allows a player to attack an enemy that is leaving their threatened area, thereby giving them a chance to strike back. But what triggers an attack of opportunity? In this article, we’ll explore the different scenarios that can trigger an attack of opportunity, making it easier for you to navigate the world of D&D.

Direct Answer: What Triggers the Attack of Opportunity?

An attack of opportunity is triggered when a creature is about to leave an enemy’s threatened area. This can happen in several ways, including:

• Moving out of a threatened square: When a creature moves out of a square that is threatened by an enemy, it provokes an attack of opportunity.
• Performing an action within a threatened square: If a creature performs an action, such as casting a spell or using an ability, while within a threatened square, it also provokes an attack of opportunity.
• Teleporting: Teleporting out of a threatened square does not provoke an attack of opportunity.

Prone Creatures: Can They Make Opportunity Attacks?

Prone creatures are often vulnerable, but they can still make opportunity attacks. When a prone creature makes an opportunity attack, it uses its reaction to make one melee attack against the provoking creature.

Touch Attacks: Do They Provoke Attacks of Opportunity?

Touch attacks, such as those made with a touch spell, are considered armed attacks and do not provoke attacks of opportunity. However, the act of casting a spell can still provoke an attack of opportunity.

Pushing and Opportunity Attacks

When a creature is pushed by a spell or ability, it does not provoke an attack of opportunity. This is because the creature is not making an action or movement that would normally trigger an attack of opportunity.

Dissonant Whispers and Opportunity Attacks

Dissonant whispers is a spell that can force a creature to make a Wisdom saving throw. If the creature fails the save, it is stunned for a short duration. If the creature is already prone, it does not need to make a saving throw, and it can make an opportunity attack instead.

Guiding Bolt and Invisibility

Guiding bolt is a spell that allows a cleric to strike an invisible creature. When using guiding bolt, the cleric can target an invisible stalker, but the next creature that sees the stalker would not have advantage due to the stalker’s invisibility.

Table: What Triggers an Attack of Opportunity?

Conclusion

In conclusion, an attack of opportunity is triggered when a creature is about to leave an enemy’s threatened area. This can happen in several ways, including moving out of a threatened square, performing an action within a threatened square, teleporting, prone creatures making an opportunity attack, touch attacks, and pushing. By understanding what triggers an attack of opportunity, you can better navigate the world of D&D and make strategic decisions in combat.