Flanking in 5e: Why it Matters and How to Do It Right

Flanking in 5e: Why it Matters and How to Do It Right

Have you ever been in a tough battle in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e) where you thought, “If only I could get behind that monster, I could deal more damage!”? Well, that’s where flanking comes in! Flanking is an important tactic that can turn the tide of battle in your favor, but it’s often misunderstood or even overlooked. So, let’s dive into what flanking is in 5e, why it’s important, and how you can use it to make your character the hero of the day.

What is Flanking in 5e?

In Dungeons & Dragons, flanking happens when two creatures are on opposite sides of an enemy. This creates an advantage for the attackers. According to the official rules, when a creature is flanked, the attackers have a better chance to hit because they can catch the target off-guard. Sounds great, right? But here’s the catch—flanking isn’t always as straightforward as it seems.

The Problem: Is Flanking Broken?

So, why doesn’t everyone use flanking all the time? Well, the rules for flanking in 5e aren’t as clear-cut as one might think. First off, not all Dungeon Masters (DMs) use the flanking rule. Some prefer to stick with other mechanics, like the Advantage rule, which still makes the game fun, but flanking adds a strategic layer that many players love.

The next problem is the confusion about positioning. In order to flank, your characters need to be on opposite sides of the target, which can be tricky with large enemies or narrow spaces. This can cause frustration when players try to position themselves correctly but just can’t make it work. The rules for flanking also don’t go into a lot of detail about what “opposite sides” really means—can you be diagonal from your target? Can you be on the same row but far apart? These questions leave some players scratching their heads.

Solving the Flanking Mystery

Okay, so how do we solve this issue and start flanking like pros? Let’s break it down:

1. **Know the Rule**: According to the Player’s Handbook, two creatures need to be on opposite sides of a target to flank it. This means they need to be able to draw a straight line between their positions and the target without hitting obstacles or other creatures.

2. **Work with Your DM**: If your DM hasn’t implemented flanking rules, have a chat with them. Many DMs are happy to add house rules to spice up combat, and flanking can be one of them. It’s a simple and effective rule that adds depth to battles.

3. **Use the Environment**: In some situations, you’ll need to be creative with the environment. Large enemies might seem impossible to flank, but using terrain, cover, and clever positioning can still give you the advantage.

4. **Communicate with Your Party**: Flanking requires teamwork. Make sure everyone knows their role and the best way to position themselves. A good team can pull off flanking even in tight spaces, creating opportunities for devastating attacks.

Player Feedback: Love It or Hate It?

So, what do players think about flanking in 5e? On many forums and social media platforms, the opinions are mixed. Some players absolutely love the mechanic, saying it adds extra layers to combat and makes battles feel more dynamic. It’s a rewarding feeling when you pull off a perfect flank and land that critical hit.

On the other hand, there are players who find the positioning requirements to be a bit annoying. For instance, the struggle to fit your character into the right space in a crowded battlefield can feel frustrating. Some players also feel like flanking isn’t as impactful as it should be compared to other combat options.

Have You Flanked Successfully?

Let’s hear from you! Have you ever used flanking in 5e to win a battle, or did you struggle with positioning? Maybe you’ve encountered a situation where flanking felt like a real game-changer! Drop your experiences in the comments below—whether they’re victories or funny failures, we want to know how flanking has worked out for you.

Wrapping It Up

In summary, flanking in 5e can be a powerful tool in your combat strategy, but it’s not always as simple as it sounds. The key is knowing how to position yourself and your allies, understanding the rules, and working with your DM to incorporate it into your games. If you haven’t been using flanking much, now’s a good time to give it a try—it might just give you the edge you need in that next big fight!

So, are you ready to flank your way to victory? Let’s get those monsters surrounded!