Does Shove Break Invisibility in D&D 5e? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: No, a shove, by itself, does not break invisibility in D&D 5e. This stems from the specific wording of the Invisibility spell, which states that the spell ends when the affected creature attacks or casts a spell. A shove, whether executed as part of the Attack action or as a bonus action via a feat like Shield Master, isn’t considered an attack in the way the spell defines it. Let’s delve into why this is the case and explore the nuances surrounding invisibility and actions in D&D 5e.
Understanding Invisibility in 5e
The Invisibility spell is a potent tool for stealth and subterfuge. It allows a creature to become unseen, granting advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks and imposing disadvantage on attack rolls against them. However, its duration is limited, typically lasting an hour with concentration. The most crucial limitation, for our discussion, is that Invisibility ends when the invisible creature attacks or casts a spell. This begs the question: What exactly constitutes an attack?
The Player’s Handbook defines the Attack action as a specific action a character can take during their turn. However, not every action that deals damage or hinders an enemy is considered an attack. This distinction is key to understanding why a shove doesn’t break invisibility.
The Mechanics of a Shove
A shove is a special melee attack option available when taking the Attack action. Instead of making an attack roll to damage a creature, you attempt to push them away or knock them prone. The target makes a Strength (Athletics) or Dexterity (Acrobatics) check (their choice), contested by your Strength (Athletics) check. If you win the contest, you either push the target 5 feet away or knock them prone.
Importantly, while a shove uses the Attack action, it isn’t itself an attack in the specific sense that breaks invisibility. You are taking the Attack action, but performing a shove instead of an attack. The same applies if you perform a shove using a bonus action, typically granted by the Shield Master feat. Since the feat only gives you the ability to perform a shove as a bonus action, and shove is not an attack, it does not cause the invisibility spell to end.
Why This Matters: Tactical Implications
Understanding this interaction has significant tactical implications. A character can maintain invisibility while using shoves to control the battlefield, creating openings for allies or maneuvering enemies into unfavorable positions. A rogue, for example, could remain hidden while repeatedly shoving enemies off cliffs or into environmental hazards.
DM Discretion and Rule Interpretation
It’s important to acknowledge that DMs have the final say on how rules are interpreted and applied in their games. A DM could rule that a shove is functionally equivalent to an attack for the purposes of breaking invisibility, especially if the character is using the shove aggressively or repeatedly. However, under a strict reading of the rules as written (RAW), a shove does not break invisibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Grappling Break Invisibility?
No, grappling does not break invisibility. Like shoving, grappling uses the Attack action but isn’t considered an attack that ends the spell.
2. Does Using an Item Break Invisibility?
Generally, no. Using an item (like drinking a potion or applying poison to a weapon) doesn’t break invisibility unless the item itself causes you to attack or cast a spell.
3. Does Moving Break Invisibility?
No, simply moving, even running or dashing, does not break invisibility. The spell only ends when you attack or cast a spell.
4. Does Talking Break Invisibility?
No, speaking or making vocal noises doesn’t break invisibility. You can whisper secrets, taunt enemies, or even sing a song without ending the spell.
5. Does Taking Damage Break Invisibility?
No, being damaged by an attack or spell does not break your own invisibility.
6. Does Interacting with Objects Break Invisibility?
Most interactions with objects, such as opening a door or picking up an item, don’t break invisibility. However, certain actions, like activating a magic item that casts a spell, would.
7. Does the Telekinetic Feat’s Shove Break Invisibility?
Yes, the telekenetic feat’s shove still uses the shove action. A telekinetic shove does not count as an attack, and therefore does not end invisibility.
8. Does Using a Healing Potion on Another Creature Break Invisibility?
No, using a healing potion on another creature does not break your invisibility, as it’s neither an attack nor a spell cast by you.
9. If My Invisible Character is Hit With an Area-of-Effect Spell, Does That Break Their Invisibility?
No, being caught in the area of effect of a spell doesn’t break your invisibility. Only your actions, specifically attacking or casting a spell, end the effect.
10. Does Casting a Spell Through a Familiar Break My Invisibility?
Yes, if you are the one casting the spell, regardless of whether it is through a familiar or not, this will break your invisibility.
11. Does the Ready Action to Attack Break Invisibility?
Yes, if you use the Ready action to attack, you have essentially attacked and will break invisibility.
12. Does Drawing a Weapon Break Invisibility?
No, drawing a weapon is a free action or part of your movement and doesn’t break invisibility. However, attacking with that weapon will end the spell.
13. Does Dodging Break Invisibility?
No, taking the Dodge action does not break invisibility. It’s a defensive maneuver, not an attack or spellcasting.
14. Can I Use the Help Action While Invisible?
Yes, you can use the Help action while invisible. Assisting an ally isn’t an attack or spell, so it doesn’t break the spell.
15. If I Have the Sentinel Feat, Does Making an Opportunity Attack Break Invisibility?
Yes, using the Sentinel feat to make an opportunity attack will break your invisibility, as you are directly attacking a creature.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Invisibility
Understanding the nuances of invisibility and its interactions with various actions and abilities is crucial for both players and DMs. While a shove itself doesn’t break invisibility, being mindful of the specific wording of the Invisibility spell and the actions that do end it is essential for effective gameplay. Remember, DM rulings can always supersede RAW, so clear communication and consistent application of the rules are key to a fair and enjoyable gaming experience. Consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society to further enhance your understanding of game mechanics and their impact on learning. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more insights!