What is the Flanking Rule in D&D?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The flanking rule in D&D is an optional combat mechanic that grants an advantage on melee attack rolls when two allies are positioned strategically around an enemy. Specifically, when a creature and at least one of its allies are adjacent to an enemy, and they are on opposite sides or corners of the enemy’s space, they are considered to be flanking the enemy. When flanking, each of the flanking allies gains advantage on melee attack rolls against that enemy. This tactical positioning is meant to simulate attacking an opponent from a less-defended angle, making it easier to hit. While not a core rule in D&D 5th Edition (5e), many DMs utilize it to add a layer of tactical depth to combat.
How Flanking Works
Positioning is Key
The core of flanking lies in positioning. For a successful flank, two allies must meet these criteria:
- Adjacent: Each ally must be adjacent to the enemy they are trying to flank. This typically means being within one 5-foot square of the enemy in most standard D&D game maps.
- Opposite Sides or Corners: The allies must be positioned on opposite sides of the enemy or occupying opposite corners of the enemy’s space. For a medium-sized creature this would mean being on direct opposite sides.
- Friendly to Each Other: The flanking allies must be friendly to each other, meaning they must be working together. This typically involves other player characters or their allies.
The Advantage of Advantage
The benefit of a successful flank is the granting of advantage on melee attack rolls. With advantage, the attacker rolls two d20s and takes the higher result. This significantly increases the probability of hitting an enemy and is one of the most valuable bonuses in D&D 5e. The effect is only applied on melee attacks against the flanked creature.
When Flanking Isn’t Possible
Not all situations will allow for flanking. There are limitations and exceptions to consider:
- Creature Size: The size of the creature being flanked matters. When dealing with creatures that take up more than one square on the map, positioning becomes more complex. The rule for how many hexes or squares are needed for flanking varies in different systems. For example, a large creature will need a wider flank than a medium or small creature.
- Terrain and Obstacles: Terrain and obstacles can prevent allies from getting into ideal flanking positions. Walls, difficult terrain, or other creatures can block the required line of sight.
- DM Discretion: As flanking is an optional rule, the final decision on whether flanking is possible, and how it is applied rests entirely with the Dungeon Master (DM). The DM may choose not to use flanking at all, or they can impose additional rules or limitations on its use.
- Creature Abilities: Certain creatures, like a Beholder with its all-around vision ability, can’t be flanked, no matter the positioning of the allies.
Tactical Implications of Flanking
Enhanced Melee Combat
Flanking significantly boosts the efficacy of melee combatants. By working together and positioning effectively, characters can more reliably hit their targets and deliver more damage. Classes like Fighters, Barbarians, and Rogues often benefit the most from this tactic.
Teamwork and Coordination
Flanking encourages teamwork and coordination among players. It forces them to think tactically about movement and position on the battlefield, emphasizing a cooperative approach to combat.
Strategic Movement
Flanking influences the overall strategic layout of the battle. Characters must maneuver to gain flanking positions, leading to more dynamic and engaging encounters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is flanking a standard rule in D&D 5e?
No, flanking is not a standard rule in D&D 5e. It is an optional rule that the Dungeon Master (DM) can choose to implement in their games.
2. What edition of D&D has flanking rules?
Flanking has appeared in various editions of D&D. It was prominent in D&D 4th Edition (4e) as a standard rule. It is also found as an optional rule in D&D 5th Edition.
3. What is combat advantage in D&D 4e?
In D&D 4e, being flanked granted an opponent combat advantage, which provided a +2 bonus to attack rolls.
4. How does flanking interact with other sources of advantage in D&D 5e?
Advantage from flanking does not stack with other sources of advantage. If a character already has advantage, gaining it from flanking does not grant additional advantage.
5. Can ranged attacks gain advantage from flanking?
No, the advantage gained from flanking is usually limited to melee attacks only. Ranged attacks are not typically affected by flanking.
6. How do you defend against flanking?
Defending against flanking involves ensuring your own troops are positioned to prevent your flanks from being exposed. This can be done by using terrain to your advantage, employing defensive formations, or having units capable of moving quickly to reinforce vulnerable areas.
7. Can multiple allies flank one enemy?
While it’s most common to think of two allies flanking one enemy, it is also possible for multiple allies to flank if they fulfil the positioning requirements, but each ally only gains advantage once for flanking. It is not cumulative.
8. How is flanking handled in Theatre of the Mind?
In games using Theatre of the Mind, flanking relies on the DM and players agreeing on positional concepts. Players can state their intent to move to a flanking position, and the DM can assess whether that meets the rule’s requirements. The specific definition of “opposite sides” becomes more conceptual.
9. What happens when a flanked creature moves?
Once a flank is established, it typically remains in effect as long as the flanking creatures remain in their necessary positions. If the flanked creature moves, the flanking advantage may be lost if the flank position is no longer maintained by the allies. If flanking allies lose their position, they may need to reposition again.
10. How do you handle flanking large and bigger creatures in D&D?
Larger creatures take up more space, necessitating more spacing for flanking. For large creatures, the flanking allies must be on opposite sides or corners of the creature’s larger area. Generally, the allies must be as far apart from each other as they can without leaving the space adjacent to the creature’s area.
11. Can a creature flank itself?
No, for the flank to be successful, the allies need to be friendly to each other, the same creature can’t flank itself.
12. Are there any downsides to using flanking rules?
Some argue that flanking can make combat too easy, particularly for melee characters, and potentially devalue other tactical options. The use of flanking needs to be managed by the DM in order to avoid it making combat too easy.
13. Why is flanking considered a military tactic?
In military strategy, flanking is about attacking the weaker, less defended sides of an enemy formation. By attacking the flanks, you bypass the enemy’s primary defenses, and can often gain significant advantages in battle.
14. Does the flanking rule need to be used?
No, the decision to use flanking rules is entirely optional and rests with the DM.
15. What are some alternatives to the flanking rule?
Some DMs may choose to use an alternative rule like the Help action, instead of a flanking rule, or rules based on other strategic elements such as height advantage or cover in combat. Ultimately, the goal of any rules is to enhance the player experience and engage them fully in the game and its story.
By understanding the rules and tactical implications of flanking, both DMs and players can add a significant level of depth and enjoyment to their D&D games. It can often enhance the feel of a more realistic and engaging combat, but as it is an optional rule, the DM must carefully consider if it will enhance the game before adding it.