Is A Shove An Attack 5e

Is a Shove an Attack in D&D 5e? A Comprehensive Guide

Determining whether a shove is considered an attack in Dungeons & Dragons 5e is crucial for understanding its implications within combat and various game mechanics. This article will dissect the rules surrounding shoving, clarifying its nature and impact on your character's actions and your opponent's reactions. Understanding this will help you make strategic decisions in combat and avoid potential misunderstandings.

The short answer is: no, a shove isn't a traditional attack in D&D 5e. However, it shares some similarities and has significant consequences that make it a powerful tool in a Dungeon Master's arsenal.

Understanding the Mechanics of Shoving

The rules for shoving are found in the Player's Handbook, under the "Using Another Attack" section. This immediately sets it apart from attacks like a sword swing or a spell. While you use your action to shove, it doesn't use your attack action. This is a key distinction.

Instead of rolling for attack, shoving relies on a Strength (Athletics) check contested by the target's Strength (Athletics) or Dexterity (Acrobatics) check. Success means you knock the target prone. This is a significant effect, impacting their ability to act and potentially leaving them vulnerable to further attacks from you or your allies. The creature is prone.

Key Differences Between Shoving and Attacks

Here's a breakdown of the core differences:

• Action Type: Shoving uses your action, not your attack action. You could shove and make an attack in the same turn, providing a tactical advantage. Conversely, an attack replaces the action.
• Attack Roll vs. Ability Check: Shoving uses a Strength (Athletics) check, not an attack roll. This means that it's not affected by modifiers that apply to attacks (such as weapon proficiencies or fighting styles).
• Damage: Shoving doesn't deal damage. Its effect is purely about controlling the battlefield and creating opportunities.

Strategic Implications of Shoving

Despite not being a traditional attack, shoving is a valuable tactical maneuver:

• Knocking creatures prone: This is the primary effect, significantly impacting the target's ability to attack and defend themselves. Prone creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls, and ranged attacks against them have advantage.
• Creating opportunities for allies: By knocking an enemy prone, you create favorable positioning for your allies to attack.
• Combining with other actions: The ability to shove and still make an attack on the same turn greatly increases your tactical versatility.
• Control of the battlefield: Effective use of shoving can help you control the flow of combat, positioning enemies in ways that benefit your strategy.

Situations Where Shoving is Especially Useful

• Against heavily armored foes: While an attack might be less effective against creatures with high AC, shoving offers a chance to bypass armor and create a strategic advantage.
• Against flying creatures: While not guaranteed success, a well-timed shove could dislodge a flying creature, grounding it and making it vulnerable.
• In grappling combat: Shoving often works well in combination with grappling, further limiting the enemy's movement and actions.

Conclusion

While not technically an "attack" in the traditional D&D 5e sense, shoving is a powerful and versatile action that can significantly impact the flow of combat. Understanding its mechanics and strategic applications is vital for any player looking to maximize their effectiveness in battle. Mastering the art of the shove can transform you from a competent adventurer into a truly strategic combatant. Remember to always consult the Player's Handbook for the most up-to-date rules and rulings.