Wielding a weapon in the heat of battle isn’t just about brute force; it’s a calculated dance of steel and strategy. The question of how many attacks you can unleash with your weapon in a single round, within the framework of 2nd Edition rules, is a complex one, with nuances that can drastically alter the tide of combat. Imagine a whirling dervish of blades, a flurry of blows descending upon a foe, or the measured, powerful swing of a greatsword cleaving through the air – the number of attacks you can make dictates the rhythm and effectiveness of your offensive. Understanding the factors that contribute to multiple attacks is crucial for maximizing your martial prowess and ensuring victory on the battlefield. Furthermore, these factors are often intertwined and build upon each other, demanding careful consideration of character build, weapon choice, and tactical positioning.
First and foremost, the foundation of multiple attacks lies in your character’s class and level. Specifically, fighters, rangers, and some paladin variants gain additional attacks as they progress, representing their mastery of combat techniques. For instance, a seasoned fighter can unleash a whirlwind of blows, striking multiple times with each swing of their weapon, while a novice warrior might only manage a single attack. Moreover, certain specialized fighting styles, such as two-weapon fighting, grant the ability to attack with an off-hand weapon, albeit often at a reduced penalty. In addition to class abilities, specific feats, such as Ambidexterity or Two-Weapon Fighting Specialization, further enhance a character’s capacity for multiple attacks. These feats, however, often come with prerequisites and trade-offs, requiring careful consideration of character progression. Consequently, building a character capable of launching a barrage of attacks necessitates a thoughtful approach to character development from the very beginning.
Beyond the inherent capabilities of your character, the type of weapon wielded plays a significant role in the number of attacks possible. Certain weapons, like whips or flails, inherently allow for multiple attacks due to their design and method of use. Furthermore, magical enchantments can imbue weapons with the ability to strike multiple times, adding another layer of complexity to the equation. For example, a sword imbued with the speed enchantment might grant its wielder an additional attack, allowing them to overwhelm their opponent with a flurry of blows. Finally, consider the influence of the environment. A narrow corridor might restrict movement and limit the number of attacks possible, while open terrain offers greater freedom of movement and potentially more opportunities to strike. Therefore, tactical awareness and positioning become paramount when seeking to maximize your offensive potential, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between character abilities, weapon choice, and battlefield conditions.
Understanding the Multiple Attack Penalty
In the thrilling world of tabletop role-playing games, combat often involves a flurry of blows, a dance of steel and strategy. But just how many times can a seasoned warrior swing their sword or loose an arrow in a single round of combat? This depends on several factors, including their proficiency with their chosen weapon and the inherent limitations imposed by the game’s rules. A key concept to grasp in this regard is the Multiple Attack Penalty (MAP).
The MAP is a crucial mechanic designed to balance the power of characters capable of making multiple attacks in a single round. It prevents characters from becoming whirlwinds of destruction, ensuring that even the most skilled combatants face trade-offs when choosing to unleash a barrage of attacks. The basic principle is simple: the more attacks you make, the harder each subsequent attack becomes. This reflects the real-world difficulty of maintaining accuracy and power when attacking repeatedly in quick succession. Fatigue, recovery time between swings, and the difficulty of targeting vulnerable spots all contribute to this diminishing effectiveness.
The specific values for the Multiple Attack Penalty often vary based on game editions and individual character abilities. However, a common structure sees the penalty increase incrementally for each attack beyond the first. For example, a character’s first attack might be made at their full attack bonus. Their second attack in the same round, however, could suffer a -5 penalty, meaning they are 5 less likely to hit. A third attack might face a -10 penalty, and so on. These penalties can quickly add up, making later attacks in a round significantly less likely to connect. This encourages players to consider their actions carefully, weighing the potential benefit of multiple attacks against the increasing risk of missing altogether. It creates a tactical decision point: is it better to make one highly accurate attack or gamble on multiple attacks with decreasing chances of success?
Furthermore, certain abilities or fighting styles can modify the Multiple Attack Penalty. Some characters might have specialized training that reduces the penalty they incur, allowing them to make more attacks with greater accuracy. Conversely, certain weapons, particularly large or unwieldy ones, might carry a higher base penalty, reflecting their difficulty to use in rapid succession. Understanding these nuances is essential for optimizing combat effectiveness and playing your character to their fullest potential.
Example Multiple Attack Penalties
The following table illustrates a typical structure for Multiple Attack Penalties. Keep in mind that specific values may vary depending on the game system and character abilities.
| Attack Number | Penalty |
|---|---|
| 1st | +0 |
| 2nd | -5 |
| 3rd | -10 |
| 4th | -15 |
Impact on Combat
The Multiple Attack Penalty has a profound impact on combat tactics. It encourages players to think strategically about their actions and consider the trade-offs between multiple attacks and accuracy. Do you risk multiple attacks with decreasing accuracy, or focus on a single, powerful blow? This dynamic creates engaging combat scenarios where players must adapt and strategize to overcome the challenges presented by the MAP.
Calculating Your Full Attack Action
Figuring out how many attacks you get in a full attack action in AD&D 2nd Edition can seem a bit tricky at first, but it’s manageable once you break it down. Essentially, it comes down to your class, your level, and the speed of your weapon. Let’s dive in.
Weapon Speed and Base Attacks
Every weapon has a speed factor. This number indicates how quickly you can swing it. A lower number means a faster weapon. Daggers, for instance, are usually quite fast. This speed factor interacts with your class and level to determine your base attacks per round. You’ll find this information laid out in the player’s handbook for each character class.
Multiple Attacks and High-Level Characters
As you gain levels, you’ll start to gain multiple attacks per round. This often starts with a second attack at a slightly lower attack bonus, followed by potentially more attacks as you progress to higher levels. The exact progression depends on your character class. Fighter types tend to gain more attacks faster than other classes, showcasing their martial prowess. However, even spellcasters and rogues will eventually be able to make multiple attacks, though often at higher levels.
Specialization and Weapon Mastery
Certain character classes, primarily fighters and rangers, have access to weapon specialization. Specialization allows a character to add a bonus to their damage rolls with their chosen weapon(s). At higher levels, this can become Weapon Mastery, which grants even further benefits like increased attack rolls. If you’re playing a class capable of specializing or mastering weapons, your character build can become heavily optimized around chosen weapons. You may even unlock a greater number of attacks than normal with that specific weapon. Consult your class description to see what options are available. For example, let’s look at a Fighter with various weapon proficiencies at different levels of specialization:
| Level | Proficiency | Long Sword | Short Sword | Dagger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | No Specialization | 1 attack | 1 attack | 1 attack |
| 5th | Specialization in Long Sword | 2 attacks (1/2) | 1 attack | 1 attack |
| 10th | Mastery in Long Sword | 3 attacks (1/2/3) | 1 attack | 1 attack |
In this example, you can see how the Fighter’s attacks increase with both level and specialization. With no specialization, they attack once per round with any weapon. After specializing in Long Sword at 5th level, they gain a second attack with that weapon at a -2 penalty to their attack roll (represented as 1/2). Finally, at 10th level and with Mastery, they have three attacks (1 at full attack bonus, 1 at -2, and another at -3.) This highlights how significantly specialization and mastery can impact your character’s combat effectiveness, particularly at higher levels of play.
The Impact of High Base Attack Bonus
A high base attack bonus (BAB) is a cornerstone of effective martial characters in Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition (AD&D 2e). It directly influences how many attacks you can make in a round, significantly impacting your damage output. A higher BAB allows you to make more attacks per round, increasing your chances of hitting and thus dealing more damage. This is especially important against enemies with high Armor Class (AC), where multiple attacks increase the likelihood of landing at least one successful hit.
Multiple Attacks and Their Progression
The number of attacks a character can make is tied directly to their BAB. As your BAB increases, you unlock additional attacks at higher levels. These extra attacks aren’t just extra dice rolls; they represent a character’s improved combat prowess and ability to strike multiple times within a single round. This progression is vital for maintaining a character’s effectiveness as they face tougher challenges and higher-level monsters. Imagine a fighter facing a powerful dragon; landing a single hit might not be enough. Multiple attacks offer a greater chance to wear down such formidable foes.
How BAB Interacts with Other Combat Factors
BAB doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It works in conjunction with other elements like Strength, weapon proficiency, and special abilities. A high Strength score complements a high BAB, adding to the damage inflicted with each successful hit. Weapon proficiency ensures that you’re skilled with your chosen weapon, reducing the penalties for fighting with unfamiliar armaments. Furthermore, certain classes and abilities can grant bonus attacks or improve the effectiveness of existing ones, maximizing your combat potential.
Understanding the Attack Progression with Examples
Let’s delve into the specifics of how BAB translates into attacks. Imagine a fighter with a BAB of +10. This means they can make two attacks per round: one at their full BAB (+10) and a second attack at a -5 penalty (+5). A fighter with a BAB of +15, however, can make three attacks: one at +15, one at +10, and one at +5. This illustrates how crucial those incremental BAB increases are. Each additional attack significantly boosts your damage potential, especially when combined with powerful weapons or critical hits.
Detailed Breakdown of Attack Progression with BAB
The progression of attacks based on BAB follows a set pattern. For every +5 BAB above +1, a character gains an additional attack. This additional attack is made at progressively lower attack bonuses, usually in increments of -5. Let’s illustrate this with a table and further examples:
| Base Attack Bonus | Number of Attacks | Attack Bonus for Each Attack |
|---|---|---|
| +1 to +4 | 1 | Full BAB |
| +5 to +9 | 2 | Full BAB, BAB -5 |
| +10 to +14 | 3 | Full BAB, BAB -5, BAB -10 |
| +15 to +19 | 4 | Full BAB, BAB -5, BAB -10, BAB-15 |
| +20 | 5 | Full BAB, BAB -5, BAB -10, BAB -15, BAB -20 |
For instance, a character with a BAB of +3 makes a single attack at +3. A character with a BAB of +7 makes two attacks: one at +7 and another at +2 (+7 - 5). Moving up the scale, a character boasting a BAB of +12 makes three attacks: one at +12, another at +7 (+12 - 5), and a final attack at +2 (+12 - 10). Finally, with a BAB of +18, our hypothetical warrior unleashes four attacks at +18, +13, +8, and +3 respectively. This clear progression demonstrates how vital a high BAB is for dealing significant damage, especially in challenging combat scenarios.
The Role of Weapon Specialization
Weapon specialization further enhances the benefits of a high BAB. By specializing in a specific weapon, a warrior gains a +1 attack bonus with that weapon. This bonus stacks with the existing BAB, further increasing the likelihood of hitting and dealing significant damage. For characters heavily reliant on martial combat, weapon specialization becomes a crucial choice, effectively magnifying the impact of their high BAB and solidifying their role as formidable damage dealers.
Two-Weapon Fighting
Dual-wielding weapons, a classic image of a skilled warrior, offers a thrilling combat experience in 2nd Edition. However, it’s not as simple as just grabbing two swords and swinging away. There are specific rules governing two-weapon fighting, determining how many attacks you can make and how effective they are.
First and foremost, you need the Two-Weapon Fighting proficiency. Without it, attempting to attack with an off-hand weapon incurs significant penalties. Even with the proficiency, your off-hand attacks are generally less accurate. Furthermore, certain weapon types are better suited for two-weapon fighting than others. Lighter, one-handed weapons like daggers and short swords are ideal, while larger, heavier weapons are unwieldy and impractical in a dual-wielding setup.
Multiple Attacks
As your character grows in power and experience, they gain the ability to unleash multiple attacks in a single round. This represents a significant increase in offensive capability. The number of attacks you can make is determined by your class, level, and specific fighting style. Fighters, for instance, are renowned for their ability to deliver a flurry of blows, while other classes may achieve multiple attacks at a slower pace.
Number of Attacks per Round Based on Fighter Level
This table illustrates how the number of attacks a fighter can make increases as they level up, showcasing a clear progression of combat prowess.
| Fighter Level | Number of Attacks |
|---|---|
| 1st - 4th | 1 |
| 5th - 10th | 2 |
| 11th - 15th | 3 |
| 16th+ | 4 |
Factors Affecting Multiple Attacks
Several factors can influence the number of attacks you can make. Certain class features, feats, and magical enhancements can grant additional attacks or improve your existing ones. For example, a fighter might take a feat that allows them to make an additional attack as a bonus action. Alternatively, a magical weapon could bestow an extra attack when wielded.
The Haste Spell and Multiple Attacks
The haste spell is a powerful example of magical enhancement. When cast upon a character, it grants them an additional action on their turn, significantly boosting their offensive potential. A fighter under the effects of haste could potentially double their number of attacks, transforming them into a whirlwind of steel. However, the effects of haste are temporary, and its potent magic comes at a price, making it a valuable but limited resource.
Dual Wielding and Multiple Attacks
Combining two-weapon fighting with the ability to make multiple attacks can create complex combat scenarios. If a character has the ability to make two attacks per round and is proficient in two-weapon fighting, they could potentially make two attacks with their main hand weapon and one with their off-hand weapon. This flurry of blows can overwhelm opponents, but careful management of actions and resources is crucial.
Action Economy and Multiple Attacks
Understanding action economy is essential for maximizing the effectiveness of multiple attacks. Each round, you have a limited number of actions, bonus actions, and reactions. Multiple attacks consume your actions, so choosing the right time and target is vital. Sometimes, using an action for a different purpose, like casting a spell or using a special ability, might be more strategically advantageous than simply making another attack. Effective combat isn’t just about dealing damage; it’s about making the most of every action.
Natural Attacks
Many creatures rely on their natural weapons – claws, teeth, horns, and the like – to defend themselves or hunt prey. Understanding how these attacks function within the action economy is crucial. Generally, a single natural attack takes a standard action. If a creature has multiple natural attacks, it can use all of them in one round. For example, a creature with a bite and two claw attacks can make all three attacks as part of a single standard action. This multi-attack doesn’t involve any special actions or penalties beyond the usual attack roll calculations for each individual strike.
Multiple Attacks
Multiple attacks in AD&D 2nd Edition refer to situations where a character or creature can make more than one attack with a weapon or combination of weapons in a single round. The number of attacks possible is generally tied to character level and class. Fighters, for example, gain additional attacks as they progress, allowing them to unleash a flurry of blows against their foes. These multiple attacks are tiered and occur at distinct points in the round. For example, a high-level fighter might have three attacks per round – one at their normal initiative, one at initiative -3, and a final attack at initiative -6. This allows them to potentially overwhelm opponents with sheer offensive output.
Number of Attacks
Let’s delve deeper into the number of attacks a character can make in a round.
Determining Attack Quantity
The primary factor determining the number of attacks is character class. Fighters, rangers, and paladins are known for their martial prowess and gain additional attacks faster than other classes. Conversely, classes like mages and clerics gain fewer or no additional attacks as they progress. This reinforces the distinct roles each class plays within a party, highlighting fighters as the frontline damage dealers. Beyond class, certain specialized weapons, magical enhancements, and high-strength scores can also influence the number of attacks possible.
Attack Progression
The rate at which characters gain additional attacks varies between classes. Fighters, being the most adept at combat, generally gain additional attacks at earlier levels. A fighter might gain their second attack at level 5, their third at level 10, and so on, following a specific progression outlined in the class description. Other classes, like rangers and paladins, gain additional attacks at a slower pace, reflecting their more versatile skill set that balances combat prowess with other abilities. Here’s a simplified example to illustrate how this might work:
| Level | Fighter Attacks | Ranger Attacks |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 5 | 2 | 1 |
| 10 | 3 | 2 |
| 15 | 4 | 2 |
| 20 | 5 | 3 |
Attack Sequence and Initiative
Multiple attacks are resolved in a specific order within a round. The initial attack happens at the character’s normal initiative. Subsequent attacks occur at progressively lower initiatives. For example, a fighter with three attacks might make their first attack at initiative 10, their second at initiative 7 (10 - 3), and their third at initiative 4 (10 - 6). This staggered sequence represents the character dividing their attention and actions across the round to deliver multiple blows. It’s crucial to understand this timing mechanic to accurately track combat flow and predict enemy actions. This also impacts the flow of combat, as a character might make one attack before, and one or more attacks after, an opponent acts.
Understanding these attack sequences and their timing ramifications is vital for both players and Dungeon Masters alike. It ensures a dynamic and tactical combat experience where action economy and positioning play crucial roles in determining the outcome of battles. Mastery of this system allows players to maximize their offensive potential and DMs to craft engaging and challenging encounters.
Special Abilities and Multiple Attacks (e.g., Haste, Flurry of Blows)
Figuring out how many attacks you get in a round can sometimes feel like solving a riddle, especially when special abilities and spells get involved. Let’s break down how these affect your action economy and how many times you can swing your sword (or fire your crossbow, or fling a spell).
Extra Attacks
Many character builds, especially martial classes, gain the ability to make multiple attacks with a single action as they level up. This is often referred to as “Extra Attack.” This feature is usually specific to the weapon being used and is a core component of martial classes’ damage output. For example, a fighter at 5th level typically makes two attacks when taking the Attack action.
Haste
The haste spell is a powerful option for increasing your attacks. It grants you an additional action on your turn, which can be used for only certain things, one of which is the Attack action. Importantly, this extra action from haste only allows for a single weapon attack, even if you normally have the Extra Attack feature. So, a 5th-level fighter under the effects of haste would make three attacks: two from their regular Attack action and one from the haste action. This can significantly boost your damage output for a round.
Flurry of Blows
Monks have a unique ability called Flurry of Blows. As a bonus action, a monk can make two unarmed strikes. These attacks are considered separate from their regular Attack action, allowing a monk to make multiple attacks in a round, even at lower levels where they may not yet have Extra Attack. For example, a 5th level monk could use their Attack action for two attacks, and then use their bonus action for a Flurry of Blows for an additional two unarmed strikes, for a total of four attacks.
Other Abilities
Several other abilities and spells can modify the number of attacks you can make. These might involve bonus actions, reactions, or specific conditions. Always check the exact wording of the ability to understand how it interacts with your other actions and features.
Dual Wielding
Dual wielding allows you to wield a weapon in each hand. If you take the Attack action and are wielding two light weapons, you can make one attack with each weapon. However, your off-hand attack doesn’t benefit from your ability modifier to damage unless that modifier is negative. There’s also the Two-Weapon Fighting style, which allows you to add your ability modifier to the damage of your off-hand attack, making dual wielding a more attractive option.
Combining Abilities
The real complexity arises when combining multiple attack-increasing abilities. For example, a hasted monk with Extra Attack could potentially make a substantial number of attacks in a single round. They would make two attacks with their Attack action, one attack from haste, and two from a Flurry of Blows, totaling five attacks. Keeping track of these different sources of attacks is crucial for maximizing your combat effectiveness.
Action Breakdown Examples
To illustrate these combinations, here’s a quick reference table:
| Character | Level | Abilities/Spells | Total Attacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fighter | 5th | None | 2 |
| Fighter | 5th | Haste | 3 |
| Monk | 5th | None | 2 (Attack) + 2 (Flurry of Blows) = 4 |
| Monk | 5th | Haste | 2 (Attack) + 1 (Haste) + 2 (Flurry of Blows) = 5 |
| Fighter | 5th | Two-Weapon Fighting | 2 (main hand) + 1 (off-hand) = 3 |
Iterative Attacks and Their Progression
In the thrilling world of tabletop role-playing games, combat often takes center stage. Understanding the nuances of attacking, especially with multiple attacks, is crucial for both players and game masters. Let’s delve into the intricacies of iterative attacks and how they progress as a character gains experience and power.
What are Iterative Attacks?
Iterative attacks allow a character to make multiple attacks in a single round, representing their increased combat prowess. These attacks typically occur at progressively lower attack bonuses, reflecting the difficulty of maintaining accuracy and power throughout a flurry of blows.
How do they work?
A character’s ability to make iterative attacks is primarily determined by their Base Attack Bonus (BAB). This number, derived from class levels and sometimes racial traits, dictates the number and effectiveness of their iterative attacks. As a character’s BAB increases, they unlock more attacks at higher BAB values, allowing for a greater volume of attacks in a single round.
BAB and Attack Progression
As a character’s BAB increases, they gain additional attacks. The standard progression is as follows:
| Base Attack Bonus | Attacks |
|---|---|
| +1 to +5 | 1 attack |
| +6 to +10 | 2 attacks (+6/+1) |
| +11 to +15 | 3 attacks (+11/+6/+1) |
| +16 to +20 | 4 attacks (+16/+11/+6/+1) |
The notation (+X/+Y/+Z) indicates the attack bonus for each successive attack. Notice how the difference between each attack bonus is always 5. For instance, a character with a BAB of +13 would have three attacks: one at +13, one at +8 (13-5), and one at +3 (8-5).
Full Attacks vs. Standard Attacks
It’s crucial to distinguish between a standard attack action (often just called “attack”) and a full attack action. A standard attack allows for only a single attack, even if a character has a high enough BAB to make multiple attacks. A full attack action, however, unleashes the character’s full offensive potential, allowing them to make all of their iterative attacks in a round. Many combat maneuvers, spells, and special abilities also require a full-round action, creating tactical decisions about whether to go all-out with a full attack or perform a different action.
Two-Weapon Fighting
Wielding a weapon in each hand introduces additional complexity to iterative attacks. While allowing for an extra attack, off-hand attacks usually incur penalties. Specific feats can mitigate these penalties and improve the effectiveness of two-weapon fighting.
Multiple Attacks with Different Weapons
Normally, a character makes all their iterative attacks with the same weapon. However, certain abilities and situations may allow for attacks with different weapons. For example, a character might make a primary attack with a greatsword and a secondary attack with a throwing axe.
Other Modifiers to Iterative Attacks
Various factors can modify iterative attacks. These include:
- Strength/Dexterity Bonus: Adds to the attack roll and damage.
- Size Modifiers: Creatures of different sizes have inherent bonuses or penalties to attack.
- Feats: Certain feats grant additional attacks or improve attack bonuses.
- Combat Maneuvers: Disarming, tripping, or grappling can sometimes replace an attack.
- Haste and other spells: Magical effects can grant additional attacks or modify existing ones.
Attacking with a Weapon: A Deep Dive into the +8 BAB Scenario
Let’s take a closer look at a character with a +8 BAB, a common milestone in many campaigns. This fighter, we’ll call her Anya, now has access to two attacks per full attack action: one at her full BAB of +8, and a second attack at +3 (8-5). This represents a significant increase in her damage output compared to earlier levels when she could only make a single attack. Imagine Anya wielding a longsword. With her +8 BAB, she swings her longsword with practiced precision. If she hits, she rolls for damage, adding her Strength bonus and any other relevant modifiers. Then, with slightly less momentum, she makes her second attack at +3. This second attack might represent a follow-up swing, a quick jab, or an attempt to exploit an opening created by her first attack. It’s important to remember that while Anya *can* make two attacks when taking a full attack action, she still only makes *one* attack if she takes a standard action to attack. This tactical choice is often crucial in the heat of battle. Should she strive for maximum damage output with a full attack, or should she use a standard attack to free up her action for something else, like moving, casting a quickened spell, or drinking a healing potion? Understanding this distinction is paramount for effective play in a 2nd Edition game.
Practical Examples of Multiple Attacks in Combat
Understanding how many attacks you can make with a weapon in Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition (AD&D 2e) can be a little tricky. It’s not just about how many weapons you have, but also about your character’s level, class, and fighting style. Let’s break down some practical examples to illustrate how this works in actual combat scenarios.
Example 1: The Hasty Fighter
A 5th-level fighter, armed with a longsword, rushes into combat against a group of goblins. At this level, they can attack once per round. Even if they were dual-wielding, with a shortsword in their off-hand, they would still only attack once with their primary weapon (the longsword) in a normal round. They could choose to attack with the off-hand weapon, but this comes with penalties. This emphasizes the importance of strategic positioning and choosing your attacks wisely, even for martial classes at lower levels.
Example 2: The Seasoned Warrior
Now, let’s look at a 13th-level fighter. They’ve honed their skills and learned to unleash multiple attacks in a single round. With their trusty longsword, they now attack three times per round. This significant increase in attacks makes them a formidable force on the battlefield. Even if they opted for a two-handed sword, they’d still get three attacks, showcasing the power of a high-level fighter.
Example 3: The Agile Ranger
A 9th-level ranger, specialized in archery, finds themselves ambushed by bandits. With their longbow, they can attack twice per round. If they find themselves in melee with a pair of daggers, however, their attacks per round will depend on their specialization. If they have specialized in two-weapon combat, they might attack twice per round, albeit possibly with penalties. If they are not specialized, their melee attacks might be fewer and less effective than with their ranged weapon. This illustrates how specialization affects a character’s combat effectiveness.
Example 4: The Swift Monk
Monks, with their specialized martial arts, present a different scenario. Let’s consider a 9th-level monk facing a single opponent. They can make multiple attacks per round, but the exact number depends on the specific monk rules in place, as some tables or house rules modify the standard attack progression. A 9th level monk might make 3 attacks in a single round and 4 in a single round while using a flurry of blows, while they might attack a single time but multiple times in a single round. This illustrates the unique and flexible fighting style of monks.
Example 5: The Fury of the Barbarian
Imagine a 10th-level barbarian, enraged and charging into a horde of orcs. With their great axe, they attack twice per round. When entering a berserk frenzy, however, this number could increase further, granting them extra attacks, making them a truly terrifying force on the battlefield. This highlights the situational nature of attacks and how specific class abilities can drastically alter combat effectiveness.
Example 6: The Precise Rogue
A 7th-level rogue, hidden in the shadows, prepares to ambush a lone guard. With their dagger, they can attack once per round. However, rogues typically rely on backstabbing for increased damage. If they can successfully position themselves behind the guard and land a successful backstab, they deliver a significantly more potent blow, often multiplying their damage. This underscores the importance of positioning and tactical thinking for rogues, rather than sheer number of attacks.
Example 7: The Spell-Slinging Mage
A 12th-level mage, facing a charging ogre, prepares a spell. Mages don’t typically make attacks with weapons. Their power comes from their spells. In this case, the mage might cast a powerful offensive spell, like *fireball*, which doesn’t involve an attack roll in the same way a weapon does. It has an area of effect that can damage multiple targets. This demonstrates the different approach to combat that spellcasters take.
Example 8: The Multi-Weapon Warrior
Let’s revisit our 13th-level fighter. This time, they’re wielding a longsword and a shortsword. While they still attack three times per round, they can choose to split these attacks between their two weapons. Perhaps they make two attacks with the longsword and one with the shortsword. This allows for some flexibility in their combat approach. However, attacking with an off-hand weapon typically incurs penalties.
Example 9: The Grandmaster of Arms (Level 20 Fighter)
Our fighter has reached the pinnacle of martial prowess: 20th level. With decades of experience under their belt, they’ve truly mastered the art of combat. Wielding their trusty longsword, they can now unleash a flurry of blows, attacking a remarkable *five* times per round. This exemplifies the peak of martial ability in AD&D 2e. Their attacks are precise and devastating, making them a force to be reckoned with. They have become a whirlwind of steel, capable of overwhelming even the toughest opponents. Consider a scenario where our Grandmaster faces a powerful dragon. Each of those five attacks carries the weight of their extensive training, potentially dealing significant damage. This barrage of attacks allows them to apply pressure, create openings, and exploit weaknesses in their opponent’s defenses. It’s not just about dealing damage either; multiple attacks increase the chance of landing a critical hit, further amplifying their offensive power. This culmination of speed, precision, and raw power showcases the true potential of a high-level fighter in AD&D 2e. They have evolved from a novice warrior to a legendary hero, capable of shaping the tides of battle with their unmatched skill.
| Character Level | Class | Weapon | Attacks Per Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Fighter | Longsword | 1 |
| 13 | Fighter | Longsword | 3 |
| 9 | Ranger | Longbow | 2 |
| 9 | Monk | Unarmed | Varies (Example: 3/4 with flurry of blows) |
| 10 | Barbarian | Great Axe | 2 (More while enraged) |
| 7 | Rogue | Dagger | 1 (Plus potential backstab) |
| 12 | Mage | Spell (e.g., Fireball) | N/A (Area of Effect) |
| 20 | Fighter | Longsword | 5 |
Point of View: Number of Attacks with a Weapon in 2e
Determining the number of attacks a character can make with a weapon in a 2nd Edition (likely referring to Dungeons & Dragons or a similar tabletop RPG system) context depends heavily on the specific ruleset being used. Generally, a standard attack action allows for one attack. However, several factors can modify this. A character’s class features, such as a Fighter’s multiple attacks gained at higher levels, can significantly increase the number of attacks. Specific weapon properties, like those found on certain magical weapons, can also grant additional attacks. Furthermore, feats and abilities that provide extra attacks, like the “Dual Wielding” feat or a “Haste” spell effect, can further augment the number of attacks possible in a round.
It’s crucial to consult the specific rulebook being used for the game in question. Variations exist across different versions and interpretations of 2nd Edition rules. Understanding the interplay between these rules is vital for accurately calculating the number of attacks a character can make.
People Also Ask: How Many Actions to Attack with a Weapon 2e
Can I attack more than once per round?
Yes, it’s possible to attack more than once per round in 2e. The number of attacks is primarily determined by class features, weapon properties, feats, and spells/abilities.
How do fighters get multiple attacks?
Fighters, in many 2e systems, gain additional attacks as they level up. This progression is a core feature of the Fighter class and is typically detailed in the class description within the rulebook. Consult your specific rulebook for the exact levels at which these additional attacks are gained.
Do magic weapons grant extra attacks?
Some magic weapons indeed grant additional attacks. These extra attacks are typically part of the weapon’s special properties and are described in the weapon’s description. It’s important to note that not all magic weapons offer extra attacks; it depends on the specific weapon’s enchantments.
What feats or spells increase attacks?
Several feats and spells can increase the number of attacks a character can make. Feats such as “Dual Wielding” may allow for an off-hand attack. Spells like “Haste” often grant an additional attack during their duration. Other abilities and class features can similarly grant extra attacks. Refer to the rulebook for a comprehensive list and description of such feats, spells, and abilities.