Monk's Deflect Missiles and Ranged Attacks in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition

Introduction to Deflect Missiles

In Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition, the Monk's Deflect Missiles feature (PHB, p. 73) provides a powerful defensive maneuver. This ability allows a monk to use their reaction to deflect a ranged attack in response to a hit roll. The range damage reduction offered by this feature is a vital addition to any monk’s arsenal. However, as we delve deeper into its implementation, many have questioned whether the attack still registers a hit if the damage is reduced to zero.

How Deflect Missiles Works

The Deflect Missiles ability grants a monk the option to reduce the damage of a ranged attack by up to 1d10, depending on the monk's level. If the total reduction equals or exceeds the damage dealt by the attack, the monk takes no damage. This means the attack is considered to be "successfully deflected," and the monk is not affected by it—it is effectively a miss.

For example, a monk at level 5 who uses this feature can reduce the damage of a ranged attack by up to 5 (1d10). If the damage dealt by the attack is 5 or less, the monk takes no damage, and the attack is considered a miss. The arrow, bolt, or other missile, in this case, is deflected away from the monk entirely.

Interactions with Other Abilities and Effects

Sometimes, a monk might use the Deflect Missiles feature in conjunction with another ability that requires the monk to be hit by the attack. An example would be a ranged spell or effect that triggers on a "hit." In such cases, the outcome can be nuanced, depending on the DM's interpretation and the specific abilities involved.

Case Study: Shield Spell

A good point of reference is the Shield spell (PHB, p. 247), where the wording is "if you are hit." The Shield spell provides a 5 bonus to the monk's AC, potentially causing the attack to miss. Yet, if the attack does hit, the monk is protected against taking damage because of the AC bonus.

Conversely, there are cases where a feature triggered by a hit can still function, even if the attack is deflected. An example of such a scenario is a ranged attack with an explosive tip. In this case, the explosive effect may still occur, even if the attack is deflected and the monk takes no damage. The missile is still there and does what it is programmed to do.

Heavy Armor Master Feat

A Heavy Armor Master (PHB, p. 169) allows a character to reduce non-magical weapon damage by 3. Even though the monk takes no damage, the attack is still considered to have hit. For example, if a monk with the Heavy Armor Master feat reduces the damage from a ranged attack to 0, the attack is still considered a successful hit, just without the usual damage reduction.

Arcane Archer with Grasping Arrow

Another example is an Arcane Archer who uses a Grasping or Banishing Arrow. If the monk deflects this arrow using Deflect Missiles, the arrow's effects (such as grappling the target or banishing them) do not occur. However, if the monk catches the arrow using their reaction, the effects can still take place. The DM may rule that any effects that trigger on a hit still occur, but the monk avoids taking the damage.

Game Balance and Intended Functionality

The functionality of Deflect Missiles can vary based on the DM's discretion. Often, the use of the feature is seen as a defensive measure, but it can also be an offensive tactic. For instance, a monk could strategically use the feature to avoid dangerous projectiles or to disarm an opponent by deflecting a well-aimed weapon.

From a game balance perspective, the Deflect Missiles ability should be balanced against the capabilities of other characters and the specific situation. If a monk deflects an attack, the opposing party may attempt to use a different strategy or character to deal with the monk. This can lead to creative and dynamic gameplay, as players adapt to the unexpected outcomes of their actions.

Roleplaying and Strategic Play

The Deflect Missiles ability is not only a tactical advantage but also a roleplaying opportunity. Monks can use this feature to avoid being caught up in dangerous situations or to protect allies. For example, a monk can use Deflect Missiles to ensure an ally is not hit by a ranged attack, even at the cost of the monk taking no damage themselves.

Alternatively, a monk can choose to catch a deflected projectile, adding an element of risk and drama to the game. This can be a humorous or dramatic moment, depending on the creativity of the DM and the players. For instance, a monk might catch an explosive arrow and, in catching it, may inadvertently trigger its effects before it can be thrown back or destroyed.

Conclusion

The Deflect Missiles feature in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition offers a nuanced and powerful defensive mechanism for monks. When used in conjunction with other abilities, it can add significant complexity and strategic depth to the game. Whether a monk uses Deflect Missiles purely for defense or as part of a creative tactic, it can greatly enhance both the tactical and roleplaying aspects of the game.

FAQ

Q: Can other abilities that require a hit be triggered if an attack is deflected?

A: It depends on the specific wording and the DM's interpretation. If the wording is clear that the feature requires a hit (e.g., “if you are hit”), the attack is still considered a hit, but the player may avoid taking damage. However, if the feature relies on the damage (e.g., “if you do damage”), it will not trigger unless the monk causes the target to take damage.

Q: What happens if a monk catches a deflected projectile?

A: If a monk catches a deflected projectile, the DM can rule on the specific effects, adding an element of risk and drama. This could include triggering the projectile's effects or creating humorous moments, such as a monk being stuck by a grapping arrow or disappearing for a turn.

Q: How does Deflect Missiles impact overall game balance?

A: Deflect Missiles balances the game by providing monks with an ability to protect themselves from ranged attacks. It adds a layer of defense and strategy, making monks a more versatile and impactful choice in the party. However, it is crucial to maintain fairness and consistency by treating similar situations uniformly.