Is there a DM Obligation for PC Abilities?

[lowkey13]

*Deleted by user*

 

[Sacrosanct]

#1, but for a limited time. After reminding one of my long term players over and over to add modifiers and use sneak attack and cunning action, eventually I just stopped. That went on for more than a year. I’d have more sympathy if he bothered to open his PHB once between sessions to learn and remind himself what his class abilities were.

 

[Umbran]

Probably situation dependent.

When I was running a game for 13-year-olds who had never played before, you bet I was reminding them about what was possible. I'd have been doing them (and their continuing hobby) a great disservice if I had not.

On the other hand, there tables that are hardcore into the tactical wargame where that'd be entirely inappropriate.

 

[Flexor the Mighty!]

I have too much to keep track of to keep track of when a player should use his abilities.

If you are playing pay attention and run your PC.

 

[tetrasodium]

You can only do so much. I once had a moon druid PC using the cr1 bear until level 10 when I asked "um... you just wildshaped, how did that attack kill your bear in one hit?" when that happened. Then around level 15 someone asked why they didn't use anything other than the CR2 cave/polar bear. This player in a later campaign was level 5-6 when someone asked them what barbarian path they took. Level up happens by milestone (almost always) at the table with me reminding people to check their class for anything new they get or old that changes at this new level.....

edit: There should be a good faith option that acknowledges that sometimes the situation is hopeless in the poll

 

[lowkey13]

*Deleted by user*

 

[Horwath]

1 then 2 for new players, 3 otherwise

 

[jgsugden]

D&D is an RPG, a role playing games. Characters play a role in a story. The DM should administer the game so as to tell the best story with the players.

If a character would not miss out on using the ability, the player should assist the player in being aware it is an option. If the character might miss out on it, then there is no reason for the DM to intercede.

If it is something passive that the character does not need to decide to use, such as Danger Sense, then the reminder should be given. If ti is something that is partially active, such as Uncanny Dodge, then it is a judgment call. If it is something active that needs to be decided, such as when the DM notes the enemies are perfectly lined up for a Lightning Bolt, then no reminder is necessary - and perhaps is overstepping to offer.

 

[iserith]

The DM has no obligation to do anything here in my view. This goes to player skill and that's on the player to invest time and effort in if he or she wants. Players will tend to be more successful in the game if their work on improving their skills, so there's an incentive for them to try. The other players at the table who benefit from better player skills within the group also have an incentive to help out. The DM needn't do anything other than help when asked.

 

[Gradine]

I voted for the assassin's creed, but I'm in the "DM is the players' cheerleader" camp, and also the "DM should remind the player what their characters know" camp