Falling Objects

[Oryan77]

I know that bricks and column traps falling on people require an attack roll. But what if the falling object isn't a trap? Like a burning building with wooden planks falling. Is it still an attack or do you allow a relfex save instead? How do you determine the DC or the attack bonus?

I didn't see this under Falling Object rules in the DMG. If this rule is explained in the books, it would be great if someone could point me to the page. Thanks!

 

[Ender_rpm]

I'd go with a reflex save for a burning building. Its not "trying" to hurt the PC, its just that the PC happens to be there as its disintegrating..

 

[Sejs]

Treat it as a trap, basically. The bigger the area that's collapsing, the higher the DC.

A few example traps you could use the rules for that are close equivalents, starting on P70-71 of the DMG.

Falling Bricks from Ceiling - 2 hexes of falling misc small debris.
Ceiling Pendulum - for a falling beam, etc.
Camoflaged Pit Trap - weakened collapsing floor. Fall drops you to the level below. Probably use the CR 2 or 3 version.
Dropping Ceiling - for an entire room dropping on you.
Collapsing Column - self explanitory.
Built to Collapse Wall - likewise.

Also remember to use the rules for heat dangers and smoke inhalation on p303-304, for a burning building.

 

[mvincent]

I know that bricks and column traps falling on people require an attack roll. But what if the falling object isn't a trap? Like a burning building with wooden planks falling. Is it still an attack or do you allow a relfex save instead? How do you determine the DC or the attack bonus?

I didn't see this under Falling Object rules in the DMG. If this rule is explained in the books, it would be great if someone could point me to the page. Thanks!

You could use the Cave-Ins And Collapses rules