Hiding (p. 177). The DM decides when
circumstances are appropriate for hiding.
Also, the question isn’t whether a creature
can see you when you’re hiding. The question
is whether it can see you clearly.
Looks like it's now possible to attempt the Hide action while being observed (which was previously impossible).
This doesnt change the Halfling or WE ability at all (both abilities only change what you can hide behind; neither ability changes the restriction of not being able to hide while being observed).
So you can how hide when a creature 'cant see you clearly' instead of only being able to hide when you cant be seen at all.
With this errata its much more likely that 'in combat' hiding is now a thing. Any time you can convince the DM (or he otherwise rules) that the other creatures in combat 'cant see you clearly' you can use your action (or bonus action for Rogues) to attempt the Hide action.
WE and Halflings simply gain the advantage that (assuming the DM agree's that they 'cant be seen clearly') WE's and Halflings can then attempt to hide behind natural concealment and medium creatures respectively; things that other races cant Hide behind at all.
Hiding goes:
- Step 1: Ask DM if you can be clearly seen from the creature or creatures you want to be hidden from. If the answer is 'No' proceed to step 2.
- Step 2: Is there cover around for you to hide behind? For most creatures that's actual cover (or total concealment). For Wood elves you can add in light natural concealment, and for Halflings you can add any Medium and larger creatures nearby. For peeps with the Skulker feat, you can add any light concealment.
- Step 3: Move to cover (remaining being unable to be seen clearly as you move - i.e. not moving in the open) and make a Stealth check to Hide once you reach your eligible cover or concealment as either an action (or if you are a Rogue 2) a bonus action. The DC is the passive perception of people that couldnt see you clearly at the start of your turn.
Looks pretty straightforward. Whats the issue?