Mobility Scenario...

[Wolffenjugend]

OK, I just thought of this earlier today. Here's the scenario:

Character X has mobility and is mid-level.

Character Y is a tough fighter-type and is high-level.

X and Y are engaged in melee within 5 feet of each other. Neither are using a reach weapon.

Wouldn't it be a tactical advantage for X to attack once and then move, every round if possible?

Here's why. The higher-lvl Y probably has 3-4 attacks per round (let's say 3). If X sticks around and does a full attack (for say 2 attacks per round), he has to endure 3 attacks from Y. But if X attacks once and then moves, he only endures 2 attacks from Y (1 AoO and potentially 1 regular attack when Y follows/charges). On top of that, X will have a better AC by 4 vs. one of the two attacks.

X only gets 1 attack but only suffers 2 (instead of 3) and gets a +4 AC bonus vs. one of the attacks. Seems like a no-brainer...

Thoughts?

 

[kwiqsilver]

Or just use spring attack or tumble and avoid the AoO entirely.
The second attack from the fighter toe-to-toe will be at -5 (versus +4 AC on the AoO). And the third attack will be at -10. So if the third attack is unlikely to hit, it's better to stay up and get multiple attacks.
Of course in either case, unless the lower level fighter has some serious advantages in AC, magic items, a strategic advantage, or something else to make up for the hit point and BAB discrepancy.

 

[Wolffenjugend]

Ahh, good point. The Y might get only two attacks, but they'll be at his full attack bonus.