Partial action and the 5-foot step.

[Wylan]

I am sure this has been covered here but I can't use the search feature, so here goes.

We have a problem with partial actions in the group I play with on Fridays. Everyone seems to think a 5-ft. step is part of a partial action. I say it is a move action, which you are only entitled to one move per round, unless you are a Dragon with the Flyby feat.

Ex: Hasted fighter, one extra partial action. Move 10 ft, one attack (normal), an extra attack because of haste (extra partial action), and a 5-ft step (part of the partial action).

This is the way everyone thinks it works.

I think it works this way.

Move 10 ft, one attack (normal), an extra attack because of haste (extra partial action), and no 5-ft step (because you already moved).

 

[0-hr]

You can only do one free 5ft step per round, regardless of haste. And you can only do this if you did no other movement (again, regardless of haste).

 

[Wylan]

Eliminate haste, a wizard can't move 10 ft, cast one spell (partial action), and then take a 5-ft step (part of the partial action). Correct?

The partial action only allows a 5-ft, it is not part of it. Right?

I just want to fully understand this. It is not directly addressed in any of the books.

 

[Xeoble]

A wizard cannot move 10 ft, cast one spell (partial action), and then take a 5-ft step. That statement is correct.

A fighter can take a full attack action and get a 5-ft step (no other move)

You can take a move-equivalent action as a partial action, there is no movement "included" in a partial action

 

[Wylan]

Thanks, now I need to convice my group.

 

[Dr. NRG]

The most convincing argument I've heard on this, and what eventually persuaded our group to go with this interpretation, is that you get one 5-foot step per round, not one per action. This covers all sorts of eventualities, including haste.

Getting around this limitation requires something like spring attack or shot on the run that allows you to split up your movement. Even then, you still don't get an extra "free" 5-foot step, you just get to move before and after taking a specific action.

 

[kreynolds]

Thanks, now I need to convice my group.

Maybe a past reply from the Sage on this will help...

If I am hasted, can I take a 5ft step as part of my normal action and then another one as part of my hasted (partial) action?

No. You are only allowed one 5 ft-step per turn, and then only if you take no other movement actions.

...and then again, maybe not.

 

[AuraSeer]

The easiest way to think of the rule: If your entire movement in the round is 5 feet, you may take it as a 5' Step. A Step works like a free action, and does not draw an AoO.

It's irrelevant whether your action is standard or partial. If you are forced to take a partial action-- for instance, if you are under the influence of a Slow spell-- you may still take a 5' Step, as long as you take no other movement.

Haste is also irrelevant, because the 5' limit applies for the entire round. If you take a Step, you may take it as either as part of your standard action or your partial action. Either way, it must be the only movement you take in the entire round.

You may not ever take more than one 5' Step in a single round.

 

[Wylan]

Actually, the Spring Attack and Shot on the run are considered one move action and one attack action. So you are actually running by your opponent, slashing/piercing/shooting as you continue your one fluid movement. You do not actually stop to make the attack action. It is done while you are moving. Think of running by someone and slashing with your longsword as you go by. A guy in combat shooting his weapon as he runs for cover, he doesn't stop to aim he just shoots at something. The Dragons Flyby feat actually lets him stop, attack or use a partial action, and then move on.

These feats are also the argument of my group about an extra move. So I had to study them also.

 

[Wylan]

kreynolds,

Is there a place where all the Sage questions and answers are posted?

Thanks for everyones replies.