D&D 5E Players rolling defense in 5e

[robus]

Has anyone adapted the homebrew method of players rolling defense against NPC attacks (instead of having the DM roll attacks) to 5e? If yes, how is it working out? And what adjustments did you need to make it balanced?

 

[pukunui]

I haven't tried it myself, but WotC included some rules for it in an Unearthed Arcana article. Check it out.

 

[robus]

Awesome, thanks!

 

[Scorpio616]

I recommend the DM still rolling opponent's saves. It will save grief once Legendary Resistance starts being a factor.

 

[FormerlyHemlock]

Has anyone adapted the homebrew method of players rolling defense against NPC attacks (instead of having the DM roll attacks) to 5e? If yes, how is it working out? And what adjustments did you need to make it balanced?

Interesting idea. Seems easy enough to homebrew: just invert the attack roll. Mathematically it's equivalent.

I'll ask my players if they want to try this.

Edit: WOTC messed up on their math though. In order to avoid changing game balance--in order to make it mathematically equivalent to the regular method--DCs should be to-hit +12 and saving throw bonus +14, respectively. WOTC has it as to-hit +11 and saving throw bonus +11, which make defense easier and spells more potent. That's wrong.