Readying vs. Stilled, Silenced Spell

[KarinsDad]

Actually as i understand it, and the point we seem to differ on, is that he does not have to specify THE WIZARD but that it can be "first enemy spellcaster" if he wishes to interrupt any of their spells, not just one particular guys spell.

I think the DMG (somewhere around page 66 or so, forget exactly) says something about the DM being within his rights to have the player specify which target for a readied action.

Of course, this is DM dependent.

I personally play that you have to target something (the first creature through a door, a specific creature, a specific area for an area effect spell, etc.).

Otherwise, you get into extremely strange things like what happened in one of my games.


PC has a Wand of Dispel Magic. Demon moves away down the corridor (and unknown to the PC, teleports behind the PC). PC declares a readied action to use the Wand if the Demon comes back and casts. Demon casts behind the PC and PC dispels the magic because although he was concentrating on the corridor where he last saw the Demon, the readied rules in the PHB do not take into account specific areas or targets (like the DMG says you can do).


Now, I know you (Petrosian) like skill rolls or such in these types of circumstances. Maybe some form of reaction roll by the PC to not be surprised. To each their own. Personally, I dislike the concept of readying an action at all (I can partial charge 30 feet before someone can cast a Feather Fall spell. Hmmmm.).

 

[kreynolds]

I think the DMG (somewhere around page 66 or so, forget exactly) says something about the DM being within his rights to have the player specify which target for a readied action.

Of course, this is DM dependent.

I personally play that you have to target something (the first creature through a door, a specific creature, a specific area for an area effect spell, etc.).

Otherwise, you get into extremely strange things like what happened in one of my games.

Booya! I love it! I prefer my players to try and be specific when they ready actions. Mostly because if we do end up in a strange situation, its my call what happens and I know they would rather it be up to them.