I want to build an encounter where my PCs (probably) on foot have to face a squad of mounted guards. A warhorse has its own set of stats, but with a rider can basically only move. Does riding a warhorse in combat confer any advantage to the rider?
Presumably a superior movement rate - but no, there are not a lot of benefits gained just by being mounted.
You may want to include some or all of the features of the mounted combatant feat, or have the mount act independently (and thus attack) if you are looking to make the encounter more dangerous beyond facing an opponent with superior mobility.
It is important to note that the NPC guards, as monsters, do NOT have to adhere to the same rules that player characters do, as as the DM you are able to add some features of that feat as you see fit, including:
Having advantage on melee attacks against unmounted characters.
Being able to force attacks to be made against the rider rather than the mount.
You could optionally allow attacks to inflict additional damage if the mount moves greater than 20 feet.
Also note that the Warhorse has a trampling charge ability.
I've found the inherent best advantage is the mobility granted by the mount. Especially when it Disengages and neither the mount or rider provokes from movement. Rider's foes would have to ready actions or some other method of striking them (ranged weapons) if the rider+mount are just going to Disengage, move and attack, and continue movement away from the melee.
I want to build an encounter where my PCs (probably) on foot have to face a squad of mounted guards. A warhorse has its own set of stats, but with a rider can basically only move. Does riding a warhorse in combat confer any advantage to the rider?
The main advantage when controlling a mount is that you have one of the following actions for free: Dash, Disengage or Dodge.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/compendium/rules/phb/combat#MountedCombat
Presumably a superior movement rate - but no, there are not a lot of benefits gained just by being mounted.
You may want to include some or all of the features of the mounted combatant feat, or have the mount act independently (and thus attack) if you are looking to make the encounter more dangerous beyond facing an opponent with superior mobility.
-
View User Profile
-
View Posts
-
Send Message
D&D Beyond FoundersAs others have said, it's mostly about mobility.
The real benefits of mounted combat are unlocked via the Mounted Combatant feat.
It is important to note that the NPC guards, as monsters, do NOT have to adhere to the same rules that player characters do, as as the DM you are able to add some features of that feat as you see fit, including:
Also note that the Warhorse has a trampling charge ability.
Pun-loving nerd | Faith Elisabeth Lilley | She/Her/Hers | Profile art by Becca Golins
If you need help with homebrew, please post on the homebrew forums, where multiple staff and moderators can read your post and help you!
"We got this, no problem! I'll take the twenty on the left - you guys handle the one on the right!"🔊
I've found the inherent best advantage is the mobility granted by the mount. Especially when it Disengages and neither the mount or rider provokes from movement. Rider's foes would have to ready actions or some other method of striking them (ranged weapons) if the rider+mount are just going to Disengage, move and attack, and continue movement away from the melee.
Besides mobility benefits, being mounted allows you to use a lance one-handed.
The Forum Infestation (TM)
Thanks everyone. I don't want to OP these NPCs, my party is only 2nd level. All handy advice.