Forced Movement and Shoving

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 62 views

Introduction

When it comes to combat in Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, understanding the intricacies of movement and interaction between creatures is crucial. In this article, we will delve into the scenario of shoving a creature who is climbing without a climb speed. This situation can arise in various situations, such as when a creature is attempting to climb out of a well or a pit, and an opponent tries to intervene.

Understanding Climb Speed

Before we dive into the specifics of shoving a creature who is climbing without a climb speed, it's essential to understand what climb speed means in the context of D&D 5e. Climb speed is a creature's ability to climb vertical surfaces, and it is typically measured in feet per round. Creatures with a climb speed can move up or down a vertical surface without needing to make an ability check.

Forced Movement and Shoving

When a creature is climbing without a climb speed, it is essentially making an ability check to climb. According to the D&D 5e rules, a creature can be forced to make a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check to climb a surface. If the creature fails this check, it falls. However, if the creature is being shoved by an opponent, the situation becomes more complex.

Shoving a Climbing Creature

When shoving a creature who is climbing without a climb speed, the opponent must make a Strength (Athletics) check to shove the creature. The DC for this check is 15, which is the same as the DC for the creature's climb check. If the opponent succeeds in the shove check, the creature is pushed back down the surface it was climbing.

Consequences of Shoving a Climbing Creature

If the opponent succeeds in shoving the creature, the creature falls to the ground. The creature takes 1d6 bludgeoning damage for every 10 feet it falls. This damage is in addition to any other damage the creature may take from the fall.

Example Scenario

Let's say a ghoul is climbing out of a well, and a player character tries to shove it back down. The ghoul does not have a climb speed, so it is making an ability check to climb. The player character must make a Strength (Athletics) check to shove the ghoul. If the player character succeeds in the shove check, the ghoul falls to the ground, taking 1d6 bludgeoning damage for every 10 feet it falls.

Conclusion

Shoving a creature who is climbing without a climb speed can have significant consequences. The creature may fall to the ground, taking damage in the process. It's essential for players and Dungeon Masters to understand the rules surrounding climb speed and forced movement to ensure a fun and fair combat experience.

Additional Considerations

If the creature is being shoved while it is in a precarious position, such as on a narrow ledge or a steep slope, the DM may want to consider adding additional hazards or challenges to the situation.
If the creature is being shoved by multiple opponents, the DM may want to consider using the "multiple opponents" rules to determine the outcome of the shove check.
If the creature is being shoved while it is in a state of exhaustion or other debilitating condition, the DM may want to consider applying additional penalties to the creature's ability check.

References

Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition Player's Handbook, p. 195-196
Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition Dungeon Master's Guide, p. 290-291

Final Thoughts

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored the scenario of shoving a creature who is climbing without a climb speed. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this topic.

Q: What happens if the creature is being shoved while it is in a precarious position?

A: If the creature is being shoved while it is in a precarious position, such as on a narrow ledge or a steep slope, the DM may want to consider adding additional hazards or challenges to the situation. For example, the creature may be more likely to fall or become disoriented, making it harder for it to climb or move.

Q: Can multiple opponents shove a creature who is climbing without a climb speed?

A: Yes, multiple opponents can shove a creature who is climbing without a climb speed. In this case, the DM should use the "multiple opponents" rules to determine the outcome of the shove check. Each opponent makes a separate Strength (Athletics) check, and the creature's DC for the climb check is increased by 1 for each opponent who succeeds in the shove check.

Q: What happens if the creature is being shoved while it is in a state of exhaustion or other debilitating condition?

A: If the creature is being shoved while it is in a state of exhaustion or other debilitating condition, the DM may want to consider applying additional penalties to the creature's ability check. For example, the creature may be more likely to fail the climb check or become disoriented, making it harder for it to climb or move.

Q: Can a creature who is climbing without a climb speed be forced to make a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check to climb a surface?

A: Yes, a creature who is climbing without a climb speed can be forced to make a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check to climb a surface. If the creature fails this check, it falls. However, if the creature is being shoved by an opponent, the situation becomes more complex.

Q: What happens if the creature is being shoved by an opponent who has a higher Strength score than the creature?

A: If the creature is being shoved by an opponent who has a higher Strength score than the creature, the opponent has an advantage in the shove check. The opponent's Strength score is added to their check, making it more likely for them to succeed in the shove check.

Q: Can a creature who is climbing without a climb speed be used as a makeshift ladder or step?

A: Yes, a creature who is climbing without a climb speed can be used as a makeshift ladder or step. However, the DM should consider the creature's size, strength, and agility when determining whether it can be used in this way. For example, a small creature may be more likely to be used as a makeshift ladder or step than a large creature.

Q: What happens if the creature is being shoved while it is in a confined space?

A: If the creature is being shoved while it is in a confined space, the DM may want to consider adding additional hazards or challenges to the situation. For example, the creature may be more likely to become trapped or disoriented, making it harder for it to climb or move.

Conclusion

Shoving a creature who is climbing without a climb speed can be a complex and nuanced situation. By understanding the rules surrounding climb speed and forced movement, players and Dungeon Masters can create a more immersive and engaging combat experience. Remember to always consult the official D&D 5e rules and to use your best judgment when determining the outcome of a shove check.

Additional Considerations

When determining the outcome of a shove check, the DM should consider the creature's size, strength, and agility.
The DM should also consider the environment and any hazards or challenges that may be present.
Players and Dungeon Masters should always consult the official D&D 5e rules and use their best judgment when determining the outcome of a shove check.

References

Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition Player's Handbook, p. 195-196
Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition Dungeon Master's Guide, p. 290-291