[RPG] Does Mirror Image enable Sneak Attack

dnd-5esneak-attackspells

This question is related to this other question and builds on that.

From some of the answer provided in the linked question, it would seem that the RAI for proccing sneak attack is that the enemy perceives multiple threats and it has to split the attention among them.

Silent Image's limitation is that it's not moving if not using the caster action, so the Arcane Trickster controlling it can't do both the illusion movement to be perceived as a threat AND the attack action, but it is reasonable if the illusion is moved by someone else.

But what about Mirror Images? Those move

Until the spell ends, the duplicates move with you and mimic your actions, shifting position so it's impossible to track which image is real.

just like you, so on your attack they also attack, and are perceived as a threat.

So my question is: can I enable sneak attack using my Arcane Trickster mirror images? I'd argue for a RAW no, but I'd like to hear other opinions.

Best Answer

No, mirror images aren't enemy creatures

Sneak attack requires "another enemy". Mirror images aren't enemies different from you; they're in your space, and they "move with you", so they don't present additional threats.

In general, there's no strict definition of "enemy" provided in the PHB, but it's often used interchangeably with "hostile creature". So, as you continue to find ways to enable Sneak Attack for your Arcane Trickster, consider the Sneak Attack rule to be:

You don’t need advantage on the attack roll if another creature hostile to the target is within 5 feet of it, that creature isn’t incapacitated, and you don’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.

Mirror images aren't hostile creatures, so this won't work. RAI for allowing sneak attacks without advantage when an enemy is adjacent to the target is clearly that sneak attacks are facilitated by the rogue supplementing other party members in combat, so low-level illusions don't cut it. Note that you don't have to be in melee; you can stand back and snipe with missile weapons while your ally gets in close.

(As a general suggestion, I would work on using your Arcane Trickster's spells to buff yourself/teammates and make ranged sneak attacks rather than trying to make melee sneak attacks work without teammates to help you).