[RPG] How does one spread attack damage across low hit point creatures with a level 3 rogue

combatdamagednd-5e

We are looking at an encounter where a dozen or more 2 hit point creatures may be attacking a party of max level 3.

Assuming as a DM we decide against using the “Cleaving through Creatures” optional rule (DMG p.272) – what other ways might a Level 3 rogue maximize their attacks or area of effect (AoE) damage?

We are wondering if dual wielding daggers, throwing knives, or some other approach to using weapons or skills might be effective for spreading damage. For example, it seems as if burning oil could be effective in this situation (depending upon the spread of the opponents.) Though not technically damage, sleep spells might also be effective. 3rd level Moon Druids might turn into a Giant Hyena to get Rampage giving them an additional attack if they kill one creature in a round. Mage’s Burning Hands gives AoE. These are some examples, but perhaps there are other options that are even better for this particular class?

What are the maximum number of attacks or AoE damage that a rogue could achieve at level 3? In other words, what are the ways in which this low level class can spread their damage to be “thin and wide”?

(Note: we have edited this to be class specific as the original was tagged as too broad and put on Hold so couldn’t be answered. Variation questions for other classes have been added.)

Best Answer

Caltrops seem like a good solution:

As an action, you can spread a single bag of caltrops to cover a 5-foot-square area. Any creature that enters the area must succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw or stop moving and take 1 piercing damage. Until the creature regains at least 1 hit point, its walking speed is reduced by 10 feet. A creature moving through the area at half speed doesn't need to make the saving throw.

  • At 1gp per bag, a level 3 party should likely be able to afford a fair number of these
  • Since caltrops don't list a condition in which they stop being effective (unlike burning oil), they will hit every creature walking through their space
  • If you can get a good choke point set up (don't know the environment so hard to know what your options are there) and throw down a few bags, you can potentially kill every 2hp creature before it even gets to you
  • Maybe drop an oil in the space right in front of you and drop a torch on it if anything gets through the caltrop field
  • Not sure what 2hp creatures are involved but this assumes they aren't flying (although RAW, caltrops do not specify that creatures must be walking, not flying, to be affected)
  • Even if they choose to walk half-speed (which I wouldn't think something with 2hp would have the wherewithal to consider), that gives you more time to mow them down with darts or your ranged weapon of choice
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