Incorporeal

Post/Author/DateTimePost
#1

El_Condoro

May 16, 2015 15:57:08

Can characters move through incorporeal creatures, such as specters, during their move? Certainly, the specter can move through them.

 

The PHB says, "you can move through a hostile creature's space only if the creature is at least two sizes larger or smaller than you." (p. 191)

 

The rule is clear but does it apply to incorporeal creatures?

#2

jaelis

May 16, 2015 16:31:20

Apparently not. Not sure if I'd allow it... most incorporeal creatures seem to have some ability to manifest physically... nothing suggests they can't manipulate objects, and some of them have physical attacks. And of course they aren't entirely immune to weapon damage. So I'd probably say they normally have enough physical presence to keep you out of their space if they want.

#3

mrpopstar

May 16, 2015 16:52:54

Yeah, seems as though incorporeal creatures have the ability to move through you, but you don't have the ability to move through them.

 

(The idea of moving through an incorporeal creature gives me the creeps! #shudder)

#4

Orethalion

May 16, 2015 17:09:58

I would rule against it.  When you look at the incorporeal movement ability, if a ghost or banshee stops inside a solid object, they take damage.  That heavily implies that they are only fully incorporeal while moving or when they use the ability.  On the PCs turn they would not be in that state.

#5

AaronOfBarbaria

May 17, 2015 1:06:28

Think of an incorporeal creature as being selective about how solid it is - if it wants to pass through you or a wall, it can, but just like it can reach out and physically touch you or wield a sword (you may note there is no "ghost touch" enchantment, nor any need for one called out by the rules) it can prevent you from passing through it (unless you have some ability that allow otherwise, at least).

#6

Rya.Reisender

May 17, 2015 3:49:55

It could probably kill you by becoming physical while you move through it! Just don't do it.

#7

El_Condoro

May 17, 2015 4:05:05

OK, those rationales work for me. Thanks.