How to Calculate Unarmed Strike Damage in D&D 5e Underwater

Unarmed strikes are a unique aspect of Dungeons and Dragons, allowing characters to deal damage without using weapons. In this article, we'll explore how to calculate unarmed strike damage in D&D 5e underwater.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that unarmed strikes deal bludgeoning damage. For example, if your Strength modifier is +2, your unarmed strike will deal 3 bludgeoning damage on hit. You do not add your proficiency bonus to an unarmed strike's damage. To calculate unarmed strike damage, you simply add 1 to your Strength modifier.

The calculation process involves rolling a d20 and adding your Strength modifier and proficiency bonus. For instance, if your Strength modifier is +2 and your proficiency bonus is +3, the result of your unarmed strike attack roll would be d20 + 2 + 3.

All creatures are proficient in unarmed strikes, making it a versatile and accessible option for characters. However, the Monk class relies heavily on unarmed strikes, which may impact their effectiveness in combat.

New Unarmed Strike Rules From Unearthed Arcana 2022: Character Origins

In recent updates to Unearthed Arcana, changes have been hinted at regarding unarmed strikes. This has led some players to wonder about the future of unarmed strikes in D&D 5e.

How Do You Calculate Unarmed Strike Damage in 5e?

To calculate unarmed strike damage, you need to add 1 to your Strength modifier. If the result matches or exceeds the target's AC, the attack lands. Any damage calculation that would result in a negative value (after applying all relevant modifiers) actually results in 0 damage.

It's worth noting that with a penalty, it is possible to deal 0 damage, but never negative damage. This means you can never deal 'negative damage.' If you have a negative Str mod, the result of that calculation may even be negative.

The attack roll for an unarmed strike is (d20 + Str + proficiency bonus). You are proficient with your unarmed strikes. On a hit, an unarmed strike deals bludgeoning damage equal to 1 + your Strength modifier.

In conclusion, calculating unarmed strike damage in D&D 5e underwater involves adding 1 to your Strength modifier and rolling a d20, taking into account your proficiency bonus and the target's AC. While unarmed strikes may not be the optimal choice in every situation, they offer an exciting way for characters to engage with combat without relying on weapons or spells.

Unarmed strike 5e underwater