Damage mechanics: Difference between revisions

A '''damage source''' could be described as what initializes the damage. Examples include striking a target with your [[Weapons|weapon]], a [[Spells|spell]], or thrown items such as an {{SmItemIcon|Alchemist's Fire}}. Damage sources often require the use of an action (e.g. throwing an object such as a [[Grenades|grenade]]), bonus action (e.g. making an attack with your offhand weapon while dual wielding), or reaction (e.g. the {{SAI|Hellish Rebuke}} spell).

A '''damage rider''' is something which adds additional damage onto the damage source. It can only be present in the event there is an applicable damage source for it to "ride along" with, hence the name of a damage rider. Examples of damage riders include the {{SAI|Hex}} spell adding damage to the damage from a Warlock's {{SAI|Eldritch Blast}} or weapon attacks, [[coatings]] applied to weapons providing additional damage to a weapon attack, a 6th level {{Class|Draconic Bloodline}} applying their [[Elemental Affinity: Damage|elemental affinity]] to a spell of the appropriate [[Damage Types|damage type]], or a raging{{Class|Barbarian|25}} adding rage damage to their weapon attacks. Many damage riders are gained from passives or other forms of buffs. Any eligible damage riders from a damaging effect will be applied to a damage source which is a part of that damaging effect.