Grappling & Shoving

To Grapple:

• Use the Attack action to make a grapple attempt
• Replaces one of your attacks (if you have Extra Attack)
• Target must be no more than one size larger than you
• You need a free hand

The Contest:

• Your Athletics check vs. target's Athletics OR Acrobatics (their choice)
• If you win, the target is grappled

The Grappled Condition:

• Target's speed becomes 0
• No other penalties
• You can move at half speed, dragging the target
• Your attacks against them are NOT at advantage (unless you also shove them prone)

To Shove:

• Use the Attack action to make a shove attempt
• Replaces one of your attacks (if you have Extra Attack)
• Target must be no more than one size larger than you

Choose One Effect:

• Push target 5 feet away from you
• Knock target prone

The Contest:

• Your Athletics check vs. target's Athletics OR Acrobatics
• If you win, the shove effect happens

The Classic Combo:

1. Grapple the target (first attack)
2. Shove them prone (second attack with Extra Attack)

Why This Is Powerful:

• Prone: Attacks from within 5 feet have advantage
• Grappled: Speed 0, so they can't stand up!
• They're stuck on the ground while you and allies pummel them

Requirements:

• Extra Attack (or bonus action grapple via Grappler feat)
• Good Athletics modifier
• Strength-based character

To Escape:

• Use your action to attempt escape
• Your Athletics OR Acrobatics vs. grappler's Athletics
• If you win, you escape (no longer grappled)

Other Ways to End Grapple:

• Grappler is incapacitated
• You're moved out of reach by an effect (not your own movement)
• Teleportation spells
• Grappler chooses to release you