What Checks Can Familiars Help with in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition

In Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition, familiars play a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of their spellcasting masters. They can assist in several types of checks and actions, offering valuable support in various scenarios. Let's explore how these familiar creatures can be beneficial.

Enhancing Perception Checks

Familiars can utilize their own senses to make Perception checks. This feature allows them to scout ahead or observe areas from different vantage points, providing their masters with crucial information about their surroundings. For instance, a bird familiar might spot a concealed enemy or notice a trap that the caster did not initially perceive.

Assisting with Stealth Checks

Familiars can help with Stealth checks, particularly if they are small and have abilities that make them adept at sneaking into tight spaces or remaining hidden. A tiny familiar like a mouse or bat can effectively gather information without being detected. The unique size and mobility of these creatures make them ideal for such tasks, often providing valuable intelligence that the caster might not be able to acquire on their own.

Assisting in Investigation Checks

Familiars can also assist in Investigation checks. They can help the spellcaster by searching for clues or examining objects from their vantage point. A familiar's presence can offer a different perspective or access areas that the caster may not be able to reach. For example, a snake familiar might be able to crawl through narrow crevices to retrieve a key or examine an object that is within its reach but not the caster's.

Combat Assistance

While familiars are not directly involved in combat checks, they can provide indirect support by performing actions that aid the caster in battle. They can deliver spells with a range of touch, allowing the caster to cast spells from a distance. This is particularly useful for spells that require concentration or those that would put the caster in danger. Familiars can also serve as decoys, drawing attention away from the caster or their allies during a battle.

Spellcasting and Communication

Familiars can be instrumental in spellcasting, especially if the spell requires a touch range. They can deliver these spells, ensuring that the caster remains safe and focused on the battle. Moreover, familiars can communicate simple ideas and emotions to their masters, aiding in social encounters or negotiations. This can be a valuable asset in complex situations where the master needs to interact with others without being directly involved.

Conclusion

Familiars are versatile companions in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition, offering support in various ways. From enhancing perception and stealth to assisting in combat and spellcasting, their unique abilities can significantly contribute to a party's effectiveness in exploration and combat scenarios. While there are limitations to what familiars can do, their presence is invaluable in many situations.