Flank & Rear Attacks

Flank and rear attacks are strategic combat manoeuvres employed in melee, giving some combatants an advantage over defenders. A "flank" attack takes place when the attacker positions themselves to the side and rear of the defender; a "rear" attack occurs when the assailant directly positions themselves behind the defending forces, catching them off guard.

In the example shown, Embla's position is currently in front of Vlad. However, were she located in hexes 0303 or 0402, her position relative to Vlad would be a flank attack, giving her +1 to hit when rolling as an attacker. If she were situated in hex 0403, her position would constitute a rear attack, giving her +2 to hit.

Strategy and Position:

Strategy

Flank and rear attacks encourage players to think strategically about their position during a battle, specifically how to avoid having the enemy encircle them and force rear attacks, while attempting to encircle the enemy. Combatants who get separated from the party's main body can find themselves quickly overwhelmed, while the enemy surrounds them and receives benefits to hit. As well, individuals who are cut off cannot bring aid to their friends, who themselves are cut off by the loss of companions. For these reasons, players must always be aware that any movement during combat is vital in retaining the party's defensive integrity.

Rules like this incentivise teamwork, smart movement and tactical planning to gain the upper hand over opponents. These concepts also add depth to combat scenarios, as players must not only consider the actions they take but also the place the occupy in the battlefield.

See also,
Attacking in Combat
Melee