Quote:
Originally Posted by Edges
I think I once read Kromm say that combat maneuvers were obvious to observers. So, for example, if someone does an All-out-Attack, you know he won't have defenses next turn. And if someone is using Evaluate on you, know know that he probably intends on attacking you.
But I would (and have) let people attacking from stealth build up an Evaluate before attacking from the shadows.
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Both of the above reflect my views.
In general, combat maneuvers – being the sorts of quick expedients that fit into one-second combat turns – are
obvious. Evaluate means you're staring down your subject like a hungry wolf, daring him to make the first move as you observe his stance and guard. It isn't subtle; it isn't
meant to be subtle.
On the other hand, it's absolutely fair to let attacks from the shadows benefit from Evaluate. That said, since Evaluate and Telegraphic Attack bonuses don't stack, why would you ever do this? You could lurk for three seconds, possibly be detected in that time, and then strike at +3 for Evaluate on the fourth second . . . or you could strike at +4 for Telegraphic Attack, all in one second. If you've successfully used Stealth, then you'll be making a surprise attack against which the target will get no defense anyway, so the +2 to the victim's defense for Telegraphic Attack is totally irrelevant, whereas the extra +1 to hit and the time saved by not hanging around for an extra three seconds won't be.
Finally, remember the Dirty Fighting perk! You get +1 to any feint or attack made before combat begins, as a "sucker punch." The
Action and
Dungeon Fantasy series allow up to three levels of this. It amounts to being very good at evaluating a target out of combat, and then surprising him with a well-aimed attack. I also allow PCs who enter combat abruptly to claim this bonus on the turn they appear (e.g., a door opens and there's the PC, or the PC enters the battle from "off map" and announces his presence with a flying jump kick).