Dexterity checks in combat could be actually Athletics or Acrobatics checks. And some classes or feats could give you an advantage for that check. This would create an interesting space for optimalizations.
I really like the idea.
I think that "Prone" could really be related to Athletics (Strengh) while "Flip Side" could be related to Acrobatics (Dext).
That would lead to more tactical possibilities especially for melee characters. Actually the main feature they all use in the game is "jump/disengage" and it's annoying/limited as well as being visually ridiculous.
With such bonus action they'll have more possibilities when they're engaged :
- Accept the AOOs and move to use their action + bonus action
- Use the bonus action Prone, trying to have a bonus (to be determined) using their strenght but with the risk of having a malus (to be determined) and use their action
- Use the bonus action Flip Side, trying to have a bonus (to be determined) using their dexterity but with the risk of having a malus (to be determined) and use their action
- Use their action in their actual position and any other bonus action (potion, feature,...)
I really think it could be way more tactical and enjoyable to play a melee character without this feeling that you're cheesing.
The modifications are good, not so sure about the new bonus actions. Maybe some generic very minor bonus action combat moves would be fine.
Bonus Action: Feint? Sleight of Hand Check vs Perception check to gain Advantage on your next attack.
Bonus Action: Reckless? +2 attack, -4 AC.
Bonus Action: Defensive? +2 AC, -4 attack
But also, the magical heal from "Help" needs to go away. The situation where an enemy just repeatedly knocks someone out and you "help" them back up in an endless loop is ridiculous. That's what healing potions and healing spells are for. Having to use one of those needs to be a requirement to bring a downed character back in the fight.
Shoving something prone needs to simply be a variation of the Shove we already have. Except it needs to be an attack action.
About such bonuses I'm not sure because it's an open door to everything like "stances" for everyone. I think that D&D manage such sort of stance pretty well.
According to me the problem with combat is the power of a few action/bonus action. The game is completely balanced arround those few actions so it's tactical value became very limited.
Actually the game has absolutely no consequences if you use them and that's a part of their power.
I'm not sure the game should add tons of new action/bonus action but we have to find a good balance and a good alternative to the jump.
We also have to keep the backstab bonus in mind because that's totally related. I think I wouldn't be against it if it was part of something that could have real consequences.
About "Help", I agree that it looks sometimes really ridiculous. You're right I'll write in the first post that we should be able to use it but only with a scroll or healing potion. I like that suggestion.
