Ability Focus Feat Prerequisite FAQ Request.

[BigDTBone]

What qualifies as a "special attack" for the prerequisite for Ability Focus?

[blahpers]

Since it's a Bestiary feat, the answer is "whatever your GM allows".

[BigDTBone]

blahpers wrote:

Since it's a Bestiary feat, the answer is "whatever your GM allows".

If that's the answer then so be it. As a GM I would like something a bit more conclusive

[Victor Zajic]

The list you want doesn't exist. Basically anything that would be listed as a special attack in a monster statblock that requires a DC save would count.

Non monster wise, things like Stunning Fist often are allowed to work with it. It's an attack, it's special, and it requires a save. I would save no to something like spellcasting, though

[BigDTBone]

Actually, I don't want a list. I would love a general rule that could be followed under any circumstance, including new abilities in new products. But, I'll take what I can get.

[Xaratherus]

As a thought, the PRD's section on Universal Monster Rules has a huge list of monster abilities, and many of them state whether or not they might appear in the Special Attacks section of a stat block.

Check here. I would say this is a good jumping-off point as a GM: Is the ability similar to something on this list? Then it might be a good candidate for Ability Focus.

[mplindustries]

I think the best rule of thumb is:
Any ability with a DC that isn't a spell.