swarm vs Large creature


Rules Questions


If a single swarm (10x10) overlaps more than one square of a Large or larger creature at the end of its turn, does it inflict its damage once per square of overlap, or just once period? And where can I find the relevant rules?


I would go based on the information regarding swarm attacks under the swarm subtype. It does not say that they harm a creature multiple times if they overlap multiple squares, it only states that it makes a swarm attack against a creature in the same squares as a swarm.

Swarm Attack:

Swarm Attack: creatures with the swarm subtype don’t make standard melee attacks. Instead, they deal automatic damage to any creature whose space they occupy at the end of their move, with no attack roll needed. Swarm attacks are not subject to a miss chance for concealment or cover. A swarm’s stat block has “swarm” in the Melee entries, with no attack bonus given.


1 person marked this as a favorite.

Swarms' damage doesn't change because of the size of the target.


Do large creatures take more damage from a fireball?


Fair enough. Thanks all.


If anything, they should take less damage if the swarm doesn't cover them entirely. But that's not the case either.

Silver Crusade RPG Superstar 2014 Top 16

1 person marked this as a favorite.
Java Man wrote:
Do large creatures take more damage from a fireball?

No, but wouldn't that be cool?


Zahir ibn Mahmoud ibn Jothan wrote:
Java Man wrote:
Do large creatures take more damage from a fireball?
No, but wouldn't that be cool?

No, as it would make colossal creatures killable by AoE spells that do a mere 2d6 damage, causing them to take up to 72d6 damage. Likewise, should a tiny creature only take 1/4 damage from AoE spells?


There are spells that inflict additional damage if a creature occupies more than one square. Ice Spears comes to mind.

They are the exception, not the rule.

Community / Forums / Pathfinder / Pathfinder First Edition / Rules Questions / swarm vs Large creature All Messageboards

Want to post a reply? Sign in.