The fact remains that it is 100% RAW completely legal to take as many 5 foot steps as you like, multiply times 1.5 and that's how far you went.
Please note that "5' Step" is a specific game term. It is the only move allowed in any round it is used.
If you mean "move diagonally 5'", it actually costs 50% more (round down). That second diagonal costs 10' of movement.
the problem is that it IS legal to move 7.5 feet in one turn with a 5 foot step, and as long as for the rest of combat you do not move diagonal again, you never have to pay for it.
by taking a diagonal five foot step you Gain maneuvering ability that your character Absolutely Does Not have, and you get away with it.
I hate when the rules state things that are hopelessly exploited...
They can move diagonally 5', and strait for the rest, but that is still a standard move which might provoke if you threaten any square used. This rule applies to everyone equally, so it is balanced. The AoO occurs in the threatened square, so no reach issue.
I played in Multiple matches where I literally could not win because someone 5 foot stepped diagonal and fled.
I got stunned for one round. They used that step, and retreated.
5' Step + Move is not legal. 5' Diagonal + more straight is OK, and can provoke AoO. Stunning an opponent and fleeing is a valid tactic. One you can use if you want. If your speed is greater than theirs, you can catch up.
I as a melee character couldn't ever reach them. Ten feet away?? Trip attack retreat repeat.
"It hurts when I hit my head against this wall."
Why play his game? If your #1 tactic fails, try #2, not a repeat of #1.
My understanding of the positioning:
Before:
_ _ _
F T _
_ _ _
After:
_ _ _
F _ _
_ _ T
F = Fighter
T = Tripper
/cevah