Summon Monster

[Atalius]

When you cast Summon Monster, do you get to control it or does your GM have control over it?

[sunblaze31]

You have the control. But be aware that especially with animals you might not be able to give them more complex maneuvers.

"Fight the nearest creature or the one I point at" works without language even with animals. But special attacks and combat maneuvers usally require communication. Pay attention what languages the creature speaks and if you can as well.

[Atalius]

Was thinking a Dino or a dire tiger using grab with there attack would that be pretty much automatic or special communication needed? Sounds instinctual

[sunblaze31]

Well THAT is indeed subject to your GM.
While you have a point it does sound fair for an animal that specializes in an attack like that, make sure to clarify that with your GM!

[Gallant Armor]

There is no reason for a creature not to use grab, so they would do so by default.

[blahpers]

Note that if the creature cannot understand your orders, it simply fights your opponents to the best of its ability. In such an instance, the GM may wish to take control, or they may just let the player do it anyway and trust that the player won't overplay a fire beetle's tactical ability.

A creature that has grab by default is going to be familiar with it, naturally.

[blahpers]

Also note that, worst case, if it's a summon animal that can't understand you, you can always use Handle Animal to push it into doing something more specific. It's a bit of a last resort method, though--most of the time, the easiest way to get a summoned critter to attack the enemy you want is to summon it close to that enemy.

[Zarius]

If the creature would Grab as it's normal attack, then it Grabbing is what it SHOULD unless you can command it otherwise. But specifying the use of it to your GM never hurts.