When a weapon, spell, ability, item, or other effect states a range, this refers to its maximum range. Unless otherwise noted, an effect can also be used at closer ranges. For example, the shortstaff weapon has a Close range, so it can be used against a target within Close, Very Close, or Melee range.

Range is always measured from the source of the effect (often the attacker or caster), unless the feature says otherwise. This means targets in any direction of your character within the specified range can be hit. Some effects specify a certain area within their range, such as an effect that targets “all adversaries in front of you”. In that example, you choose which direction your character is facing, then target each adversary in a 180-degree field in front of them. If an effect targets creatures in a line, then you target each adversary in a straight line within the specified range. As with other rules in this game, use common sense when interpreting these effects—they’re there to support the story, not limit it.

Other effects can move your character or a target from one range to another, such as an effect that lets you “knock back a target to Close range”. These effects typically clarify which range band a target is moved to (you can always move them closer by choice). But if the fiction doesn’t support it—for example, if an adversary hits a wall and can’t be moved any farther—then follow the fiction rather than the exact range.

A map is just an approximation of the scene playing out in everyone’s head, so scale, distance, and details don’t need to be perfectly accurate. The map and the miniatures on it should never limit the table’s imagination, only provide spatial context so everyone is on the same page.

Optional Rule: Defined Ranges

If your table would rather operate with more precise range rules, you can use a 1-inch grid battle map during combat. If you do, use the following guidelines for play:

• Melee: 1 square
• Very Close: 3 squares
• Close: 6 squares
• Far: 12 squares
• Very Far: 13+ squares
• Out of Range: Off the battlemap