Yes, melee spell attacks can indeed benefit from flanking in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, provided your game utilizes the optional flanking rules.
When the optional flanking rules are in play, combatants who position themselves on opposite sides of an enemy—effectively "flanking" them—gain a tactical advantage. This advantage typically grants them advantage on their attack rolls against that creature.
How Flanking Applies to Melee Spell Attacks
The rules for flanking are quite clear: they apply to engaged combatants whether they are using melee weapons or melee spell attacks. This means that if you cast a spell that requires a melee spell attack (e.g., Shocking Grasp, Vampiric Touch, or an attack with a magical weapon summoned via a spell like a Spiritual Weapon), and you are properly flanking an enemy, you would roll two d20s and take the higher result for your attack roll.
Key Aspects of Flanking with Spells
For a melee spell attack to benefit from flanking, the following conditions must typically be met:
- Engagement: The attacking spellcaster must be engaged in melee combat with the target. This generally means being within 5 feet of the target.
- Opposite Sides: Another ally must also be engaged with the same target, positioned on the opposite side of the target from you, creating the "flank."
- Attack Roll Benefit: If these conditions are met, your melee spell attack gains advantage, making it more likely to hit the target.
It's important to note that while the flanking rules are quite beneficial for melee attacks (both weapon and spell), they typically do not extend to ranged attacks, even if you are engaged in melee. For instance, attempting to cast a ranged spell while engaged in melee combat will generally still incur disadvantage, even if you are technically flanking. The core benefit of flanking is specifically designed to reward close-quarters tactical positioning for melee-based assaults, including those delivered through magical means.
