In Pathfinder Second Edition (PF2E), tactical positioning and timing are vital components of combat. Among the many mechanics that reward thoughtful planning is Attack of Opportunity a reaction that lets certain characters punish enemy movement or actions. Unlike in Pathfinder 1E, Attack of Opportunity is no longer a universal feature and must be earned or selected. Understanding how and when this reaction triggers can give players a significant edge in battle and help prevent critical errors. Whether you’re a new player learning the rules or a seasoned adventurer optimizing your build, mastering Attack of Opportunity is key to dominating the battlefield.
What Is Attack of Opportunity in PF2E?
The Basics of the Reaction
Attack of Opportunity (AoO) is a specific reaction that a creature can use when a nearby opponent takes a certain action. This reaction allows the creature to make a melee Strike against the triggering enemy. In PF2E, not every character automatically has access to this powerful combat option. It is primarily reserved for specific classes or monsters unless otherwise granted by feats or abilities.
Triggers for Attack of Opportunity
In Pathfinder 2E, the triggers for AoO are more refined than in the first edition. A creature with Attack of Opportunity can use it when an adjacent enemy does one of the following:
- Uses a move action (such as Stride) that leaves a square within your reach
- Uses a manipulate action (such as drawing a weapon or using a potion)
- Makes a ranged attack while within your melee reach
This makes AoO more situational but still extremely potent in punishing careless enemies. It’s important to note that not all actions provoke AoO, and enemies can often use tactics to avoid triggering it entirely.
Which Classes Get Attack of Opportunity?
Fighter Class
Among all player classes, the Fighter is the most iconic user of Attack of Opportunity. Fighters gain access to this reaction at level 1, making them immediately threatening on the battlefield. Their high accuracy and weapon proficiency make their AoOs particularly punishing.
Champion Class
Champions can also gain AoO, but not at level 1. They must take the Attack of Opportunity class feat, which becomes available at level 6. While delayed compared to the Fighter, the Champion’s durability makes AoOs a strong tactical asset in mid- to high-level play.
Other Classes
Most other classes do not get access to Attack of Opportunity without specific archetypes, feats, or class options. For example:
- Some archetypes or dedications like the Fighter Dedication can provide AoO as a feat choice.
- Martial monsters, such as dragons or giants, often have their own version of Attack of Opportunity written into their stat blocks.
How to Use Attack of Opportunity Effectively
Control the Battlefield
AoO excels when you can control space and restrict enemy movement. By placing your character in key chokepoints or near high-value targets, you can deter opponents from retreating or repositioning. Strategic use of AoO can break enemy charges or disrupt flanking maneuvers.
Target Manipulate Actions
Many enemy spellcasters or rogues will try to use potions, wands, or spell components mid-fight. These manipulate actions trigger Attack of Opportunity, allowing you to punish their attempts. This can force enemies to waste turns or risk taking damage just to complete a basic task.
Disrupt Enemy Routines
In many combats, enemies follow routines: move, attack, retreat. With AoO, you introduce a level of risk into that routine. Smart enemies will stay still, which restricts their mobility. Reckless ones will move and potentially suffer heavy hits, especially from a high-level fighter.
Building Around Attack of Opportunity
Weapon Selection
Choosing the right weapon can enhance your AoO damage. Reach weapons, such as glaives or halberds, allow you to threaten a wider area. This makes it more difficult for enemies to maneuver around you. Additionally, weapons with traits like trip or disarm can turn your AoO into a control opportunity.
Feats and Abilities
Several feats can make AoO even stronger:
- Combat Reflexes (not in core, but may appear in expansions): Potentially allows more than one AoO per round.
- Power Attack: Combine with AoO for devastating single hits.
- Attack of Opportunity Improvements: Later-level class features may enhance the damage or effect of your AoO.
Archetypes and Multiclassing
Taking a Fighter Dedication archetype gives access to AoO as a feat. This is an excellent option for classes like Barbarians or Rangers who want some battlefield control without sacrificing their core identity. Just be mindful of prerequisites when multiclassing.
Combat Examples Involving AoO
Example 1: Fighter vs. Goblin Alchemist
The goblin tries to drink a healing elixir while next to the fighter. Because this is a manipulate action, it triggers AoO. The fighter swings with their longsword, hits, and interrupts the goblin’s action, potentially dropping them before the potion takes effect.
Example 2: Champion Guarding a Corridor
A Champion holds a narrow passage. A group of enemies tries to rush through. As the first moves past, it triggers AoO. The Champion lands a hit, stopping the momentum and forcing the rest of the enemies to reconsider their strategy.
Example 3: Reach Weapon Advantage
A halberd-wielding fighter stands 10 feet from a spellcaster. The caster tries to cast a spell without taking precautions. AoO is triggered, and the fighter lands a hard hit, breaking concentration and making the caster vulnerable.
What Attack of Opportunity Doesn’t Do
Not a Guaranteed Disruption
Attack of Opportunity is powerful, but it does not automatically interrupt an action unless the attack has specific traits or the GM rules otherwise. Most of the time, AoO simply adds damage or punishes movement. You’ll need additional abilities or narrative circumstances to actually cancel actions.
Does Not Trigger on All Movement
Enemies using abilities like Step or teleportation do not provoke AoO. Smart enemies will often find ways to avoid triggering your reaction entirely, especially once they know you can make one.
Limited to One per Round (Usually)
Unless you have special abilities, you can only take one reaction per round. This means you must decide whether to use your AoO or save it for a more valuable trigger. Timing becomes everything.
Attack of Opportunity in PF2E is a refined and tactical tool. No longer a default for every character, it has become a specialized option that rewards strategic positioning and combat awareness. Fighters remain the masters of this reaction, but other classes can gain access through feats or multiclassing. Whether punishing manipulate actions, deterring movement, or forcing enemies to stay in place, AoO can turn the tide of battle when used correctly. By understanding its triggers, limitations, and best applications, players can make the most of every combat encounter. As part of an optimized build or a dynamic battlefield plan, Attack of Opportunity stands as one of the most iconic and useful tools in PF2E combat strategy.