Backstab
Backstab refers to the extra damage done by Rogues on fleeing monsters, and are sometimes called sneak attacks. It is calculated as 1dxplevel.[1] Only melee attacks count toward backstab damage.
History
In NetHack 3.4.3 and variants based on it, any weapon's damage against a fleeing monster while not wielding two weapons would qualify for the backstab bonus, including thrown objects such as daggers. This was changed in 3.6.0, with the combined bonuses of multiple flying daggers being seen as too powerful.[2]
Variants
dNetHack
In dNetHack, in addition to Rogues, backstab dice are available to Drow Anachrononauts, Convicts (only when wielding a spoon), any character with Andromalius bound, and lightsaber-wielders using Juyo form. Backstab dice apply when the target is fleeing, trapped, unmoving, sleeping, stunned, confused, or blinded. With Lifehunt Scythe, players can also backstab if the monster doesn't know their location.
xNetHack
In xNetHack, backstab damage is limited by weapon skill; it can't go above d2/d4/d10/d20/d30 for Restricted/Unskilled/Basic/Skilled/Expert. Backstab damage applies when the monster is fleeing, trapped, frozen, unmoving, sleeping, stunned, confused, or blinded.
References
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