I have a very specific problem. Someone in my 4th ed. game wants to lift a barrel (they're strong enough, that's not the question) and smash it on a rat swarm. I don't see how this falls under the category of "melee and ranged" attacks against which the swarm has resist half damage. Or does it?
Not only that, but it seems to me the barrel would hit smash a whole lot of rats, so the swarm should take the extra damage from the vulnerability the swarm has to close and area attacks. But an attack with an improvised weapon isn't a close or area attack, right?
Or would it be in between? The swarm can't resist but it also isn't vulnerable? Then what kind of attack is this? I'm confused. I'm sure this is simple than I'm making it, but I could use some reassurance.
Suggestions and advice welcome.
Thanks