Rya.Reisender
Explorer
I'd say, not all active rolls require the use of an action. For example recalling what you know is something I'd make an active roll (if result not already clear from context), even though it doesn't require an action. Whether something requires an action or not I make depend on how long it takes to do. If it takes a significant portion of 6 seconds, then it requires an action. Yes, I'd include looking around here.
The whole point of the passive score is that it applies when you have unlimited time. The active roll is simply the luck factor.
Like if you try to break a door then you roll actively first. If lower than DC, then you fail, otherwise you succeed. If you failed, you can keep trying to break it open, but you won't roll again, instead the passive score applies, so it's either success after a certain time or never succeeds.
That seems like a bad idea. You're basically increasing all passive values by 10, meaning for you almost everything is a success given enough time.Anyway, when determining a passive check, such as passive Perception, if there is nothing preventing you from taking the time to succeed, then I use your capability instead of your passive score. This applies to all passive scores.
The whole point of the passive score is that it applies when you have unlimited time. The active roll is simply the luck factor.
Like if you try to break a door then you roll actively first. If lower than DC, then you fail, otherwise you succeed. If you failed, you can keep trying to break it open, but you won't roll again, instead the passive score applies, so it's either success after a certain time or never succeeds.