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*Dungeons & Dragons
5E low level monster skill checks
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<blockquote data-quote="iserith" data-source="post: 7793276" data-attributes="member: 97077"><p>Passive checks are for tasks that are performed repeatedly, not "passively" (in the sense that you're not "actively" doing something). If you're performing a task repeatedly while traveling a dungeon, then it may be that you're not keeping watch for danger (DM decides if can perform other tasks).</p><p></p><p>If you're not keeping watch for danger because you are searching high and low for secret doors as you move about, then - if the DM says as a result you're not alert to hidden dangers - you are automatically surprised if you run across a lurking monster (or it runs across you). You also don't apply your passive Perception to notice traps along your path.</p><p></p><p>Only characters that are keeping watch while traveling in the dungeon get to apply their passive Perception and only notice threats if they are in the position to do so, such as with characters in the front rank of the marching order noticing a trap the party is approaching. Rangers in favored terrain are an exception to this as they can both keep watch <em>and </em>do another repetitive task.</p><p></p><p>So, make it a trade-off. You can either stay alert to danger or search for secret doors - what'll it be? That makes it an actual choice and one that makes marching order, pace, and choice of activity of real concern.</p><p></p><p>If someone does opt to search for secret doors while traveling the dungeon, then they apply their passive Perception to that end, with a +5 if someone is working together with them on that task. (The DM may also say the person helping is not alert to hidden danger and at risk of automatic surprise and befalling traps.) Once the secret door is found, then figuring out how it works is the next challenge and may call for an Intelligence (Investigation) check depending on the approach the player describes. This may also take time which could be tied to a wandering monster check.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="iserith, post: 7793276, member: 97077"] Passive checks are for tasks that are performed repeatedly, not "passively" (in the sense that you're not "actively" doing something). If you're performing a task repeatedly while traveling a dungeon, then it may be that you're not keeping watch for danger (DM decides if can perform other tasks). If you're not keeping watch for danger because you are searching high and low for secret doors as you move about, then - if the DM says as a result you're not alert to hidden dangers - you are automatically surprised if you run across a lurking monster (or it runs across you). You also don't apply your passive Perception to notice traps along your path. Only characters that are keeping watch while traveling in the dungeon get to apply their passive Perception and only notice threats if they are in the position to do so, such as with characters in the front rank of the marching order noticing a trap the party is approaching. Rangers in favored terrain are an exception to this as they can both keep watch [I]and [/I]do another repetitive task. So, make it a trade-off. You can either stay alert to danger or search for secret doors - what'll it be? That makes it an actual choice and one that makes marching order, pace, and choice of activity of real concern. If someone does opt to search for secret doors while traveling the dungeon, then they apply their passive Perception to that end, with a +5 if someone is working together with them on that task. (The DM may also say the person helping is not alert to hidden danger and at risk of automatic surprise and befalling traps.) Once the secret door is found, then figuring out how it works is the next challenge and may call for an Intelligence (Investigation) check depending on the approach the player describes. This may also take time which could be tied to a wandering monster check. [/QUOTE]
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