Dms keeping player experience points secret

[Queen_Dopplepopolis]

I think that I would enjoy a DM that did this (though it would be some added work). Currently, I spend a lot of time staring longingly at my XP total and dreaming of my next feat. Once I get close, I practically beg the DM for the extra 200 or whatever to level up. I know I shouldn't, but leveling up is SO EXCITING.

If the DM kept it a secret, it would be easier for me to stay *in character* I think... and not worry so much about turning that extra corner to take on a few more (insert monster here).

 

[Vymair]

I definitely track xp and don't let the players know. The other DMs I play with do the same. I don't think our reasons are all the same, but here is mine.

I don't want to players to do unrealistic things when they realized they are 100 xp short of the next level. Too often in my past experience, players would realize they are close to level and spend their focus looking for a quick fight so they could level. I don't want them to act that way. I don't want them putting off that magic item if they know they are close to leveling. I want them to act naturally.

 

[shilsen]

I track XP myself and let my players know when they level. I've also stopped giving XP for combat, quests, etc. I just allot enough XP per session for the PCs to advance at a pace I'm comfortable with. The only reason I haven't dropped XP completely is because it comes into play for item creation, certain spells, etc. I also give bonus XP for things like writing a campaign journal. On the whole, I have to say I haven't found any downsides to this method and will use it whenever I DM.

 

[johnsemlak]

I'm surprised at the number of people posting here saying they keep the XP secret.

I don't eally see keeping it secret as that much of a benefit, and most players I game with want to know. One of the most rewarding parts of the session IME is when the DM hands out XP and the players see if they've leveled up.

PC progression is one of the most important aspects of the game and I think the players should be as involved as possible.

Plus, 3rd edition sort of requires it, with all the XP costs for magic items and so forth.

Bottom line, i don't see any major benefits, except perhaps giving the DM less work. And for that, we've got a handy xp calculator where we simply enter the CRs and generate xp.

Just my opinion

 

[pogre]

I think it is a really cool idea, but it just woulod not fit my players' styles for the most part. They are powergamers in the sense that they enjoy accumulating abilities and counting stuff. They are a joy to have as players, but figuring out experience point costs for items and what they are going to do with their next five levels is a part of the game they really enjoy.

They would not balk if I tried it - they trust me, but I know it's part of the game they enjoy.

 

[ForceUser]

I want players concentrating on the story, not bean-counting experience points. I track XP behind the screen. They'll level when they level.

 

[Brain]

Just a bump in the hopes I'll get more feedback on this topic.

I've pretty much decided to start doing it in my 'experimental' campaign. We'll see how it goes. Feedback from any of my players would be useful and appreciated.

At this point I'm fine with it. I know some of the players have whined about it a bit, but I think it's a good thing overall (especially for those who have lost track of their xp in the past) and with the caveat that you will let people know information if they need it for decisions (like the training in that campaign).