Finding hidden creatures

[Knowledge Sinkhole]

If you don't succeed at your initial spot check, how would you find a hidden creature? (if there even is a way)

 

[AGGEMAM]

When it hits you?

Or does something that would provoke a new spot check.

 

[Knowledge Sinkhole]

Or does something that would provoke a new spot check.

Such as..? Is there a list of what those actions are in the PHB that I could reference?

 

[AGGEMAM]

Such as..? Is there a list of what those actions are in the PHB that I could reference?

No, but you can a pretty good idea by checking the Hiding And Spotting section in the DMG, page 60.

Basically anything that would change the modifiers to the Hide check would warrant a new Spot check.

 

[Crothian]

As long as it just hides, once you fail the spot check you will not see it. If it moves, it needs to make a new hide check which means you get a new spot check. If it attaks melee it is seen. If it attacks ranged, it might be seen depnding on how far away it is.

 

[Knowledge Sinkhole]

How about if it casts a spell?

 

[AGGEMAM]

How about if it casts a spell?

Unless it is a Stilled and Silenced Spell the spellcaster is both moving (loosing the +5 bonus for not moving) and speaking loud and clearly.

That is both a new Listen and a new Spot check.

 

[dr_nukem]

If the monster is casting a spell with verbal or somatic components, then the PCs would definitely get another listen/spot check. If the monster was trying to do this quietly and still remain hidden, then let them make an opposed hide/MS roll. I'd also make them do a concentration check similar to Casting on the Defensive, simply because this type of action is not normal.

Other than that, the above comments are spot on. The PCs will not get another spot check unless one of the conditions change or the monster does something that warrants a new opposed roll.

On a side note, per Song and Silence, you can perform a melee attack from hiding.

"Sneak up on Someone: You can sneak up on someone using Hide checks, but you MUST move from HIDING PLACE to HIDING PLACE to do so. Use the procedure in Tail Someone section (above) for this. If your last hiding place is within 1 foot per Hide rank you possess of your quarry, you can sneak up and
attack before he or she sees you." p. 37 (emphasis mine)

 

[Henrix]

You should also get new spot checks when the cover changes.
That is, when you move closer so that less is obstructing your view, or if the hidden party is no longer directly behind the tree as you have moved closer to the tree at an angle.

[Edited to create some sort of legibility.]

 

[Magus_Jerel]

hmmm - a search check?