Replacing Perception with Thievery

[the Jester]

Tracking is kind of a similar issue- I allow either Perception or another appropriate skill (either Nature or Dungeoneering, based on the environment) when tracking.

I think the best way to handle this for rogues is to give them a "trap sense" kind of ability, where they get a bonus on active Perception checks made to find traps; however, making Thievery the "find traps" skill certainly sucks for everyone but rogues, so I wouldn't do that- what if your party doesn't have a rogue at all?

Perhaps the best way to handle the "rogues should find traps" issue is to add a method of detection using Thievery to most traps. After all, most traps in 4e have multiple approaches to dealing with them and often multiple approaches to detecting them as well (often involving Arcana or Insight).

 

[Arlough]

I actually approve of using other skills in situations to gain knowledge, and having Perception be reduced, but not eliminated. Main reason, it still is a good opposing roll to Stealth. If a creature is sneaking up on me, I am not going to be using my Nature skill to figure out where he is coming from if I don't even know what "he" is. So my perception is what will help me notice the change in my immediate surroundings like a scuff of a claw, or a disturbance in the dirt next to me (if the creature is invisible).
Then, once I have a better clue as to what the monster may be, I can use the appropriate monster knowledge check to find out what tactics these monsters are known for.

 

[Stalker0]

If a creature is sneaking up on me, I am not going to be using my Nature skill to figure out where he is coming from if I don't even know what "he" is.

"Look, see how the brush becomes thicker towards the west. Always keep your senses keen to that direction, for it is the easiest place to set up an ambush".

If your in a natural setting, I can definitely see your knowledge of nature helping you to find hidden creatures.

 

[Kzach]

I actually approve of using other skills in situations to gain knowledge, and having Perception be reduced, but not eliminated. Main reason, it still is a good opposing roll to Stealth.

Or, as previously suggested, a Wisdom check, and if the character has a Perception bonus of some type, it can be added.

 

[dangerous jack]

"Look, see how the brush becomes thicker towards the west. Always keep your senses keen to that direction, for it is the easiest place to set up an ambush".

If your in a natural setting, I can definitely see your knowledge of nature helping you to find hidden creatures.

Likewise,

In the Urban setting: Streetwise tells you what noises are normal, how the streets & alleyways present ways of approaching, who is out of place

In the dungeon: Dungeoneering tells you when the echoes are wrong, or when a draft of air is suddenly interrupted