Should traps have tells?

[GMMichael]

Simple question.

Should traps have tells?

It's a trap!

I think this thread is trying to catch people from the "We Don't Need Thieves" thread contradicting themselves. So I'll just step on the panel . . .

Unlike some here, I'm fine if they move at a snail's pace searching every square inch for traps, as that's what cautious characters would do.

Bad idea. That's what the trap maker wants you to do.

The movies always have the person step on a land mine and hear the click. . . . I fell it make some situations better if the PC steps on a pressure plate and hears the click. Maybe by failing the Perception check by 5 or less.

How about failing within a margin of one's competence bonuses? Or hearing the click and not blowing up if you succeed on the follow-up reflex-defense? Sorry, I'm not a fan of typical margins of error.

I think we should lean into the gaminess of traps instead of trying to emulate how they apply to other media.

Aw! Then we miss out on hearing a SNAP! And turning around to see that Steve has a dart in the side of his neck. Classic.