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Message: <blockquote data-quote="MoutonRustique" data-source="post: 7557732" data-attributes="member: 22362">If you're a beginner, a simple way to look at it (IMO) is this :If the party has one significant objective, then a Skill Challenge is an appropriate mechanic to measure a degree of success.If the party has multiple significant objectives, offering different ways forward, then a Skill Challenge can be appropriate to indicate success or failure.Also (IMO, very important) : <ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">If the situation would be a single check multiple times - not a skill challenge.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">If only one (or few) character are implicated by the situation - not a good skill challenge.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">If there is only one way to approach the situation - not a good skill challenge.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">If there is no pressure or opposition - probably not a good skill challenge.</li> </ul>I've found that, with these concepts in mind, it really helps to avoid "jamming" a skill challenge where it isn't appropriate. So then, how does one use a skill challenge ? There are two main uses :(A) to offer a mechanical frame for a complex situation (usually non-combat)(B) to offer an additional objective (often secondary) within a combatHow to use (A) : <ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Define goal : major obstacle to overcome or main objective</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Set the scene - including an immediate obstacle(s) or objective(s) (not the goal)</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Ask for approaches</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">The approaches use will dictate what is the appropriate skill to check </li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">If an action/approach directly tackles the obstacle, it is a primary check</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">If the action would offer an advantage to overcome the obstacle, it is a secondary check</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Apply the effects of the checks to the situation and with regards to the pressure or opposition</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Re-set the scene (as above), and go again!</li> </ul>The last two are, arguably, the most important (and difficult) steps to have a great skill challenge.<a href="http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?655261-What-are-your-favorite-Skill-Challenges&p=7529340&viewfull=1#post7529340" target="_blank">Some excellent examples of EPIC proportions.</a>How to use (B):<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Define purpose of the challenge</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Set "stages" OR multiple approaches to challenge</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Be generous with adjudication of actions (not just skills)</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Re-set the scene at least once during progress</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"> OR <a href="http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?603682-Building-a-multi-goal-encounter&p=7548473&viewfull=1#post7548473" target="_blank">use this post as an excellent example</a></li> </ul>Rules of ThumbPrimary check : counts towards Success/FailureSecondary check : will offer a benefit to further check - but does not count towards Success/Failure</blockquote>

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