So do PCs get experience for finding secret doors?

[johnsemlak]

If PCs get xp in 3e for finding and removing traps, what about secret doors?

 

[Alzrius]

Traps represent a level of challenge, of threat, to a PC. Just like in a combat situation, the PC needs to make rolls, and damage is a factor based on them. Some traps can be more lethal than others also. Those are the reasons why PCs gain xp for disarming traps.

None of those hold true for merely finding a secret door. No xp to PCs who find them.

 

[Maldur]

When finding the secret door is a major part of the adenture yes!

but if it is just the elf walking past, and finding it because of his special ability: no.

but finding it and using it is something completely different: imagine a adventure revolving around finding and using a secret door in the thronerooom , while a formal banquet is going on in the same room. that could be a major obstacle in the adventureers path, and should be awarded xp if the find a way through.

 

[Umbran]

If the secret door is presented as a challenge, or puzzle - so that the PCs deduce it's existance and possible location, then perhaps yes.

 

[Destil]

PCs get XP in however the DM wishes to hand it out, if they want to assign a CR for a hidden door then the players get XP for it.

EDIT: Removed some stuff, mabye I'm just real defensive about the XP system...

 

[Li Shenron]

As a matter of fact, the reward for finding a secret door is usually the fact itself that you have found it, with a treasure behind or a shortcut for the quest. Of course, there could be also a threat behind.

Note by the way that PCs get XP for encountering a trap, it doesn't matter if they find it or the trap finds them .

 

[Steverooo]

Note by the way that PCs get XP for encountering a trap, it doesn't matter if they find it or the trap finds them .

Well, actually, it does... Dead PCs get no experience!

Yes, I would award some minor XP for finding the secret door. Perhaps one/DC to find it. Hey, that Elf had to have some Search skill to locate the DC 30 entrance, and he should get something for it!

Besides, if treasure is behind the door, that's a reward, too. If a secret section of the dungeon is, then that leads to more XP! Still, doing other things (besides killing) needs to be rewarded... Just keep the rewards small, unless it's important to the adventure.