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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Rod Staffwand" data-source="post: 6794340" data-attributes="member: 6776279">The hiding rules in 5E could have used a larger sidebar with examples or a greater discussion on implementing stealth in different situations. However, the core rules are explicit (if lacking in clarity). The key points are these:1. You make a Dex (Stealth) check when you hide, which sets the DC for Wis (Perception) rolls of those that actively search for signs of your presence. You basically engage your cloaking device and enter stealth mode. Like any roll, advantage and disadvantage may apply for whatever reasons the DM deems appropriate.2. You cannot hide from a creature that can see you. It is expected that the creature can keep track of you and the hiding attempt automatically fails. Some powers (such as the halfling racial feature) allow you to make hiding checks in circumstances when you otherwise would be visible. The implication is that you can break line of sight if your observers fail their rolls.3. In combat, creatures are ON ALERT and thus will spot you if you leave hiding. The text specifically mentions leaving hiding to approach an enemy, but we can also apply this general to entering the line of sight of an enemy, either fully or partially (such as to snipe). The DM is given the power to alter this outcome and allow you to remain hidden, even if you would otherwise be seen. The DM is not given advice on how to adjudicate this scenario, but the standard resolution options apply, such as a perception roll (with possible advantage or disadvantage) or an automatic success.4. From point #3 we can determine that your 'stealth mode' has five categories of DC, based on circumstances: Auto-Fail, Roll w/ Disadvantage, Roll (Standard), Roll w/ Advantage, Auto-Success. If, your opponents aren't actively searching at all, they suffer the further drawback of using their Passive Perception instead of the above rolls. You probably can't remain hidden if you walk up in front of the orc and pick his nose. You'll probably have an easy time stealthing in a vast, dark chamber filled with columns vs. a deaf and drunk ogre. 5. There is no elaboration on out of combat stealthing, so you fall back on the core stealth vs. perception mechanic of point #1 and the categories of point #4. However, out of combat stealthing will likely entail hiding your presence and not so much your position. Can you sneak up on the bandit camp and listen in on their conversation? Once again the DM determines how easy this is based on how close you get and the alertness of your enemies. And, once again, you might remain hidden, even though you are otherwise visible, based on what the DM determines.</blockquote>

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