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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Pielorinho" data-source="post: 1289257" data-attributes="member: 259">Although I can see the value of hiding DCs, sometimes telling the players their target number can actually increase dramatic tension. Two examples:  once, players IMC were racing the clock to find out where a certain wizard had run off to, and they knew the important clues were in his demon-protected laboratory.  The demon couldn't get out at them, but they were having a heckuva time hurting it.  Finally, almost completely out of spells, they tried a last-ditch effort:  they cast Dismissal on it.  I told the player point-blank that he'd have to make it past the demon's SR (they already knew that most spells rolled off the demon's back), and the demon would then get a save.  To up the tension, I told the player he'd need to roll a 25 on his caster level check -- a very difficult number for a ninth-level caster to hit. When he rolled a natural 18, the party erupted in cheers. I then told the players that the demon would succeed on his save if I rolled a 7 or higher; when I rolled a 3, there was applause.  The scene would've been fun without their knowing the target numbers, but knowing the numbers made it more exciting, IMO. Example 2:  in the last session, the PCs fought the highest-level spellcaster they've yet encountered, a druid who was throwing around firestorms.  When I told them they needed to roll a reflex save DC 24, their huge eyes and "oh, CRAP!" imprecations made it all worthwhile:  knowing the number they were looking for drove home to them that they weren't dealing with a Johnny-come-lately. So sometimes I tell the targets and sometimes I don't, based in part on whether I figure it'll ramp up the tension. Daniel</blockquote>

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