Let's FIX RECALL KNOWLEDGE in Pathfinder 2e (The Rules Lawyer)

Channel:

The Rules Lawyer

Subscribers:

47,700

Published on March 22, 2022 3:51:22 PM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWWH9GjfNGk

Game:

RE:CALL (2023)

Duration: 38:04

27,891 views

1,362

Recall Knowledge is too weak for players, and too unclear for game masters in Pathfinder 2e. Let's fix it!

===========================
As requested, a written summary of my houserules with regard to recalling knowledge about a creature:
(Keep a list of everyone's knowledge skill bonuses behind the GM screen.)

1. PC Recalls Knowledge on X, and may ask a specific question about it (i.e., does it have a weakness)? Rolls d20
2. GM applies one or more of that PC's skills to the d20 roll.
DC X for the question they answered (can be Simple DC or a Level-based DC appropriate to that question)
Level-based DC based on creature's Level, to completely identify the creature

Additionally:
-You can repeat a failed R.K. in combat, but not outside combat.
-PCs with R.K. feats like Monster Hunter, etc.: use the Level-based DC of the monster.

===========================
ADDITION: I also like this suggestion from a commenter on Reddit - "If a PC was Investigating as their exploration activity, they get one free Recall Knowledge at the start of combat."

0:00 Introduction
3:21 The Recall Knowledge action
5:31 Overview of the problems
6:56 #1: Using one skill
11:50 Problem situation
13:28 #2: Conflating IDing with asking questions
15:52 #3: DC fixed by level
18:35 #4: Repeat attempts hard or impossible
22:33 #5: The Critical Failure effect
25:52 #6: Unthematic weakening of core abilities
30:57 Dubious Knowledge
32:38 Learning the relative level of a creature
33:23 SUMMARY of house rules
37:03 Coming up!

Here is the Paizo thread I mention in the video:
https://paizo.com/threads/rzs43haa?The-Recall-Knowledge-activity-could-use-a

Dreamy Flashback by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100532
Artist: http://incompetech.com/

===========================

LIKE & SUBSCRIBE! I'm a lawyer who teaches and runs tabletop RPGs (Pathfinder, D&D, Starfinder) for kids and teens, making videos and hosting events related to TTRPGs and board games.

JOIN THE DISCORD to join our community and The Endless Tale Tavern PF2e campaign! https://discord.gg/bpyqxhwe8X

SUPPORT THE RULES LAWYER PATREON!
https://www.patreon.com/theruleslawyer

For extended-form actual plays, SUBSCRIBE to my other channel, "RULES LAWYER DISCORD COMMUNITY CHANNEL" :
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1K95QD8Mv2Tr6Wne6KS9g

Follow me on TWITTER at: https://twitter.com/theruleslawyer1

LEARN PATHFINDER 2E! From The Rules Lawyer:
BEGINNER BOX Demonstration + Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWMfQKXicak
It's Easy to Learn! A First Combat: https://youtu.be/jafxucfk0PY
Character Creation - A Breakdown: https://youtu.be/zBb10JowP30
A Second Combat: https://youtu.be/fLnmENaQykE
Tactics & Strategies to Beat Pathfinder 2e's Tough Fights, Part 1: https://youtu.be/PRq0VaN1-XE
Tactics & Strategies, Part 2: https://youtu.be/p5xV7BOFwyw

All Pathfinder 2e rules are FREE!
https://2e.aonprd.com/
https://pf2easy.com/

Pick up your Pathfinder 2e book on Amazon using my affiliate links below. As an Amazon Affliate, I earn from qualifying purchases which helps me continue doing what I love!
Pathfinder 2e Core Rulebook: https://amzn.to/3BiFCSj
Pathfinder 2e Beginner Box: https://amzn.to/3eVsUBB

Other Statistics