Dynamic Elements. A dynamic element is a threat that arises or evolves while the trap functions.
Usually, changes involving dramatic elements take effect at the end of each of the trap’s turns or
in response to the characters’ actions.
Constant Elements. A complex trap poses a threat even when it is not taking its turn. The
constant elements describe how these parts of the trap function. Most make an attack or force a
saving throw against any creature that ends its turn within a certain area.
Countermeasures. A trap can be defeated in a variety of ways. A trap’s description details the
checks or spells that can detect or disable it. It also specifies what happens, if anything, on a
failed attempt to disable it.
Disabling a complex trap is like disarming a simple trap, except that a complex trap requires
more checks. It typically takes three successful checks to disable one of a complex trap’s
elements. Many of these traps have multiple elements, requiring a lot of work to shut down every
part of the trap. Usually, a successful check reduces a trap element’s effectiveness even if it
doesn’t disable the trap.
Running a Complex Trap
A complex trap functions in play much like a legendary monster. When it is activated, the trap’s
active elements act according to its initiative. On each of its initiative counts, after all creatures
with that same initiative count have acted, the trap’s features activate. Apply the effects detailed
in the trap’s description.
After resolving the effects of the trap’s active elements, check its dynamic elements to see if
anything changes about the trap. Many complex traps have effects that vary during an encounter.
A magical aura might do more damage the longer it is active, or a swinging blade might change
which area of a chamber it attacks.
The trap’s constant elements allow it to have effects when it isn’t the trap’s turn. At the end of
each creature’s turn, look at the trap’s constant elements to see if any of their effects are
triggered.
Experience for Complex Traps
Overcoming a complex trap merits an experience point award, depending on the danger it poses.
Judging whether a party has overcome a trap requires some amount of adjudication. As a rule of
thumb, if the characters disable a complex trap or are exposed to its effects and survive, award
them experience points for the effort according to the table below.
Complex Trap Experience Awards
Trap Level Experience Points
1 – 4 650
5 – 10 3,850