What is passive perception 5e?

In Dungeons and Dragons 5e, passive perception is a character's ability to detect things or pick up on details without actively searching for them. It is a set number that is calculated by adding 10 to a character's Perception skill modifier. This number represents how aware a character is of their surroundings at all times.

Passive perception is used by the Dungeon Master to determine if a character notices hidden creatures, traps, or other hidden elements in the game world. If the DC (difficulty class) of the hidden element is lower than a character's passive perception, the character automatically notices it without needing to roll a perception check.

Players can also use their passive perception to notice details or clues in the environment that the DM may not explicitly point out, allowing for a more immersive and interactive gameplay experience. It is an important tool for both players and DMs to keep the game flowing smoothly and maintain a sense of realism in the game world.