Skill challenges have been around since the 4th edition of Dungeons and Dragons. The characters must use innate skills and imagination, rather than relying on brute force alone, to succeed in a given encounter.

Pathfinder has a system for running skill challenges, usually involving grids and charts and limiting the options to one of two skills listed per challenge point.

The Dungeon Coach posted a video involving how he runs skill challenges in 5th edition Dungeons and Dragons. I’m already strongly considering using this for my campaigns in the future.

Check out the video and see how you might use such a mechanic in your gaming sessions!