As a DnD player, I do happen to think that if bob is in the SE corner and Jake is in the NW corner, Bob SHOULD have to take a bunch of turns to get to Jake.
I also happen to think they should split XP. That's how it works in DnD and I happen to think it works well. If they want to explore solo they should have to fight solo.
The problem I can see is if bob wants to explore and Jake wants to fight. Maybe have an ability to completely opt out of combat when it starts? I just really think the ability to move freely while other party members are in combat poses a huge problem.
