I would like to suggest a set of minigames for evaluating the skills of the hero.
For example the Scottish lumber games in which power and stamina are challenged by tossing a pole or crossing a moat by a lumber pole.
Then challenging intelligence by a logical riddle based on graphical input and void of local linguistic relations.
These minigames should serve enhancing the experience along with a bonus for skill points on success or winning, but experience points should be gained regardless of the outcome.