The Dink Network

A player who doesn't find any secrets should have a hard time, as long as some of the secrets aren't too hard to figure out. I'd balance it somewhere in the middle. A player who finds them all should have an easier time, while the dumbass who doesn't find any should get what he deserves

Another thing would be add optional areas/battles that would be balanced for players that have accumulated high stats. That way, not finding stuff isn't really penalized and those who found the secrets are rewarded with being able to handle the optional areas.