Free Lists to Help Develop a Character’s Personality
Even the best of Players and GMs have trouble getting past Character stereotypes in D&D. Whether it’s the pious Cleric who always feels they need to Heal, the Barbarian ready for a fight, and of course, the Horny Bard. So how can you breathe some fresh air into the character you’re building?
The answer comes by crafting your Personality separate from your Class or Race. Religion isn’t just for Clerics or Paladins. Imagine a Meathead Wizard or a Bard who lacks confidence. The possibilities are endless. Let the choices you make below help develop your Personality and Back Story. And don’t be afraid to go as far away from the stereotypes as you can.
HOW TO USE THE LISTS BELOW
The suggestions are split up between three categories: Physical, Driving Factors & Quirks. The Physical category allows for a conversation piece, or something that would possibly alter the way you fight. Driving Factors are what contribute to your decision making. They play a part in large moments like embarking on a campaign, or small moments like what to do with a shiny gold object you see out of the corner of your eye. Finally, the Quirks list are personality traits that keep everyone else at the table (including the GM) on their toes. Imagine a Rogue who’s great at stealing, but horrible at lying. How about a Druid who’s been living on their own in their grove for so long that they no longer understand any social etiquette.
Pick one or two from each list that sounds fun to play, and then ask yourself some follow-up questions to flesh out your story. Where did you get that trait from? Why do you have it? How long have you been that way? How is it going to impact the way your character acts in Social, Exploration, and Combat opportunities? If you enjoy playing things random, roll a d20 for each list to pull some interesting combinations.
Overall, have fun developing a character that is unlike the ones your party has known in the past. And as usual, use the suggestions as a jumping point for your creativity. If you think of a great idea that isn’t listed, go for it! Drop a comment below with some fun combinations you make. I’d love to see what you come up with.
Physical Attributes:
Tattoos
Piercings
Prominent Scar
Shorter/Taller than Usual
Overly Muscular
Overweight or Underweight
Walks with a Limp
Prosthetic Limb
Prefers to walk barefoot
Always Filthy
Always Dressed Impeccably
Missing an Eye
Unconventional Armor/Weapon/Spell Focus
Unusal Facial Hair
Distinct Voice (raspy, high-pitched, loud, etc.)
Unique Eye Color(s)
Odd Hair Style
Loss of one of Your Senses
Unusal Allergies or Hypochondriac
Constantly Fidgeting
Driving Factors:
Charity
Redemption
Impulse
Caution
Pride
Philosophy
Knowledge
Change
Religion
Family/Friends
Leadership
Wealth
Power
Artistry
Destiny
Comfort
Glory/Fame
Romance
Tradition
Fear
Quirks:
Too Blunt with Words
Naive
Can’t Help but Lie Constantly
Breaks out into Song Randomly
Lawful to a Fault
Collector of a Certain Object
Has a “Tell” When Lying to Someone
Avoids Having to Do Work
Loves to Embellish a Story
Wagers on Anything
Has Own Made Up Curse Words
Easily Distracted/Constantly Daydreaming
Annoyingly Optimistic
Compelled to Push the Button or Open the Chest
Seeks Revenge for the Smallest of Insults
Flirts With Everyone
Lacks Social Etiquette
Misquotes Everyone
Sees Signs and Prophecy Everywhere
Insists on using Artisan tools to do something you’re clearly not proficient in
