Warhammer Fantasy Battle Reporter Forum

I've noticed several people creating characters that they still havent introduced to a game. So I figured I would give those people a little encouragement. I've either rollplayed or been the storyteller for RPGs for about 20 years now, so I know that introducing a new character can often be the hardest thing to do in a game. Here are some things to keep in mind when starting a new character:

What kind of character do you have?
How you introduce your character will have a lot of bearing on how people will see your character. If you start a fight first thing, your character will most likely be viewed as a trouble maker. If your character gets off the boat they work on, people will probably always see a little sailor in that character. If your character walks up to someone having trouble pulling a cart and offers to help, people will be more likely to seen as a helpful person.

-Its helpful to put your character into a situation that is normal for them when you get started. Or even have that character stepping out of what they consider "Normal"
-Write your characters thoughts upon entering a game You can do this by italicising what you type. Are they happy to be here? Are they impatient? Are they taking their time and enjoying the people and things around them?


Describe your character
What does your character looks lik? How does he behave? Does he have any habbits? Is he dressed well or in rags?

-Describe your characters appearance. Is he pale skinned? Dark? Short, tall, fat, skinny? What color are the eyes and hair? Jewelry?
-How does your character dress? A loin cloth? Gold embriodered finery? Peasants clothes? Chainmail or some other kind of armor?
-Habbits go a long way towards defining your character, describe any unusual habbits they might have.
-How do they treat others? Are they rude? Kind? Quiet?


Background.
Every person has a past, it will make your character much more interesting if you include a little bit of that. If your character grew up in a small town, they are going to be awestruck by a massive city. If they are travelers, they are going to take note of their surroundings but not be terribly impressed by much.

-If your character is from a small town, have thim stop and stare at all of the people and things in a big town.
-If they are a traveler, the first things they will take note of will be the taverns and inns (Often one in the same)
-Sailors will be looking for some place they can find a pint or spend their hard earned money.
-Merchants will notice the competition and stake out the best place to set up shop.


Situation?
What is the reason for your character being where they are? This has a lot of bearing on how the character will act when getting started.

-Why is your character here at this time? Did your character follow someone? Are they doing someone a favor?
-What do they hope to acconplish by being here? Are they here for work? If so, why? Are they here for revenge? Information? Are they doing someone a favor?


An Example of an introduction:
Thaddeus stepped off of the large ship, his legs still unsteady even after the long journey. His fine, gold embroidered clothes are a stark contrast against his pasty complexion and undernourished body. His grey eyes are angry and his stringy blond hair is tangled around his face, "Jacob! Philip! Grab my things and follow me." He says with a nasal whine. "I want to get to my room and freshen up before meeting the count." He looks around at the waterfront, upset that those around him arent showing the respect he feels he deserves, and disgusted that a man of his stature should have to be seen in a filthy place like this. Father, this will be the last time you will ever tell me what to do. After today everything will change!



In this short introduction, I have described his appearance, implied that he is of noble upbringing, shown his distaste for everyone and everything around him, let you know that he is here to do something for his father, and let you know that he has motives of his own.


Thank you Guardain A I've stickied this,Son Of Khaine