01. Choose a Background
When creating a character, players pick one background which defines a character's past experiences and training within their eventual chosen Trade. It determines the initial points a player can allocate in various areas to represent areas of focus and opportunity the character had during their early development.
When a Background is selected a number of points are distributed across several categories: Traits, Skills, Tradecraft, and Resources. Note these points down, they'll be spent in step 4.
Things to remember, if you want a character with many skills for example - choose a background with a high number of points in Skills. Likewise if you want more than a single Tradecraft, look at the background that grant more than 1 point.
Backgrounds
Know it All
Choosing the "Know It All" reveals a character who prioritises broad intellectual pursuits over practical skills or resource acquisition. They excel in varied areas of knowledge, as shown by their high allocation of points to Skills. Traits also receive a fair number of points, indicating innate abilities that augment their scholarly prowess. However, Tradecraft and Resources receive fewer points, reflecting a lack of practical application of their knowledge or access to significant resources. Their strength lies in their intellect, and they rely on this above all else.
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Traits | 2 |
| Skills | 3 |
| Tradecraft | 1 |
| Resources | 1 |
Naturally Talented
Choosing the "Naturally Talented" signifies that your character is blessed with innate abilities and a natural aptitude. Your character might not have had specific training or academic exposure, but their raw talent has always enabled them to grasp concepts and master skills more easily than others. This background provides ample points to assign to Traits, showcasing their innate abilities. Skills also receive a generous allocation, reflecting the character's natural proficiency, while Tradecraft and Resources are more modestly assigned, indicating that they did not have had a wealth of resources or specialised training to hone their talents.
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Traits | 3 |
| Skills | 2 |
| Tradecraft | 1 |
| Resources | 1 |
Master Apprentice
The "Master Apprentice" background represents a character who has devoted their life to the honing of a specific craft under the guidance of a skilled mentor. They are highly skilled individuals who excel in their chosen area, reflected by a high allocation of points to Skills. Furthermore, they possess a good understanding of their profession's practical applications, demonstrated by starting with 2 Tradecraft. Although they might lack inherent Traits or financial resources, their dedication to their craft more than compensates for these deficiencies.
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Traits | 1 |
| Skills | 3 |
| Tradecraft | 2 |
| Resources | 1 |
Jack of All
You are someone who has spent a lot of time on their Trade, but has also relied on their natural abilities as well. You have a fairly well rounded background, but you haven’t excelled in any one area and that suited you fine.
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Traits | 2 |
| Skills | 2 |
| Tradecraft | 2 |
| Resources | 1 |
Rolling in It
A life of luxury and financial security defines the "Rolling in it" background. Your character's substantial resources reflect their privilege, be it from a wealthy birth or a beneficial windfall. Your character has neglected the practical application of their skills and trade knowledge. Although they come to their adventures with considerable resources and personal potential, their lack of direct experience may pose an initial challenge.
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Traits | 2 |
| Skills | 1 |
| Tradecraft | 1 |
| Resources | 3 |
Chosen One
The "Chosen One" is an optional background package that's granted at the discretion of the game master, primarily designed to facilitate the smooth integration of a new character into an ongoing campaign with experienced characters.
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Traits | 2 |
| Skills | 2 |
| Tradecraft | 2 |
| Resources | 3 |