Question 1

How should character backstories be created in Dungeons and Dragons?

Accepted Answer

Character backstories should be unique to each player and not overly complicated. They serve as a means of communication between the DM and players, helping guide players and provide direction. Having NPC connections in backstories can assist players, and narrative story arcs and character development are important aspects to consider.

Question 2

Why are character backgrounds a hot topic and how can they cause disagreements among players in Dungeons and Dragons?

Accepted Answer

Character backgrounds are important in D&D as they can influence the campaign's direction and provide tools for the DM. However, disagreements can arise when players have differing opinions on the backgrounds or when they don't align with the campaign.

Question 3

How can a weak character backstory limit options and creativity in a tabletop role-playing game?

Accepted Answer

A weak character backstory can limit options and creativity by providing fewer hooks and opportunities for the player to engage with the story and other characters. It's important to continuously develop and expand a character's backstory for a more engaging gameplay experience.

Question 4

How can players align their character backgrounds with the campaign in Dungeons and Dragons?

Accepted Answer

Communication between the DM and players before the game starts is crucial to aligning character backgrounds with the campaign. Players can come to the DM with a list of potential story elements to explore, ensuring a cohesive group and motivations.

Question 5

How do character backgrounds play a role in building plots in tabletop role-playing games?

Accepted Answer

Character backgrounds play a crucial role in building plots by providing hooks, connections, and motivations for the characters. The DM can use this information to provide relevant information and make the game more engaging.

Question 6

How does playing a character similar to oneself in a role-playing game promote personal growth?

Accepted Answer

Playing a character similar to oneself in a role-playing game can promote personal growth because it allows for easy entry into roleplay, and with a good DM guiding the character's development, the player can experience growth and change within the game.

Question 7

Why is it important for player characters to change and grow throughout a Dungeons and Dragons campaign?

Accepted Answer

It is important for player characters to change and grow throughout a campaign because it creates a dynamic and engaging story. The goal is to make each player feel like a part of the story and work well with the party.

Question 8

How can Mass Effect or other role-playing games affect players emotionally?

Accepted Answer

Games like Mass Effect can affect players emotionally because the choices made in the game can align with the player's real-life values, leading to emotional attachment to the characters and story. Playing a D&D game with a similar approach can also have a similar impact.

Question 9

What role does personal biases play in character backstories in role-playing games?

Accepted Answer

Personal biases can affect character backstories, and sometimes having other players write a character's backstory can help prevent biases from impacting the narrative. It adds variety and perspective to the backgrounds.

Question 10

How can players ensure party cohesion and motivations for adventuring together in D&D?

Accepted Answer

Players can ensure party cohesion and motivations by having a session zero where they discuss and create connections between their characters. This helps ensure a cohesive group and align their goals with the game's narrative.

Question 11

What can players do if their chosen background doesn't fit into a campaign in Dungeons and Dragons?

Accepted Answer

If a player's chosen background doesn't fit into a campaign, they should communicate with the DM. The DM can provide guidance and suggestions on how to adapt the background or work together to find a suitable alternative.

S1-011: Backgrounds and how to use them better.

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S1-012: Backgrounds Part 2: Getting a feel for your character

Session Zero - S1-011: Backgrounds and how to use them better.

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