One of the most exciting parts of playing Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) is creating your own character. A well-crafted character can make the game more immersive and enjoyable for both you and your fellow players. In this article, we'll go over the steps for creating a character in D&D 5th edition, as well as some tips on creating a compelling backstory, bonds, and ideals. Character creation is an important aspect of Dungeons and Dragons, as it helps set the stage for your adventures and gives you a unique identity within the game.

Before diving into the character creation process, it's important to have a good understanding of the role you want to play in the game. Do you want to be a powerful warrior, a sly rogue, or a wise wizard? Each class has its own unique abilities and playstyle, so think about what kind of character you want to be before moving on to the next steps.

Step 1: Choose a Race

The first step in creating a character is choosing a race. In D&D, races are species that your character belongs to, such as human, elf, dwarf, or dragonborn. Each race has its own set of traits, such as natural abilities, special senses, and even cultural norms. For example, an elf might have keen senses and a love of nature, while a dragonborn might have breath weapons and a natural talent for magic.

There are many different races to choose from in D&D, and you should choose one that fits the kind of character you want to play. Some players like to base their character's race on their appearance, while others base it on the character's backstory or personality. Whatever you choose, make sure to read up on the race's traits and abilities so you know how they might affect your character.

Step 2: Choose a Class

The next step in character creation is choosing a class. In D&D, classes are the roles that your character plays in the game, such as fighter, wizard, rogue, or cleric. Each class has its own set of abilities and features, such as spells, fighting styles, and special skills.

There are many different classes to choose from in D&D, and each one offers a unique playstyle. For example, a fighter is a skilled warrior who excels at physical combat, while a wizard is a powerful spellcaster who can unleash devastating magic attacks. Choose a class that fits the kind of character you want to play, and make sure to read up on the class's abilities and features so you know how they might affect your character.

Step 3: Determine Ability Scores

After choosing your race and class, the next step is determining your character's ability scores. Ability scores are the six basic attributes that define your character's abilities and characteristics: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma.

There are a few different ways to determine your ability scores. The most common method is to use the point buy system, where you have a certain number of points to spend on each ability score. The higher the score, the more points it costs. This allows you to customize your character's abilities to fit the kind of character you want to play.

You can also use the standard array method, where you are given a set of pre-determined scores to assign to your abilities. This method is faster, but it doesn't allow for as much customization as the point buy system.

Step 4: Choose Skills and Feats

After determining your ability scores, the next step is to choose your character's skills and feats. Skills are abilities that your character is proficient in, such as athletics, perception, or persuasion. Feats are special abilities that your character can choose to gain, such as an extra attack or the ability to cast spells.

Step 5: Choose a Background

Your character's background helps to flesh out their history and give them a sense of place in the world. There are several different backgrounds to choose from in D&D 5th edition, including soldier, criminal, and noble. Choose a background that fits your character's backstory and personality.

Step 6: Equip Your Character

This aspect may be largely dictated by your Dungeon Master (DM) as there could be special equipment or scarcities integral to the story of your character and the world. Based on your character's class and background, you'll be given a certain amount of starting equipment. You can also purchase additional equipment using your starting gold.

Step 7: Create a Backstory

Now that we've gone over the basic process of character creation in D&D 5th edition, let's talk about some tips for creating compelling backstories, bonds, and ideals for your character.

One way to create a backstory is to think about your character's upbringing and the events that shaped their life. Were they raised in a wealthy household or did they have to fend for themselves on the streets? Did they have a happy childhood or were they plagued by tragedy? These kinds of questions can help you create a more rounded and believable character.

This can be as simple or as detailed as you want it to be, but it's important to have at least a basic understanding of where your character came from and what drives them. This will help you roleplay your character more effectively and give you a better sense of their motivations and actions during the game.

Another important aspect of character creation is bonds. These are the connections your character has to other people, places, or things. For example, your character might have a strong bond with their family, a particular location, or a cherished item. These bonds can help give your character depth and motivation, as they will be driven to protect or reclaim the things they hold dear.

In addition to bonds, it's also a good idea to give your character ideals. Ideals are the values and beliefs that guide your character's actions and decisions. They can be as simple as "honor" or "justice," or they can be more complex and nuanced. Ideals can help give your character a sense of purpose and can also provide interesting roleplaying opportunities as you navigate moral dilemmas in the game.

Character creation in D&D 5th edition is a fun and exciting process that allows you to create a unique and compelling character to play in the game. By choosing a race, class, and determining your ability scores, skills, and feats, you can craft a character that fits your desired playstyle and personality. Don't be afraid to experiment and try out different combinations, and remember to have fun with it!

Thank you for stopping by the Inn at the End, don’t forget to subscribe to this blog and, if you’re into podcasts, be sure to check out Inn at the End on your favorite podcast app.

Grab your sword and keep on adventuring!

-The Inn Keeper

Enjoy this content? Become an INN-habitant and never miss another episode by following us. We will never misuse or sell your information.

The Basics: Tips for Character Creation