I'm DMing my first campaign, and I figured running a module would probably be the best place to start. I like that it gives me a very structured plotline to follow with NPCs, maps, encounters, etc. already laid out. But, I also really enjoy character development, and I don't want my players to feel like I'm ignoring the backstories they've sent me. I just can't figure out how to get the best of both worlds - including personal touches while still maintaining the structure of the module. Any advice?
Just... do? Replace NPC's with backstory characters, find moments that drive their personal stories forward within the normal story and drive those home, find an excuse to divert into a subplot about one of their backstories.
Without a lot of information (character backstories, which module you're doing, etc.), there's not a lot of specific advice we could give.
Some people get carried away with their backstory. Don't feel obligated to incorporate them. Sometimes, someone will have a backstory that makes it easy to involve all the characters, I'd work with that first. Remember, you can always use backstory ideas 1 on 1 or during Downtime as well. Backstory elements should be bonus material, not a burden.
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I'm DMing my first campaign, and I figured running a module would probably be the best place to start. I like that it gives me a very structured plotline to follow with NPCs, maps, encounters, etc. already laid out. But, I also really enjoy character development, and I don't want my players to feel like I'm ignoring the backstories they've sent me. I just can't figure out how to get the best of both worlds - including personal touches while still maintaining the structure of the module. Any advice?
Iris - Tiefling Cleric | Cassandra - Elf Warlock | Solace - Tiefling Monk | Tempest - Hexblood Monk | Lex - Fire Genasi Barbarian
Lilyn - Triton Ranger | Candor - Changeling Bard | Echo - Changeling Warlock/Bard | Rowan - Fairy Wizard
Just... do? Replace NPC's with backstory characters, find moments that drive their personal stories forward within the normal story and drive those home, find an excuse to divert into a subplot about one of their backstories.
Without a lot of information (character backstories, which module you're doing, etc.), there's not a lot of specific advice we could give.
Some people get carried away with their backstory. Don't feel obligated to incorporate them. Sometimes, someone will have a backstory that makes it easy to involve all the characters, I'd work with that first. Remember, you can always use backstory ideas 1 on 1 or during Downtime as well. Backstory elements should be bonus material, not a burden.