Hello! I'm super new to DnD, like haven't even played one game new and know very little about the game itself. I'm going to learn more before looking for a campaign but there is something I need help with. I have two characters I could play as, one multiclassed and one not.
So because I'm not the brightest sometimes and didn't realize I could just play the first character single classed and then add on the second class when I was more experienced I made another character. The problem now is, I don't know which would be the better character to play with my exprience lvl. (also keep in mind I'm still fleshing them out.)
The first one is Fharen, a nonbinary high-elf that is a druid/bard.
Backstory:
I was taken in by a fellow High Elf, Ravaynore, in Faerun as a baby. I do not know anything about my birth family. I left Faerun once I became an adult to explore my interests and now live in a small town where I work in a library.
Personality Traits:
I’m used to helping out those who aren’t as smart as I am, and I patiently explain anything and everything to others. I’m willing to listen to every side of an argument before I make my own judgment.
Ideals:
Knowledge. The path to power and self-improvement is through knowledge.(Neutral)
Self-Improvement. The goal of a life of study is the betterment of oneself. (Any)
Bonds:
I work to preserve a library, university, scriptorium, or monastery.
My life’s work is a series of tomes related to a specific field of lore.
I’ve been searching my whole life for the answer to a certain question.
Flaws:
I speak without really thinking through my words, invariably insulting others.
Organizations:
The library I work at.
(They have no allies or enemies in the beginning.)
Reason for Adventuring:
Looking for an answer to a question a dead colleague has given me and to learn about my birth family.
The second character is a nonbinary human paladin named Brylen Melmtor.
Backstory:
Once worked for a corrupt King as his most loyal servant. Grew up with said King and was his best friend, because of this they didn’t see all the harm he was doing and was even doing harm themself. After they realized the true nature of their friend they abandoned him and are now trying to atone for their past actions.
Personality Traits:
I don’t talk about the thing that torments me. I’d rather not burden others with my curse.
I refuse to become a victim, and I will not allow others to be victimized.
Ideals:
I try to help those in need, no matter what the personal cost. (Good)
I kill monsters to make the world a safer place, and to exorcise my own demons. (Good)
I’ll stop the spirits that haunt me or die trying. (Any)
Bonds:
I would sacrifice my life and my soul to protect the innocent.
A terrible guilt consumes me. I hope that I can find redemption through my actions.
Flaws:
I assume the worst in people.
I feel no compassion for the dead. They’re the lucky ones.
Enemies:
The Ecaivaria Kingdom and their King, Ceisos.
(They have no allies or organizations in the beginning.)
Reason for Adventuring:
To atone for their past actions.
So yeah, any advice would be super helpful! Let me know what you guys think!
If you're new, I would recommend not multi classing. It'll add a level of headache on top of already learning the somewhat confusing concept of spells/slots/levels for Casters. Why do you want to multiclass? If it's for the aesthetic flavor of it, then you'll have no problem reskinning a single class to fit your needs. If it's for mechanical reasons, I'd recommend playing one of the classes straight first, and understanding the mechanics of the one. Then you'll start to see the pros and cons of adding the second. This is especially true with Druid/Bard, which sounds fun but is functionally not optimal (they have different spellcasting abilities to use - Wisdom & Charisma, plus the other abilities like Dex and Con you'd want to have a decent score in).
As for which of the two in a backstory sense - the first doesn't have many 'DM Hooks' in their backstory, in the sense that they don't have ways for the DM to bring the character in or make the character care about the plot. They have a note that a colleague gave them - maybe expand on that idea a bit. What kinds of friends, rivals, enemies, could they have? Surely this librarian isn't completely alone.
The second character is better, but there's a chance that this level of 'epic' backstory will make you fall into the role of Main Character, which isn't a place you want to be. DnD is all about sharing the spotlight with friends and allies. If you're okay with the DM sequestering your corrupt king off somewhere far away, and leaving it squarely in the past (or only occasionally coming up), then great! But I wouldn't expect your backstory to have much serious bearing on the plot that the DM pushes, unless they're specifically focusing on your backstory.
Both are decent in their own way, and the great part about the game is that you can theory craft characters all day long! Then when the time comes to play, you can choose which one best fits the setting/theme/vibe of the game. I myself have probably over a dozen character concepts that I'd love to play, but realistically will only ever really flesh out a few at the table.
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I know what you're thinking: "In that flurry of blows, did he use all his ki points, or save one?" Well, are ya feeling lucky, punk?
Thank you for your advice! Yeah, like I said still fleshing them out, I want to get a greater understanding of the game and how to build a good character before I bring either one of them to a session. I will keep all of this in mind!
For the first character I just thought a druid/bard sounded cool, I don't really care about what's 'optimal' per say I just wanna have fun without making things too hard for myself. If I were to go with that character I would definitely keep them single-classed for a bit while I figured out how to actually play the game.
For the second character I'd be totally cool with the DM doing that! Their backstory is a way for me to explain how they are now, like it affects how they make decisions and stuff. My idea for it is that it's just recently happened so it's still affecting them and they're still working through their emotions on it, but I don't wanna overshadow anyone either.
This was all really helpful, I know like nothing about the mechanics of this game. But, I'm really excited to play!
Thank you for your advice! Yeah, like I said still fleshing them out, I want to get a greater understanding of the game and how to build a good character before I bring either one of them to a session. I will keep all of this in mind!
For the first character I just thought a druid/bard sounded cool, I don't really care about what's 'optimal' per say I just wanna have fun without making things too hard for myself. If I were to go with that character I would definitely keep them single-classed for a bit while I figured out how to actually play the game.
For the second character I'd be totally cool with the DM doing that! Their backstory is a way for me to explain how they are now, like it affects how they make decisions and stuff. My idea for it is that it's just recently happened so it's still affecting them and they're still working through their emotions on it, but I don't wanna overshadow anyone either.
This was all really helpful, I know like nothing about the mechanics of this game. But, I'm really excited to play!
I think you've got the right idea on the purpose of the backstory. I probably end up putting too much thought into my characters' backstories, but I think of more as guide for the character's motivations. Most adventures will have little to nothing to do with your backstory. In your second character's case, they want to atone for the hurt they've caused others in the past so that might influence how they react to certain situations - they may feel some empathy for henchmen for example. Or it may influence which spells they choose to learn (for example they might take a healing spell, or a spell like Hold Person instead of a damage-causing spell). Go and have fun with your backstory and use it to fuel your role playing. One of my characters is a Hafling sorcerer who was bullied and it turned him from the "cheerful and affable" hafling described in the PHB into an angry and short-tempered hafling who likes to cast fire spells. Because of his backstory he's very likely to fly off the handle and do something impulsive at the slightest hint of someone trying to push him around.
"...at worst if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."
Thank you for your advice! Yeah, like I said still fleshing them out, I want to get a greater understanding of the game and how to build a good character before I bring either one of them to a session. I will keep all of this in mind!
For the first character I just thought a druid/bard sounded cool, I don't really care about what's 'optimal' per say I just wanna have fun without making things too hard for myself. If I were to go with that character I would definitely keep them single-classed for a bit while I figured out how to actually play the game.
For the second character I'd be totally cool with the DM doing that! Their backstory is a way for me to explain how they are now, like it affects how they make decisions and stuff. My idea for it is that it's just recently happened so it's still affecting them and they're still working through their emotions on it, but I don't wanna overshadow anyone either.
This was all really helpful, I know like nothing about the mechanics of this game. But, I'm really excited to play!
I think you've got the right idea on the purpose of the backstory. I probably end up putting too much thought into my characters' backstories, but I think of more as guide for the character's motivations. Most adventures will have little to nothing to do with your backstory. In your second character's case, they want to atone for the hurt they've caused others in the past so that might influence how they react to certain situations - they may feel some empathy for henchmen for example. Or it may influence which spells they choose to learn (for example they might take a healing spell, or a spell like Hold Person instead of a damage-causing spell). Go and have fun with your backstory and use it to fuel your role playing. One of my characters is a Hafling sorcerer who was bullied and it turned him from the "cheerful and affable" hafling described in the PHB into an angry and short-tempered hafling who likes to cast fire spells. Because of his backstory he's very likely to fly off the handle and do something impulsive at the slightest hint of someone trying to push him around.
Have fun!
P.S. - I dig your Owl House Avatar!
Yeah, that's my idea for it, less focusing on the events themself, more focusing on how they affect my character. I really like the idea of a Paladin with a haunted one's backstory, I like the idea of someone in the class known for being honorable and just not always being like that, I think it'll be interesting to explore in game.
Your character sounds super cool! It's really interesting how someone's backstory can affect how they are in the present in a game like this. Leaves the door open for a bunch of different personalities.
Thank you! TOH is one of the best cartoons ever imo.
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Hello! I'm super new to DnD, like haven't even played one game new and know very little about the game itself. I'm going to learn more before looking for a campaign but there is something I need help with. I have two characters I could play as, one multiclassed and one not.
So because I'm not the brightest sometimes and didn't realize I could just play the first character single classed and then add on the second class when I was more experienced I made another character. The problem now is, I don't know which would be the better character to play with my exprience lvl. (also keep in mind I'm still fleshing them out.)
The first one is Fharen, a nonbinary high-elf that is a druid/bard.
Backstory:
I was taken in by a fellow High Elf, Ravaynore, in Faerun as a baby. I do not know anything about my birth family. I left Faerun once I became an adult to explore my interests and now live in a small town where I work in a library.
Personality Traits:
I’m used to helping out those who aren’t as smart as I am, and I patiently explain anything and everything to others. I’m willing to listen to every side of an argument before I make my own judgment.
Ideals:
Knowledge. The path to power and self-improvement is through knowledge.(Neutral)
Self-Improvement. The goal of a life of study is the betterment of oneself. (Any)
Bonds:
I work to preserve a library, university, scriptorium, or monastery.
My life’s work is a series of tomes related to a specific field of lore.
I’ve been searching my whole life for the answer to a certain question.
Flaws:
I speak without really thinking through my words, invariably insulting others.
Organizations:
The library I work at.
(They have no allies or enemies in the beginning.)
Reason for Adventuring:
Looking for an answer to a question a dead colleague has given me and to learn about my birth family.
The second character is a nonbinary human paladin named Brylen Melmtor.
Backstory:
Once worked for a corrupt King as his most loyal servant. Grew up with said King and was his best friend, because of this they didn’t see all the harm he was doing and was even doing harm themself. After they realized the true nature of their friend they abandoned him and are now trying to atone for their past actions.
Personality Traits:
I don’t talk about the thing that torments me. I’d rather not burden others with my curse.
I refuse to become a victim, and I will not allow others to be victimized.
Ideals:
I try to help those in need, no matter what the personal cost. (Good)
I kill monsters to make the world a safer place, and to exorcise my own demons. (Good)
I’ll stop the spirits that haunt me or die trying. (Any)
Bonds:
I would sacrifice my life and my soul to protect the innocent.
A terrible guilt consumes me. I hope that I can find redemption through my actions.
Flaws:
I assume the worst in people.
I feel no compassion for the dead. They’re the lucky ones.
Enemies:
The Ecaivaria Kingdom and their King, Ceisos.
(They have no allies or organizations in the beginning.)
Reason for Adventuring:
To atone for their past actions.
So yeah, any advice would be super helpful! Let me know what you guys think!
If you're new, I would recommend not multi classing. It'll add a level of headache on top of already learning the somewhat confusing concept of spells/slots/levels for Casters. Why do you want to multiclass? If it's for the aesthetic flavor of it, then you'll have no problem reskinning a single class to fit your needs. If it's for mechanical reasons, I'd recommend playing one of the classes straight first, and understanding the mechanics of the one. Then you'll start to see the pros and cons of adding the second. This is especially true with Druid/Bard, which sounds fun but is functionally not optimal (they have different spellcasting abilities to use - Wisdom & Charisma, plus the other abilities like Dex and Con you'd want to have a decent score in).
As for which of the two in a backstory sense - the first doesn't have many 'DM Hooks' in their backstory, in the sense that they don't have ways for the DM to bring the character in or make the character care about the plot. They have a note that a colleague gave them - maybe expand on that idea a bit. What kinds of friends, rivals, enemies, could they have? Surely this librarian isn't completely alone.
The second character is better, but there's a chance that this level of 'epic' backstory will make you fall into the role of Main Character, which isn't a place you want to be. DnD is all about sharing the spotlight with friends and allies. If you're okay with the DM sequestering your corrupt king off somewhere far away, and leaving it squarely in the past (or only occasionally coming up), then great! But I wouldn't expect your backstory to have much serious bearing on the plot that the DM pushes, unless they're specifically focusing on your backstory.
Both are decent in their own way, and the great part about the game is that you can theory craft characters all day long! Then when the time comes to play, you can choose which one best fits the setting/theme/vibe of the game. I myself have probably over a dozen character concepts that I'd love to play, but realistically will only ever really flesh out a few at the table.
I know what you're thinking: "In that flurry of blows, did he use all his ki points, or save one?" Well, are ya feeling lucky, punk?
Thank you for your advice! Yeah, like I said still fleshing them out, I want to get a greater understanding of the game and how to build a good character before I bring either one of them to a session. I will keep all of this in mind!
For the first character I just thought a druid/bard sounded cool, I don't really care about what's 'optimal' per say I just wanna have fun without making things too hard for myself. If I were to go with that character I would definitely keep them single-classed for a bit while I figured out how to actually play the game.
For the second character I'd be totally cool with the DM doing that! Their backstory is a way for me to explain how they are now, like it affects how they make decisions and stuff. My idea for it is that it's just recently happened so it's still affecting them and they're still working through their emotions on it, but I don't wanna overshadow anyone either.
This was all really helpful, I know like nothing about the mechanics of this game. But, I'm really excited to play!
I think you've got the right idea on the purpose of the backstory. I probably end up putting too much thought into my characters' backstories, but I think of more as guide for the character's motivations. Most adventures will have little to nothing to do with your backstory. In your second character's case, they want to atone for the hurt they've caused others in the past so that might influence how they react to certain situations - they may feel some empathy for henchmen for example. Or it may influence which spells they choose to learn (for example they might take a healing spell, or a spell like Hold Person instead of a damage-causing spell). Go and have fun with your backstory and use it to fuel your role playing. One of my characters is a Hafling sorcerer who was bullied and it turned him from the "cheerful and affable" hafling described in the PHB into an angry and short-tempered hafling who likes to cast fire spells. Because of his backstory he's very likely to fly off the handle and do something impulsive at the slightest hint of someone trying to push him around.
Have fun!
P.S. - I dig your Owl House Avatar!
"...at worst if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."
Yeah, that's my idea for it, less focusing on the events themself, more focusing on how they affect my character. I really like the idea of a Paladin with a haunted one's backstory, I like the idea of someone in the class known for being honorable and just not always being like that, I think it'll be interesting to explore in game.
Your character sounds super cool! It's really interesting how someone's backstory can affect how they are in the present in a game like this. Leaves the door open for a bunch of different personalities.
Thank you! TOH is one of the best cartoons ever imo.