10 Easy Roleplaying Traits for your TTRPG Characters!

Summary

In this engaging video, Monty Martin and Kelly Mlin, known as the Dungeon Dudes, introduce viewers to 10 role-playing traits that can enliven any Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) character or RPG avatar. They clarify that deep backstory isn't necessary for effective role-play, emphasizing simple quirks and decisions influenced by character mentality. The traits range from the 'Brave Fool' to the 'Sleeve Ball Salesman,' each offering unique ways to interact within the game and develop rich narratives that enhance the overall D&D experience.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Role-playing a character in tabletop RPGs like D&D doesn't require a fully fleshed-out character or Oscar-worthy acting skills; simple quirks and ideas can bring a character to life.
• 📚 A well-written backstory provides motivation and goals, but role-playing also involves character personality, likes, interests, quirks, and flaws that influence decision-making at the table.
• 💡 The video suggests 10 role-playing traits that can be layered on top of a character's motivations to add depth and influence gameplay.
• 🤷‍♂️ Avoid relying solely on common motivations like being a mercenary, do-gooder, or seeking revenge; these are foundational but not unique role-playing traits.
• 😜 The 'Brave Fool' trait involves reckless overconfidence, often leading to trouble but also being a driving force for engaging with the game's plot hooks.
• 🤑 'Insatiable Greed or Appetites' can make a character easily distracted by specific items or desires, adding a layer of complexity to their decision-making.
• 📖 'Quoth the Raven' involves a character who quotes from a book, scripture, or philosophy, requiring preparation but offering an easy trait to role-play at the table.
• 📜 'By the Book' characters live by a personal code of guidelines and rules, which can create interesting conflicts when faced with situations that challenge their code.
• 👻 'Irrational Fears or Superstitions' add a quirky dimension to a character, potentially leading to humorous or challenging situations in the game.
• 🌱 'Hopelessly Naive' characters see the good in everyone and can get into trouble due to their trusting nature, offering opportunities for character growth and development.
• 😅 'Affably Dimwitted' characters may not be the brightest but can have unique forms of intelligence and offer comic relief and heart to the game.
• 🤓 'Socially Awkward Extrovert' characters can be extroverted but awkward in social interactions, providing a relatable and entertaining role-playing aspect.
• 🎨 'Sleight of Hand Salesman' characters are skilled at deception and storytelling, often leading to complex webs of lies that can create dramatic moments in the game.
• ❤️ 'Caregiver' characters are fiercely loyal and protective of their group, often acting as the emotional glue that holds the party together.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video by Monty Martin and Kelly Mlin?

The main purpose of the video is to help viewers understand and develop role-playing traits for their characters in tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons (D&D), making the process easier and more enjoyable.

Why is role-playing a character not as daunting as some people might think?

Role-playing a character is not as daunting because it doesn't require a fully fleshed-out character with actor-level personification. Simple quirks and ideas can bring a character to life and influence decision-making at the table.

What is the importance of a character's backstory in role-playing?

A character's backstory is important as it provides motivation, goals, and reasons for going on adventures. It guides the character's actions and interactions with non-player characters, the environment, and other player characters.

Why should a character's personality, likes, and interests be considered in role-playing?

A character's personality, likes, and interests add depth and make the character more fun to play. These traits influence how the character behaves and acts, making the role-playing experience more engaging and immersive.

What is the 'Brave Fool' archetype and how does it influence a character's actions?

The 'Brave Fool' archetype represents a character with reckless overconfidence, who may not make the best decisions but is ready to face danger. This character often gets into trouble but is also good at bringing the group into plot hooks and is not easily demotivated.

Can you explain the 'Insatiable Greed or Appetites' trait and its potential impact on a character's decisions?

The 'Insatiable Greed or Appetites' trait describes a character driven by a strong desire for specific items or experiences. This greed can lead the character to go out of their way to acquire what they want, often leading to interesting situations and conflicts within the game.

What is the 'Quo The Raven' role-playing trait and how does it work?

The 'Quo The Raven' trait involves a character who quotes phrases from a book, holy text, philosophy, or songs. This requires preparation, such as collecting quotes or learning songs, and can be a fun and easy trait to play once the work is done.

How does the 'By The Book' archetype influence a character's moral compass and decision-making?

The 'By The Book' archetype represents a character who adheres to a strict set of personal guidelines and rules. This moral code influences their decisions and actions, and can lead to character development as they encounter situations that challenge their code.

What is the 'Irrational Fears or Superstitions' trait and how can it be used in role-playing?

The 'Irrational Fears or Superstitions' trait gives a character quirky fears or beliefs that can be used by the Dungeon Master to create interesting scenarios. These fears can lead to humorous or challenging situations for the character and the group.

How does the 'Hopelessly Naive' character approach trust and social interactions?

The 'Hopelessly Naive' character tends to see the good in everyone and is overly trusting. This can lead to them getting into trouble but also allows for character development as they learn to navigate a complex world while maintaining their optimism.

What is the 'Affably Dimwitted' archetype and how does it contribute to the group dynamic?

The 'Affably Dimwitted' archetype is a character who has a positive outlook on life but may not be the brightest. They can provide comic relief and show that intelligence comes in many forms, often proving smart in unexpected ways.

Can you describe the 'Socially Awkward Extrovert' trait and its potential for humorous interactions?

The 'Socially Awkward Extrovert' trait describes a character who tries to engage socially but often does so awkwardly. This can lead to humorous situations and interactions, making the character endearing and relatable.

What is the 'SLE Ball Salesman' archetype and how might it affect the group's experiences?

The 'SLE Ball Salesman' archetype is a character who is always self-aggrandizing and willing to lie to manage risks. This can lead to a web of lies and trouble, providing opportunities for interesting storylines and character growth.

How does the 'Caregiver' role influence a character's actions and relationships within the group?

The 'Caregiver' role represents a character who is fiercely loyal and protective of their group, often acting as a parental or mentoring figure. They may face challenges in managing the group's dynamics and dealing with betrayal or emotional strain.