Last Updated: July 15, 2025
Character Creation Steps
1. Choose RaceHuman, Elf, Dwarf, Halfling, etc. — determines ability bonuses and special traits
2. Choose ClassFighter, Wizard, Rogue, Cleric, etc. — your role in the party
3. Determine Ability ScoresStandard Array: 15,14,13,12,10,8. Point Buy, or Roll 4d6 drop lowest.
4. Choose BackgroundSoldier, Sage, Criminal, etc. — skills, tools, and backstory hooks
5. Choose EquipmentStarting gear from class + background. Or roll for starting gold and buy.
Ability Scores
| Score | Modifier | Important For |
|---|---|---|
| 10-11 | +0 | Average human |
| 14-15 | +2 | Your secondary stat |
| 16-17 | +3 | Your primary stat — put your highest here |
| 18-19 | +4 | Exceptional — requires racial bonus or ASI |
Class Ability Priorities
| Class | Primary | Secondary |
|---|---|---|
| Barbarian | Strength | Constitution |
| Bard | Charisma | Dexterity |
| Cleric | Wisdom | Strength or Constitution |
| Fighter | Strength or Dex | Constitution |
| Wizard | Intelligence | Constitution or Dexterity |
Alignment
| Lawful | Neutral | Chaotic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good | Follows rules to help others | Helps by any means | Freedom above all, but kind |
| Neutral | Rules are rules | True neutral | Personal freedom, no moral stance |
| Evil | Uses rules to exploit | Selfish, no code | Destruction and chaos |
Pro Tip: Build a character, not a stat block. The best D&D characters have flaws, not just strengths. A Cleric who doubts their faith or a Fighter terrified of spiders is infinitely more interesting than a 'perfect' hero. Your dump stat creates your best roleplaying moments.