Chargen

Chargen, short for character generation, is the process by which players create their player character for a role-playing game. It encompasses defining who the character is, what abilities they possess, how they look, and what starting resources they bring into the game. Chargen helps establish role, power level, and backstory, and it often influences how players interact with the game world and with other characters.

In most systems, chargen includes several core elements. Players typically choose or define a concept or role, select race or species and class or profession, and allocate or determine ability scores or attributes. They may pick skills, talents, or powers, determine hit points or health, and select starting equipment or wealth. Background details, alignment, and personality traits or life paths are common additions that can affect starting resources or narrative hooks. Some games also include appearance options and backstory generation to enhance immersion.

Methods for assigning attributes vary. Point-buy lets players distribute a fixed pool of points, standard arrays provide a preset set of scores, and random rolling yields variability. Digital games may streamline chargen with presets, guided choices, or automated optimization checks to balance play. In tabletop games, chargen often interacts with campaign rules, house interpretations, or optional constraints to tailor difficulty and tone.

Variations exist across systems. Some favor rapid, streamlined creation to begin play quickly; others emphasize in-depth world-building and mechanical nuance. A well-designed chargen supports new players, maintains balance, and fosters engagement, while overly lengthy or complex processes can create barriers to entry.