How to Make Life-Like NPC's with Robert from Dungeons, Dragons & Psychology
Jun 23, 2022
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Robert from Dungeons, Dragons & Psychology discusses the necessity of lifelike NPC's and what makes a good villain and ally. They also delve into the challenges of writing a murder mystery adventure and share tips for creating memorable NPCs in tabletop role-playing games.
Creating memorable NPCs involves giving them quirks, backstories, and distinct speech patterns, making them interesting and engaging for players.
When creating villains, adding complexity and internal struggle by portraying their belief in their cause, even if misguided, makes them more interesting and compelling.
Deep dives
Creating Memorable NPCs
One key aspect of creating memorable NPCs is to make them dynamic. NPCs should have quirks, personality traits, and backstories to make them interesting and engaging. Giving them distinct speech patterns or catchphrases can also help in making them stand out. Additionally, it's important to consider the role an NPC plays in the story - whether they are a quest giver, a source of information, or a comedic relief. Not every NPC needs to feel lifelike, but the important ones should have depth and uniqueness.
Developing Fleshed-Out Villains
When creating villains, it is helpful to think of them as believing they are the hero of their own story. The best villains often have a point that is morally right, but they go about achieving their goals in the wrong way. By adding complexity and internal struggle to villains, they become more interesting and compelling. This can be done by showing their belief in their cause, even if it is misguided, and making them three-dimensional characters rather than one-dimensional evildoers.
Balancing Heroes in D&D
Heroes in D&D should not be one-toned, but they also don't need to be goody-two-shoes. Every hero has light and dark within them, and it's important to portray them as flawed and human. Even paladins can struggle with darkness, and villains can have a glimmer of goodness within them. By showing the complexities and struggles of heroes, they become more relatable and interesting.
Tips for Creating NPCs on the Fly
Creating NPCs on the spot can be challenging but with practice, it becomes easier. One helpful technique is to scan the surroundings and use objects or names around you to create names for NPCs. Taking quick notes and jotting down the most important details about each NPC can help recall them later. When in a pinch, NPC generators can provide ideas for quick character creation. Being prepared and having a dedicated notebook or tool for NPC notes can save time and ensure consistency in character portrayal.
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