Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is a captivating tabletop role-playing game that immerses players in fantastical worlds filled with magic, monsters, and heroism. One of the crucial decisions new players make is choosing a background for their characters. A character’s background shapes their past and influences their skills, personality traits, and connections, offering a mix of versatility, intrigue, and storytelling potential.
1 Acolyte
Characters with the Acolyte background have spent their lives in service to a temple, honing their knowledge of religious rituals and traditions. This background provides proficiency in Insight and Religion and access to two additional languages. It’s a rich foundation for characters who seek wisdom, divine guidance, or a moral compass.
2 Folk Hero
Born of humble origins, Folk Heroes are champions of the ordinary people whose deeds, whether big or small, have elevated them to heroic status in the eyes of their community. Proficiency in Animal Handling and Survival and proficiency with artisan’s tools make this background ideal for players who want a character with a solid connection to their roots and a reputation for standing up against injustice.
3 Sage
Sages are scholars and researchers driven by a thirst for knowledge. They might be wizards studying ancient tomes or historians chronicling past events. Proficiency in Arcana and History and two additional languages make this background suitable for characters who value intellect, curiosity, and the pursuit of unraveling mysteries.
4 Criminal
Characters with a Criminal background have a history of illegal activities, whether as thieves, smugglers, or spies. They thrive in the shadows and navigate the criminal underworld with finesse. Proficiency in Deception and Stealth, along with a set of thieves’ tools, adds an element of intrigue and cunning to a character’s backstory.
5 Entertainer
Entertainers are performers, artists, or musicians who captivate audiences with their talents. They might be bards, jesters, or dancers traveling from place to place. Proficiency in Acrobatics and Performance and a musical instrument of their choice make this background perfect for players who want a character with a flair for drama and a passion for entertaining others.
6 Guild Artisan
Guild Artisans are skilled craftsmen, merchants, or artisans who belong to a particular guild or trade organization. They are masters of their craft and often work in bustling urban environments. Proficiency in Insight and Persuasion and proficiency with artisan’s tools make this background suitable for business-minded, well-connected characters with a talent for negotiation.
7 Hermit
Hermits have chosen a life of seclusion and solitude, whether for spiritual contemplation or to escape the complexities of society. They might be wise sages or eccentric mystics. Proficiency in Medicine and Religion and a herbalism kit add a mysterious and reflective element to a character, making them ideal for players who enjoy a more solitary path.
8 Noble
Nobles hail from privileged backgrounds, born into wealth and power. They might be heirs to a prestigious family or rulers of a small domain. Proficiency in History and Persuasion and proficiency with a gaming set offer opportunities for characters to grapple with their responsibilities and navigate the complexities of high society.
9 Outlander
Outlanders are rugged individuals who have lived in the wilderness, far from the comforts of civilization. They might be hunters, trappers, or nomads. Proficiency in Athletics and Survival and a musical instrument make this background excellent for characters who thrive in nature and seek adventure in the untamed wilderness.
10 Urchin
Urchins grew up on the streets, learning to survive through cunning and resourcefulness. They are street-smart and adept at navigating the urban jungle. Proficiency in Sleight of Hand and Stealth and thieves’ tools add a gritty and resourceful edge to a character’s backstory.
The right background is crucial in creating a well-rounded and engaging Dungeons & Dragons character. It provides diverse options, unique skills, flavor, and story potential to the player’s narrative. Whether your character is a scholarly sage, a street-savvy urchin, or a noble with a troubled past, the background chosen will shape their journey through the realms of Dungeons & Dragons, adding depth and richness to their epic tale.
