* 4) CHARACTER CREATION *

Learn how to create a character in Neverwinter Nights. Explore customization options, character concepts, and class flexibility to build your ideal adventurer.

Before you can play Neverwinter Nights you first have to decide what type of character you want to play. There is a great deal of room for customization, so this may seem a little intimidating at first. It is best to remember that there are no good or bad characters and different people appreciate different aspects of the game. You can create any number of characters so feel free to experiment.

One way to navigate the Character Creation process is to start with a character concept. Many roleplayers enjoy mimicking figures from history, myth, or pop culture. Those who enjoy a challenge sometimes construct a flawed character, perhaps one who is sickly or a bit of a buffoon. Perhaps they might take a classical stereotype and play it in a new and refreshing manner, like a Dwarven Barbarian who is scholarly or prefers a sling to an axe. Regardless of where the inspiration comes from, once you have a concept the process of character creation is much easier.

Neverwinter Nights has a very flexible system for character modification, so don't worry much about the decisions you make early on. For example, you might create a Gnome Barbarian to prove to other players that Gnomes make the best warriors, but after awhile realize that you are spending more time glorifying him with tales and poems than actually fighting. At that point he could become a Bard, a class better suited to that style of play. He would still have his Barbarian roots but could freely advance as a Bard thereafter. Remember, much of the fun of Dungeons & Dragons is in watching your character grow and change.

Creating a character is exciting but it can be a daunting process. If you are ever unsure of how to proceed past a screen, or if you aren't sure how to make the best decision, press the Recommended button and the program will make a good choice for you. You can also return to the beginning of the process and select a "Package," which is a set of Feats and Skills chosen around a particular theme. Here's a list of all the things you must decide on to create a character: