Character Motivation

Why do PCs do what they do? When you’re creating a new character, do you even give this any thought? Fame and fortune are probably the most common motives for 1st level adventurers, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but is that your PC’s only motivation?

In many cases the DM creates a long-term campaign with a huge story arc designed around a single motivation. It might be something as noble as recovering a stolen artifact or as simple as seeking revenge against the assassin who killed your mentor. These are both excellent examples of broad motivations that bring strangers together and keep the party working towards a common goal. But what of each PC’s individual goals?

Each PC is unique. In most cases they are different races and different classes. So it stands to reason that even though they all want to find the person responsible for killing their king, each of them has personal goals they want to fulfill along they way. PCs with a divine feel may want to spread the teaching of their god. PCs who excel in combat may want to test their skill against stronger and more dangerous adversaries. PCs striving for knowledge may want to travel the world to see new things and learn of all that the world has to offer.

Too often PCs are created, equipped and thrown into the game. Little or no effort is spent coming up with real motivations for your character. At the beginning this is fine. In some cases it may take a few games to get to know the character well enough to determine what his motives may actually be. But if you level up a few times and you still haven’t realized what motivates this PC then you’re doing yourself a great disservice. Rounding out your character makes him more interesting and a lot more fun to play. If he never becomes anything more than numbers on a character sheet then you’re missing out on the richness that role-playing games have to offer.

If you do seek a motivation for your character and can’t come up with one ask the other players at your table or the DM. D&D is a shared experience. Your friends may have some terrific ideas on what your PC is really striving for even if you don’t.

Remember that your motivation is not set in stone. In fact, it’s likely to change as the PC becomes more powerful. If your motivation was to recover a stolen artifact, what happens when you accomplish that goal around 5th level? Do you retire or do you continue adventuring? Your goals and motivations will continue to evolve as your character grows. Many DMs will pick up on your character’s motivations and work them into the campaign. This often leads to more memorable stories and provides fantastic opportunities for everyone to role play their character.

How important are your PC’s motivations? Have you even given any thought to what they might be? How have you PC’s motivations changed as the character grows?