Your character

Every PC in Stonetop has a playbook. A playbook is a template, a set of choices and options that point towards a specific character archetype while still leaving room to make the character unique.

There are nine standard playbooks, which you can find starting on Playbooks and Inserts. In play, though, you'll use either a printed copy of your playbook or an electronic version thereof. You can download these playbooks (and other materials) from www. lampblackandbrimstone.com.

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Creating your character

At the start of a new game, make characters together, during the first session. It's cool to show up with a concept or some ideas in mind, but hold those ideas lightly. Be willing to discard or change them in response to the other players' ideas and interests.

Start by picking your playbook. Refer to the Setting Overview handout for a quick description of each playbook and its relative complexity. If you're unsure, look at the front page of each playbook to get a sense of what it's about. No doubling up; each player should pick a different playbook.

Work through your playbook from front to back, making choices as instructed. If your playbook mentions an insert or arcana, ask the GM for those. Stop when you get to "Introductions" and wait for the others.

If you're familiar with Stonetop, it's okay to suggest alternatives for your background, place of origin, special possessions, or even playbook moves. The GM and the rest of the group must all approve.

If you're joining an ongoing game, have the GM or another player brief you on the established details, and then make your PC before your first session. If your PC retires or dies, make a new PC between sessions. Either way, pick a background that could reflect a new arrival in the village or an NPC stepping up to PC status. Then work with the GM on the best way to introduce your new PC to the game.

To create your character, you'll choose a playbook and fill it out. Each playbook includes choices for your PC's…

Background
Instinct
Appearance
Place of origin and name
Stats
Playbook moves
Special possessions

Your character

In this section