Noob-Friendly – Homebrew Game Set in 1980s Japan
Start by imagining a character who lives in 1980s Japan. Think about their job, hobby, or daily life (e.g., salaryman, street punk, student, bar hostess, yakuza underling, factory worker, or hobbyist like a retro gamer or biker).
Build everything around this theme. Don't overthink options—let the theme guide your choices.
Example: A tough brawler? Prioritize high Strength. A bookish researcher? High Intelligence. A simple burger flipper? Civilian class fits best.
Level: 5
Armor Class (AC): 10
Speed: 30 ft
Hit Dice: 1 per level (so 5 Hit Dice)
Hit Points (HP): Choose your class first (see below). HP = Hit Die size × level (Cap is 99HP) (e.g., 1d8 class → 8 × 5 = 40 HP average)
Ability Scores: Use this standard array (no racial bonuses): 15, 15, 14, 13, 10, 8 Assign based on theme:
STR → Melee combat
DEX → Ranged attacks, agility
CON → HP and resisting ailments/conditions
INT → Investigation, problem-solving
WIS → Perception (detecting danger), resisting mind-altering effects, SANITY checks
CHA → Social encounters, persuasion, deception
Pick 4 proficiencies that fit your theme.
Recommended (most useful in this game):
Acrobatics (DEX)
Athletics (STR)
Perception (WIS)
Investigation (INT)
Insight (WIS)
Deception (CHA)
Persuasion (CHA)
Not recommended (rarely useful):
Arcana (INT)
Name: Japanese style recommended – Surname first, then Given name (e.g., Tanaka Hiroshi). Use kanji if desired.
Alias/Nickname: Optional flavor (e.g., "Zuki-chan" for Mizuki). Common in 1980s Japan for friends or street names.
Pronouns: Whatever you prefer.
Race: Human (standard humanoid). Other races are story-only (no mechanical benefits).
Class: Pick one that matches your theme (e.g., Brawler for fighters, Civilian for everyday folks, Investigator for detectives).
Faction: None (for basic characters).
Location: Select "Bar" as a placeholder (it's just a filler to save the character; you can change it later).
Brief Description: 1–2 sentences summarizing your character.
Appearance: Key physical traits for the AI to reference (e.g., "raven-black hair in a buzz cut, eye patch over left eye, leather jacket, chain necklace").
Backstory: Up to 1,000 characters. Keep it simple at first (e.g., placeholder text), then edit later. Tie it to the setting:
Family member missing or died mysteriously.
Inherited land/property in Yomiyama.
Arrived in town on December 24th and now can't leave.
Mannerisms: Short habits for roleplay (e.g., "flicks a coin while thinking," "murmurs to himself," "clears throat and wiggles finger before speaking," "adjusts glasses," "speaks with a stutter," "shouts words like they're in a snowstorm").
Once you've filled in all the details (name, class, stats, proficiencies, appearance, backstory, mannerisms, etc.):
Click "Save" at the bottom of the character creation screen. This locks in your character so you can use them in the game.
After saving, you'll be able to choose a starting location.
Look for the locations with a ★ (star) next to them—these are the active or interesting spots right now (with ongoing events or other players).
Pick one that sounds interesting to you.
This is where your character will start the session. You can always move around later.
If you're not sure which starred location fits your character's vibe best, tell me your theme/job/backstory, and I can help suggest one based on the available options.
Damage & Condition Modifiers: Skip for basic creation.
Conditions: Skip for basic creation.
Feats: You get one at level 4—don't worry about it yet.
That's it! Focus on theme over min-maxing. Ready to create your 1980s Japan character?