I do not really "build" a character. More often then not, the character evolves during creation. Here's what I do for a D&D game, as it is different for each game system.
First and foremost, I roll my attributes. This is important for me, as assigning values in D&D just doesn't feel right. That, however, is an entirely different thread.
Next, based on the attributes rolled I assign a race and class that feel appropriate for the attributes.
Next comes the purely mechanical part where the rest of the first level character is created (writing down saves, base attack bonus, rolling for starting money, etc.).
Then comes the descriptive section. I will often roll randomly for age, height and weight. After all this is done, I start thinking about a name. Working with the DM I will come up with some background and possible story hooks for the DM to use for future adventures. Finally equipment is purchased.
After all this is done I like to come up with some personally created visual item for the character. It could be a map of their home town, a family tree, a piece of heraldry, or something like that. Since I cannot draw well it is never a character portrait.
I then make sure the DM has a copy of everything, and we are good to go. I will sometimes pick out a specific miniature to use, if the DM uses them, but often I will just pick something that is visually distinct. After all, it is a game of imagination.
First and foremost, I roll my attributes. This is important for me, as assigning values in D&D just doesn't feel right. That, however, is an entirely different thread.
Next, based on the attributes rolled I assign a race and class that feel appropriate for the attributes.
Next comes the purely mechanical part where the rest of the first level character is created (writing down saves, base attack bonus, rolling for starting money, etc.).
Then comes the descriptive section. I will often roll randomly for age, height and weight. After all this is done, I start thinking about a name. Working with the DM I will come up with some background and possible story hooks for the DM to use for future adventures. Finally equipment is purchased.
After all this is done I like to come up with some personally created visual item for the character. It could be a map of their home town, a family tree, a piece of heraldry, or something like that. Since I cannot draw well it is never a character portrait.
I then make sure the DM has a copy of everything, and we are good to go. I will sometimes pick out a specific miniature to use, if the DM uses them, but often I will just pick something that is visually distinct. After all, it is a game of imagination.