GMMichael
Guide of Modos
Does the DMG mention backgrounds, mechanically or in the general sense? I can see the authors ignoring mechanical (flaws, bonds, etc.) background since they're optional, but there should at least be a sidebar or inset for them. Really, if you build an adventure (or tailor an adventure module) and don't include any background items, you've probably done something wrong.In my games, I have backgrounds on my go-to list for whenever I want to add extra meaning to a scene or look to flesh out options for progress.
It's no effort really for a GM to say "you find the contact in the bar and..." then decide to make the next part of that paragraph relate to a PzC background instead of describing a generic new NPC. It just requires paying attention.
I find the list, as a GM, a little intimidating though. Say you have four players, by six background items (including alignment and the background's name). Can you grab 1 item out of 24 as a hook, without concern that it might be tied to or complicate at least one of the others? Could you use any items, plot-wise, or should you be using some over others?