I think it really depends on how people view the game. In the game I play in, everyone's background is an essential part of who we are, because we enjoy RP and character development. Our forge cleric is a blacksmith, who wants to take the armor and weapons of enemies we fight, because he fixes them and sells them. I'm a mercenary war mage, and everyone knows that with few exceptions, I'm not doing anything unless I think I can benefit from it. Our warlock sage delves deep into every mystery, because he is driven to gather knowledge for his guild (and himself). You get the idea; our RP choices are molded partially by our background and the bonds, ideals, and flaws we take from them.
The issue I have with the backgrounds is mechanical. IMO, your character build should be: race, background, then class, and you can only switch out a skill/tool proficiency if you have no other options to choose from. This makes the background skills & proficiencies more relevant, rather than just an add on. The way it is now, certain skills/tools are seldom taken, while others are in constant demand.
The issue I have with the backgrounds is mechanical. IMO, your character build should be: race, background, then class, and you can only switch out a skill/tool proficiency if you have no other options to choose from. This makes the background skills & proficiencies more relevant, rather than just an add on. The way it is now, certain skills/tools are seldom taken, while others are in constant demand.