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Message: <blockquote data-quote="TiaxTheMighty" data-source="post: 6398433" data-attributes="member: 6781142">That makes sense. However, I maintain immersion by requiring the new player to write a backstory. Now I normally require backstories in my game anyway (Half a page or so at 1st level) but a PC coming in a to a 3-4th level party might require more at my discretion. I find that this small requirement not only retains immersion, but it also allows/forces the PCs to be more invested in their character. So the death of a character you spent time developing a personality for, building rapport with your companions and different npcs, as well as investing a big chunk of time into is punishment enough. I don't believe the PC also needs a mechanical setback. His setback should be in RP terms. Things like not immediately earning the new party's trust - not being the first one they save if another companion is also in danger at the same time, not getting preferential treatment for magic items over another party member etc...I also like the effect this has on RP in regards to the new player vs the old party - it's much easier to introduce the party to a new pc that can hold his own (usually by introducing him during a crisis) and be useful instead of forcing the party to feel like it's on one big long escort quest.</blockquote>