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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Ristamar" data-source="post: 7686191" data-attributes="member: 1207">There are various ways to get around the shock of "replacement" characters in long standing campaigns given a little cooperative planning by the group.  In the early stages of a campaign, each player can collaborate with the DM to create one or two character back-ups in the event of a PC death.  Alternatively, allow players to designate NPCs they've met during the natural course of play as a potential back-up.  These back-ups are then planted within the campaign as dynamic NPCs that grow in power relative to the party.  A designated back-up NPC should ideally only occasionally interact with the party or be known to the PCs through word of their deeds and reputation.  This allows the quirks and details of the character's personality and background to be largely malleable, and the player can make it his own without competing or clashing with the DM's interpretation of the character.When a PC meets a permanent or long term death, one of his back-ups comes to the forefront to join the party.  Since the respective player had input in the background and personality of the NPC (or in the case of a designated replacement, they liked the basic foundation enough to adopt it as their own), it's easier for him to slip into a new role he'll enjoy while retaining the verisimilitude of absorbing a "replacement" party member.Introducing the new PC to the party could take on many forms depending on the needs of the campaign.  He might show up unexpectedly in the middle of an adventure (alone or with other NPCs) or the party may seek him out as part of a larger quest.  Any downtime between or during sessions can provide further opportunity for the DM and the player to collaborate on the important details of the NPC respective to the current campaign.  The DM could even run one or more "flashback" sessions for the new PC, allowing the player to explore and experience the character's past while acclimating to any new skills and abilities.  These side adventures are great for groups that need a break from the current game and want to explore a different piece of the campaign world.  They can also be pulled out when one or more players aren't able to make a regularly scheduled session.</blockquote>

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