[imager]http://www.rpgnow.com/products/product_3978.jpg[/imager] Modern Character Backgrounds
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this product for review purposes
Modern Character Backgrounds is a compilation of 35 characters backgrounds. It is nothing more than backgrounds, none of the characters within it are statted out. The format of the product is landscape with text on the left hand side and a picture of the character on the right.
This product is beneficial for players and GMs alike. With the 35 characters presented within its pages, picking one and fleshing out stats should be a breeze. Due to the multitude of characters presented within it, choosing one to fit a character concept shouldn’t be hard at all.
Each character background is unique and flavorful even though there are duplicate or triplicate characters from the same occupation. Backgrounds span the gamut of where the characters were raised, from anywhere within the States to even Holland. Each background has enough text to fill a good portion of the page and is thought out enough and provides just the minimum amount of detail that explains the characters interests and how their history reflects what the character has done with their life so far.
As I stated before, there are pictures that represent the physical template of the characters. Interestingly enough a few of the characters look a lot like some Hollywood celebrities. One of the characters, named Lee Harmon, bears a striking resemblance to Seth Green.
Conclusion
This product is meant as an expansion to 93 Games Studio game The Swing. That doesn’t mean that the backgrounds contained within can’t be used for other modern RPGs. The generality of the product is the part of the product that makes it stand out. Not many rpg products can pull that off. I am really happy with this product and can foresee getting much use out of it. This reviewer gives Modern Character Backgrounds 5 Stars.
