The Grassy Gnoll
Explorer
When coming up with names for NPCs, especially on the fly, I have often struggled.
As an example, when pushed, I panicked and said a monster's name was Waangkor.
Now, the flaw may not be evident for Americans, but it's a bit of an own goal.
The DM screen has a three-syllable name generator table but it's a little vanilla/elvish for my tastes.I saw on a thread (can't remember which, I think it was an oooold one), where someone suggested raiding football (ie soccer) for names.
As a Brit, I have to say, the NFL is a treasure trove for this. Case in point: Barkevious Mingo.
I am SO having him as a recurring NPC. But not too easy to parse the whole of the NFL in an instant for something suitable when you need to name Guard 3 or Shopkeeper 2.
Question is: where/how do you guys find inspiration for names at short notice? Any advice?
As an example, when pushed, I panicked and said a monster's name was Waangkor.
Now, the flaw may not be evident for Americans, but it's a bit of an own goal.
The DM screen has a three-syllable name generator table but it's a little vanilla/elvish for my tastes.I saw on a thread (can't remember which, I think it was an oooold one), where someone suggested raiding football (ie soccer) for names.
As a Brit, I have to say, the NFL is a treasure trove for this. Case in point: Barkevious Mingo.
I am SO having him as a recurring NPC. But not too easy to parse the whole of the NFL in an instant for something suitable when you need to name Guard 3 or Shopkeeper 2.
Question is: where/how do you guys find inspiration for names at short notice? Any advice?