NPCs: Stat Blocks or Backgrounds

[Mark CMG]

Another thread begs raises the question . . .

*edit*

I guess for those who have no trouble making either and feel they need both, based on the original thread, it all comes down to which is easier for you to make yourself. For those who have no doubt that they only need one or the other, it's a simple question.

For the purposes of this thread, "background" covers anything not part of the stat block, such as intentions, motivations, predilections, etc. though not, as is often included with a stat block, simple physical description, typical combat disposition, etc.

 

[Ghendar]

Stat blocks DEFINITELY!

 

[ColonelHardisson]

I love stat blocks. Ready-made backgrounds are OK, but I think I'd prefer using something like the seven sentence NPC article found in an old issue of Dragon, and reprinted in the Dragon Compendium.

 

[Vicar In A Tutu]

Without a doubt stat blocks. They are a pain to make, especially at higher levels.

 

[el-remmen]

Can you elucidate the question?

Not sure I get it. . . Or at least a link to the originating thread. ..

 

[sjmiller]

I personally think that about 99% of all NPCs don't need a full stat block. Heck, most of them just need a rough idea of what skills they might have, their attribute modifiers, and maybe an equipment list. That's all that's really needed for a stat block. All the rest is motive, strategy, and tactics.

Now, of course, my definition of NPC and "monster" may be different than most everyone else, so that could effect things. I feel an NPC is someone the PCs will interact with at least once, if not on a recurring basis, and that both sides of the interaction will come away from it alive. A "monster" is someone (or something) the PCs encounter once, ineteract with (usually fight), and only one side of the interaction leaves standing.

This may be why I feel that most NPCs I see presented are overly detailed. An NPC only needs a full blown representation if they are going to be a recurring part of the story.

 

[MojoGM]

Well, since I started the original thread saying I wanted more Background rather than endless stat blocks, that's how I voted

But really, I'd be happy with both!

 

[Mark CMG]

Can you elucidate the question?

Why?

Not sure I get it. . . Or at least a link to the originating thread. ..

Done (in first post).

 

[Vyvyan Basterd]

I could use both about equally, but I'm a bit better at stat block creation than backgrounds. Now when I say equally that doesn't mean I NEED either one and a product solely made up of either (or both) would be low on my wish list. Although I would love to work on such a project since I've done similar exercises when I have nothing else to prepare for my campaign.

 

[Seeker95]

If the NPC is someone/thing that the PCs are likely to combat, I need stat blocks.
If the NPC is someone the PCs are likely to interact with more than once, I need background.

Sometimes, the NPC requires both.
Often, the NPC requires neither.

I can't vote in this poll.