Usually we follow this process:
1) We get together to discuss what kind of game we want to play.
2) We compromise on classes based on what classes each of us wants to play.
3) We generate characters according to the previous steps.
4) We brainstorm how the party met, why they are together and which goals they're pursuing right now.
This way we avoid unnecessary conflicts or failed expectations.
EDIT: Previously, we used to play a short prelude to the campaign so that the characters meet and have their first adventure together, but in the long run we dropped this because it felt contrived and repetitive.
1) We get together to discuss what kind of game we want to play.
2) We compromise on classes based on what classes each of us wants to play.
3) We generate characters according to the previous steps.
4) We brainstorm how the party met, why they are together and which goals they're pursuing right now.
This way we avoid unnecessary conflicts or failed expectations.
EDIT: Previously, we used to play a short prelude to the campaign so that the characters meet and have their first adventure together, but in the long run we dropped this because it felt contrived and repetitive.
