27 The Taming of the Wolverine

One of the most popular character archetypes in genre fiction is the anti-authority, antisocial loose cannon who is tough as nails, self-reliant, and always cool. It’s easy to see why someone would want to bring a character like this into a game. The problem is antisocial characters can be difficult to incorporate into an ensemble story. Having someone pursue an agenda that works against the party is a recipe for disaster. Loner characters work on teams in fiction because writers give them traits that bind them to the rest of the cast. If you want to create a loner, use these exceptions to keep that character part of the party.

 For each loner trait you want to give your character, choose at least one social trait to balance it.

I DON’T RESPECT AUTHORITY, BUT . . . (CHECK AT LEAST ONE)

 I respect (specific party member).

 My moral code is usually in line with those of my companions.

 I need to prove my worth.

 I’ll follow a plan others agree to.

 I could never abandon my friends.

 I need to be in charge.

I DON’T GET CLOSE TO PEOPLE, BUT . . . (CHECK AT LEAST ONE)

 I compulsively mentor anyone younger than me.

 I secretly want to find a family.

 I am always trying to rebuild what I lost.

 I have a deep friendship with (specific party member).

 I’m always falling in love.

 I can never leave anyone alone.

I WORK ALONE, BUT . . . (CHECK AT LEAST ONE)

 I can’t stand to see good people get hurt if I don’t help.

 My rivalry with (specific party member) draws me in.

 I can’t deny (specific party member) knows things I don’t.

 My code of honor doesn’t allow me to break a promise.

 The mission is more important than anything.

 I’ll always take the most convenient option.

I RUN MY MOUTH, BUT . . . (CHECK AT LEAST ONE)

 It’s only because I really care.

 I would die for my companions.

 It’s because I am trying to be someone I am not.

 I need an audience for my nonsense.

 I am deeply empathetic, and it destroys me to hurt people.

 It is because I am trying to keep people who are dear to me out of harm’s way.

I’M GREEDY AND SELFISH, BUT . . . (CHECK AT LEAST ONE)

 It’s to support people other than myself.

 I prefer getting caught to showing off my skills.

 I’m deeply ashamed of it.

 I’m always giving away what I take.

 I would never steal from a friend.

 It’s only so I can have things to impress people.