
Create Compelling Characters: A Solo Roleplaying Game Toolbox Essential
On Quisicosas since 5 November 2025
Featured in the newsletter of
5 November 2025 (on Substack)
What it is about
Build a Character That Writes Their Own Story If your solo RPG characters keep running out of steam, this trifold will change that. Create a Compelling Character is a practical character-building tool that helps you shape characters with real depth through drive, wound, vice, choices, and personality . No fluff, no theory, just a clear method you can use at the table to generate story naturally. Written by Peter Norton , co-author of Single Player Mode for Cyberpunk RED , this guide expands on ideas from his How To Create a Compelling Character video on the HollowPonds Solo Sagas channel. It is system-neutral and works with any RPG including solo, co-op or GM-led games. Inside you will find: A clear process for building story-first characters The Five Choices method for creating history without writing essays A simple vice clock mechanic for meaningful character flaws Guidance for weaknesses, tells, routines and relationships A printable character card you can keep beside you during play Compelling Index A full trifold guide you can use as a tabletop reference CreateACompellingCharacter This is part of the HollowPonds Solo Toolbox series. You can find the other companion trifolds by browsing the collection below . Perfect for: Solo roleplayers who want characters with momentum Storytellers who hate bland character sheets GM-less players and journalling RPG enjoyers GMs wanting more engaging PCs and NPCs Watch the linked how-to video, print the trifold, build your character, and play. Story comes first.





