Traits

Traits are divided into strengths and weaknesses. Each strength has a value associated with it (from one to four); the more powerful abilities have the higher values. You can take up to three strengths for your character, but you must take an equal value’s worth of weaknesses to balance it out. For example, if you take Born Leader and Gifted (six points), you must take six points’ worth of weaknesses, such as Hematophobia (3), Clumsy (2), and Allergic (1).

Review all the traits to see which ones appeal to your class and play style. Some standouts include Born Leader, which increases damage for all your allies; Gifted, which gives you two extra skill points per level; and Brute, which has a chance to stun your opponent with each attack. Of course, your class might determine a better trait, such as Bruiser (extra damage with two-handed weapons) for a Hedge Knight. After you pick your traits, you’ll have to match them with weaknesses; this is no easy feat, since they’re all disadvantages, and some can kill you at the wrong moment in a fight.