3 Bones Character Creation

Character creation is extremely free-form in Brian Binh's 3 Bones: Barebones Fantasy Roleplaying. The basics are covered below, with some suggestions for those who prefer to pick from a list.
This page does not replace the character creation rules. Get the Full Rules for Free

Core Traits

Choose three areas that your character has skill, training, or experience in. One will be your +1, one your +2, and one your +3. You do not need to bother with the parts of speech (adjective, verb, noun) aspects, but do pay attention to the specificity:

• Your +1 Trait can be extremely general. The bonus is small, so it's balanced by the high number of checks it can apply to. Examples: Sneaky, strong, smart, charming.
• Your +2 Trait should be slightly more specific. Good examples include common RPG classes. A +2 trait of "Ranger" would allow a +2 bonus to anything typically in a Ranger's repertoire. E.g.: using ranged weapons, wilderness survival, beast-taming, nature magic, etc.
• Your +3 Trait should be the most specific, because the bonus is sufficient to nearly guarantee success on most checks, so it should only apply to a narrow range of checks. If your +3 is related to weapons or magic, you should select a specific type of weapon or a specific type of magic (e.g.: water magic).

Kith & Kin

These traits describe what species you are and where you come from. They help you ground your character in the setting, giving them attachments, contacts, and other valuable resources.

• Kith refers to your community. You can make one up, choose from one of the Crossroad Realm's guilds, choose the geographical area your character is from, or translate a D&D background.
• Kin is usually your species. All the 5e Races can be found in the Forgotten Realms, and can be used as your Kin. If your species doesn't have any special abilities (i.e., you're Human), Kin can also refer to your family lineage.

Equipment

If you want an item not listed under Backpack Stuffing, ask me about it and I'll let you know its price and Burden score. You also have the option to buy a Trait Bag. When your Trait Bag is emptied, you can refill it in a town for the same cost of 3 coin per 1 Burden.
If you are playing a spellcaster, you may need an Arcane Focus (a staff, wand, crystal ball, or other item that helps you control the Weave). You will need to have a hand free to manipulate this item when you use your magic. This helps balance the inherent power and versatility of spellcasting.