Creating a Character

Session Zero

Character creation in Relics of the Moon is intended to be a group activity, very much like the flow of the game itself. The mechanics of the game are organized around and for the Cohort, and it can be considered the primary “character” in the game. Most of the time, players will create characters together during a dedicated session (a “Session Zero”), with the GM facilitating the process. There are aspects of character creation that are explicitly tied to other characters in the group, such as establishing relationships between characters. The Session Zero is also a time to create Cohort identity and consider the sorts of adventures the group would like to play which could, in turn, influence individual character choices.

It is also possible to create a character individually (or asynchronously), with the GM providing feedback and approval. Characters created individually may need to make adjustments when getting together with the other players for the first time.

Where to Start

Character creation is a very much an organic process. You may begin with any aspect of the character that inspires you, whether it be their background, relationship, or bioform. You may then move to or revisit any other aspect until the character is complete. If you have a concept or a few aspects of the character in mind, you may start with those aspects and build around them. If you are unsure where to start, use the suggested steps below.

Suggested Steps

1. Choose Expertise

Select a Primary, a Secondary, and a Support Expertise. These are your character’s skill sets that the Cohort relies on during adventures. Some Cohorts are built around one or two specific skill sets, while others are more well-rounded.

2. Choose Bioform

Select a Bioform that sounds interesting to you or ties into your character concept. Each Bioform has unique traits and ties to the world of Anasta.

3. Choose Background

Select a Background that fits your character concept or Cohort composition. While possible, it is unusual to have multiple characters with the same Background within a single Cohort.

4. Choose Ethos and Motto

Select two Ethos that represent your character’s guiding principles and a Motto that encapsulates their personal philosophy.

5. Create a Psionic Ability

Design a unique Psionic Ability that represents a power that your character possesses. Psionic Abilities are central to a character’s identity and can significantly influence gameplay. A character’s Psionic Ability may be tied to a signature item or something that has been infused into their genetic makeup through Psience. Much like character creation itself, creating a Psionic Ability is an organic process.

6. Choose a Relationship

Select a Relationship that your character has with another character in the Cohort. A relationship can influence character decisions, provide narrative hooks, and affect gameplay dynamics.

7. Choose an Optional Faction

Selecting a Faction is optional. Factions provide additional narrative context for your Cohort and (through Growth) potential beneficial traits.

8. Choose a Name and Create Vibe Text

Select a Name that fits your character concept and create Vibe Text that provides additional context, personality, or backstory for your character. Vibe Text should be two or three sentences that give insight into your character’s identity, motivations, and/or ties to the Cohort.