Creating Fantasy Characters

I have written about character building before, but this time, I want to have a particular focus on character building for the fantasy genre. My books are more than often, character driven and art of characterisation can be powerful, turning plots into amazing and awesome stories.

When it comes to fantasy, creating compelling characters is crucial, as they are the vessels through which readers connect with your imaginary world. The following are some guides to building characters for fantasy:

1. Define the Basics

Name: Choose names that suit the world you are building. Name choosing can be very difficult, so do spend some time on this. Consider the culture, language, and history of the fantasy realm the character is from.

Age: Determine the age of your character and how it influences their perspective and experiences.

Race/Species: In a fantasy setting, characters can belong to various races or species. Consider the unique traits and abilities associated with each.

2. Establish Physical Traits

Appearance: Describe your character's physical features, from their hair/eye colour, height, build, etc. Consider how these aspects tie into their background or culture. You do not have to completely describe your character. Allow the reader to establish a view of the character or use other characters to describe how your characters might look.

Clothing/Armour: What does your character wear? Like us, the attire of the character can reflect their personality, status, or the realm they come from.

3. Develop Personality

Personality Traits: Create a list of personality traits. Is your character brave, shy, sarcastic, optimistic, or reserved? Think about how these traits influence their actions and interactions.

Motivations and Goals: What does your character want? Their goals and motivations drive the plot and reveal deeper aspects of their personality.

4. Backstory

Origin: Where is your character from? What is their cultural background? How do these factors shape who they are? Backstory is essential, however take note of where and what you introduce throughout the story development.

Significant Events: Highlight key events in your character's past that have shaped them. Traumas, triumphs, and experiences all contribute to their development.

5. Skills and Abilities

Magic or Special Abilities: In a fantasy setting, characters often have unique powers or skills. Define the limits and rules governing these abilities. I believe there should be some limitation or something that can prevent the magic to be limitless – even superman has a limitation.

Skills and Talents: What is your character good at? Are they a skilled warrior, a talented musician, or a cunning strategist?

6. Flaws and Weaknesses

Imperfections: No one is perfect. Give your character flaws or weaknesses that they must overcome or learn to live with. This is part of their growth and development throughout the story. The character growth need not always be positive, they can also be come bitter through experiences.

Internal Conflicts: I love this one! Explore the inner conflicts. These can add great depth to your character and the reader can get to experience the inner workings of the character’s thoughts. Internal conflicts can be moral dilemmas, unresolved issues, or fears.

7. Relationships

Family and Friends: Define your character's relationships. How do they interact with family and friends? Do they have allies or enemies?

Romantic Interests: If this is relevant, consider the romantic aspects of your character's life. How do they approach love and relationships?

8. Character Arc

Growth and Change: Plan the trajectory of your character's development throughout the story. What challenges will they face, and how will these experiences change them?

9. Unique Quirks or Habits

Mannerisms: Give your character unique habits, gestures, or ways of speaking that make them memorable. This can be challenging; however, it will help to create differences in your characters.

Hobbies: What does your character enjoy doing in their free time? Hobbies can add depth and relatability.

10. Name and Title

Titles or Roles: If your character holds a specific title or role in their world, define it. Perhaps it is a royal title, a knight, or a librarian. Titles can reveal a lot about a character, their traits and personality.

Try to create characters with depth and complexity, allowing readers to connect with them emotionally. The more thought and detail you put into building your characters, the more vivid and engaging your fantasy world will become.

Character building can be very enjoyable and it is even more so, once you get inside their heads!

For more, check out the Ben Kesp Writers Hub.