Gambler

Some people live to take chances, and in doing so, seek to find their fortunes. These gamblers come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have at least one thing in common: they take risks in the hope that those risks will lead them to rewards. Aficionados of various games of chance, the gambler indulges his urge to turn risk into reward wherever it makes sense, be it at the arena, a dark alley, a posh gambling hall, a military camp, or virtually any other setting where games of chance can find a place.

Skill Proficiencies: Deception, Sleight of Hand

Tool Proficiencies: Your choice of two types of gaming sets

Equipment: Two types of gaming sets, a set of fine or traveler’s clothes, a non-magical good luck charm, and a pouch containing 10 gp.

Feature: Where’s the Action?

If there is gambling activity (action) going on, you seldom have much problem finding it. As an experienced gambler, you typically know who to ask and where to look to locate others who are interested in playing games of chance, or you at least know how to get a game started to attract others.

Once you locate these other gamblers, you’re usually able to secure a place at the table (figuratively or literally), though you may have to demonstrate that you know what you’re talking about and have currency to wager… and sometimes only the latter. In short, you should typically have no problem finding opportunities to gamble so long as you can effectively communicate with those around you and they are willing to deal with you.

Fleshing Things Out

Some questions to consider when determining how this background applies to your character: What is your preferred game of chance? Have you typically been successful with your wagers, are you a habitual loser, or somewhere in between?

Would you consider your gambling habit an addiction or more of a hobby? In either case, is your perception of it actually accurate? Just how far are you willing to go to get an advantage when you gamble? Would you cheat? What’s your style of gambling? Are you a cerebral, methodical risk calculator, or are you guided by your gut and the thrill of banking on long odds?

You should also consider what caused you to take up the role of an adventurer. Did the results of your gambling career steer you toward a life of adventure, or did your adventurous life teach you to gamble along the way? Perhaps you’re seeking that next thrilling gamble, or maybe you’re trying to outrun your own bad luck.

d8 Personality Trait
1 I don’t like to stay in one place for long.
2 I’m extremely superstitious about my gambles.
3 Once I place a bet, I always have second thoughts.
4 My shoes against your hat. Let’s flip for it.
5 I like to spend my coin as soon as I get ahold of it.
6 I hoard supplies, just in case.
7 What’s the point of gambling if you don’t have an audience?
8 The higher the risk, the more interested I am.
d6 Ideal
1 Generosity. Spread the wealth when you win. (Good)
2 Enabling. A fool and his money are soon parted, and I’ll help them along. (Evil)
3 Predictability. Everything is predictable with enough information. (Lawful)
4 Randomness. Random chance governs everything. (Chaotic)
5 Excitement. What’s life without chance? (Neutral)
6 Gain. There’s always room for more. (Any)
d6 Bond
1 I skipped out on a debt, and now I’m wanted.
2 Someday I’ll find that perfect bet if I keep trying.
3 One of my parents was a famous gambler, and I intend to make them proud.
4 I made a deal with some sort of powerful being to help me win a bet.
5 Once I have enough money together, my love will finally marry me.
6 I’ll never forget that first jackpot.
d6 Flaw
1 I don’t know how to quit while I’m ahead.
2 I’m terrible at remembering whom I owe and who owes me.
3 Strong drink and bad company go hand in hand with gambling.
4 Nothing is too valuable to risk on a wager.
5 I tend to exaggerate my prowess at any number of activities.
6 I indulge in a bad habit that helps me deal with the stress.
Section 15: Copyright Notice

The Big Book of Backgrounds Copyright 2019, P.B. Publishing, Phil Beckwith, and Cody Faulk.

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