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Character Backgrounds

Your character's background is a collection of characteristics that represent the place and occupation that were most formative before your character embarked on a life of adventure.

Parts of a Background​

A background includes the following parts.

Ability Scores​

A background lists three of your character's ability scores. Increase one by 2 and another one by 1 , or increase all three by 1 . None of these increases can raise a score above 20.

Feat​

A background gives your character a specified Origin feat (described in "Feats").

Skill Proficiencies​

A background gives your character proficiency in two specified skills.

Tool Proficiency​

Each background gives a character proficiency with one tool-either a specific tool or one chosen from the Artisan's Tools category. Tools are detailed in "Equipment."

Equipment​

Each background offers a choice between a package of equipment and 50 GP.

Background Descriptions​

Acolyte​

Ability Scores: Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma Feat: Magic Initiate (Cleric) (see "Feats") Skill Proficiencies: Insight and Religion Tool Proficiency: Calligrapher's Supplies Equipment: Choose A or B: (A) Calligrapher's Supplies, Book (prayers), Holy Symbol, Parchment (10 sheets), Robe, 8 GP; or (B) 50 GP

Criminal​

Ability Scores: Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence Feat: Alert (see "Feats") Skill Proficiencies: Sleight of Hand and Stealth Tool Proficiency: Thieves' Tools Equipment: Choose A or B: (A) 2 Daggers, Thieves' Tools, Crowbar, 2 Pouches, Traveler's Clothes, 16 GP; or (B) 50 GP

Sage​

Ability Scores: Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom Feat: Magic Initiate (Wizard) (see "Feats") Skill Proficiencies: Arcana and History Tool Proficiency: Calligrapher's Supplies Equipment: Choose A or B: (A) Quarterstaff, Calligrapher's Supplies, Book (history), Parchment (8 sheets), Robe, 8 GP; or (B) 50 GP

Soldier​

Ability Scores: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution Feat: Savage Attacker (see "Feats") Skill Proficiencies: Athletics and Intimidation Tool Proficiency: Choose one kind of Gaming Set (see "Equipment") Equipment: Choose A or B: (A) Spear, Shortbow, 20 Arrows, Gaming Set (same as above), Healer's Kit, Quiver, Traveler's Clothes, 14 GP; or (B) 50 GP