Create a Character

Characters in Falchion are called "Drifters". This page walks you through creating one from start to finish.
The entire process should take less than 10 minutes.

You will need:

• A character sheet or card
• A pencil
• TTRPG Dice (d20, d12, d10, d8, d6, d4)

Drifters are fragile. Smart choices, preparation, and teamwork matter more than specific choices during creation.

Step 1 — Choose Kin

For now, all player characters (PCs) are Human.

• Size: Medium
• Hit Die: d8

Additional kin may be added later.

Step 2 — Generate Stats

Falchion uses four Primary stats and three Secondary stats.

Primary Stats

• Might (MGT): Strength, toughness, raw physical force
• Will (WIL): Presence, resolve, force of personality
• Technique (TECH): Dexterity, coordination, fine motor skill
• Mind (MND): Learning, perception, reasoning

Secondary Stats

• Focus (FOC): Concentration and mental control
• Stamina (STA): Endurance over time
• Reflex (REF): Speed and reaction

Rolling Stats

• Roll 3d6, divide the result by 2, and round down to a minimum of 1
• Do this once for each stat, assigning the results in order of:
• MGT
• WIL
• TECH
• MND
• FOC
• STA
• REF

This generates values from 1–9.

Optional Rule:
You may swap any two Primary stats, and any two Secondary stats, after assigning values.

Step 3 — Target Numbers & Stat Pairings

When you attempt something risky, the GM will have you roll:

d20 ≤ Target Number (TN) + Skill (if applicable)

Your Target Number (TN) is created by pairing:

• One Primary stat
• One Secondary stat

Example pairings:

• MGT + FOC: Breaking free of restraints, forcing doors
• TECH + REF: Dodging, jumping, sudden movement
• MND + FOC: Casting sorceries, recalling knowledge
• WIL + REF: Resisting fear, charm, or intimidation

Which Secondary stat you use depends on how you act:

• Focus: Careful, deliberate action
• Stamina: Prolonged effort or resistance
• Reflex: Immediate reaction

In nearly all cases, the GM will tell you which Stat Paring will be needed for your TN.

Step 4 — Choose a Trade

Your Trade defines your role, starting skills, and equipment.

Choose one:

• Burglar
• Mage
• Priest
• Warrior

Each Trade provides:

• A specific skill list
• Starting gear
• A clear role in play

Step 5 — Skills

Skills represent training.

• Anyone may attempt any action, they do not need a skill as a pre-requisite
• Skills modify your TN

Skill levels:

• Untrained: +0
• Trained: +2
• Expert: +4
• Master: +6

Your Trade determines which skills you begin trained in.

Step 6 — Starting Gear & Encumbrance

Gear is measured using slots.

• Your total carrying capacity is MGT + 10 slots
• Gear take up slots based on size and bulk

Gear types:

• "Unencumbering": No slot unless the GM determines otherwise
• Light: ½ slot
• Normal: 1 slot
• Heavy: 2 slots
• Awkward: 3 slots

Your Trade determines:

• Starting weapons
• Armor
• Gear
• Random equipment rolls (if applicable)

Step 7 — Finishing Touches

Record your drifter's following:

• Hit Points (roll HD)
• A name
• A look
• One or two personal details or motivations

You are encouraged to leave gaps.
Discovery happens in play.

Your drifter is now ready for adventure.