In Dungeons & Dragons, choosing a background provides a foundation for your character's history and personal story. It represents what your character was doing before they became an adventurer and can include elements like their occupation, upbringing, or significant life events.

A character's background provides additional skills, tools, and role-playing hooks. It can also grant additional languages and equipment. Here's a breakdown of what a background might provide:

Skill Proficiencies: Most backgrounds provide proficiency in two skills. These are abilities your character has learned through their life experiences. For example, a character with the "Sage" background might have proficiency in the Arcana and History skills, reflecting their studies and knowledge.

Tool Proficiencies: Some backgrounds also provide proficiency with certain tools. For example, a character with the "Criminal" background might have proficiency with thieves' tools.

Equipment: Backgrounds often provide a set of equipment that your character starts with. This could include tools related to your background, a certain amount of money, or other items.

Special Features: Many backgrounds provide a special feature that can be used in the game. For example, the "Soldier" background provides a feature called "Military Rank," which can influence how other soldiers and officers respond to the character.

Suggested Characteristics: Each background provides suggestions for your character's personality traits, ideals, bonds, and flaws. These can help you flesh out your character's personality and motivations.

When choosing a background, consider how it fits with your character's class and race, as well as the backstory and personality you have in mind for them. The background should add depth to your character and provide interesting hooks for role-playing and character development.

Eorzean Noble

You were born into one of the noble families of Eorzea. You grew up in luxury, but you were also surrounded by political intrigue and power struggles. You might have left this life behind to seek your own path, or you might be on a mission for your family. Skills: History, Persuasion. Tools: One type of gaming set. Languages: One of your choice.

Garlean Defector

You were once a citizen of the Garlean Empire, but you defected for reasons of your own. You might be a former soldier who grew disillusioned with the Empire's methods, or you might be a scientist who wanted to use your knowledge for the good of all. Skills: Arcana, Stealth. Tools: One type of artisan's tool. Languages: Garlean.

Wildwood Elezen Hunter

As a Wildwood Elezen, you spent your early years in the forests of the Black Shroud, honing your skills as a hunter. Your keen senses and knowledge of the wilderness make you an excellent scout and survivalist. Skills: Nature, Survival. Tools: Herbalism kit. Languages: Common, Elezen.

Dunesfolk Merchant

You hail from a long line of Lalafellin traders and have a knack for haggling and a keen eye for valuable goods. Whether it's precious gems from Ul'dah or exotic spices from far-off lands, you know how to get the best deals. Skills: Insight, Persuasion. Tools: One type of artisan's tools related to your trade. Languages: Common, Lalafellin.

Sea Wolf Mariner

As a Roegadyn of the Sea Wolf clan, you've spent much of your life aboard ships, sailing the seas around Limsa Lominsa. You're as comfortable on the deck of a ship as you are on solid ground. Skills: Athletics, Perception. Tools: Navigator's tools. Languages: Common, Roegadyn.

Sharlayan Scholar

You were trained in the city-state of Sharlayan, known for its great library and scholarly pursuits. You have a thirst for knowledge and a particular interest in the ancient civilizations of Eorzea. Skills: History, Investigation. Tools: Calligrapher's supplies. Languages: Common, one of your choice.

Gridanian Botanist

Raised in the lush, verdant city-state of Gridania, you've spent your life studying the flora of the Black Shroud. Your knowledge of plants and their uses is extensive, making you an asset in the wilderness. Skills: Nature, Survival. Tools: Herbalism kit. Languages: Common, one of your choice.

Ul'dahn Miner

You hail from the bustling, wealthy city-state of Ul'dah, where you worked in the vast mineral-rich mines. Your experience has given you a strong physique and a keen eye for valuable ores. Skills: Athletics, Investigation. Tools: Pickaxe. Languages: Common, one of your choice.

Ishgardian Knight

Born and raised in the austere city-state of Ishgard, you were trained as a knight to defend your home from the Dravanian Horde. Your martial skills are matched only by your strong sense of honour and duty. Skills: Athletics, Intimidation. Tools: One type of gaming set. Languages: Common, Draconic.

Maelstrom Privateer

As a member of the Maelstrom, Limsa Lominsa's grand maritime force, you've spent your life sailing the Rhotano Sea. Your naval experience has made you a skilled sailor and a tough fighter. Skills: Athletics, Perception. Tools: Navigator's tools. Languages: Common, one of your choice.

Wandering Minstrel

You've travelled across Eorzea, sharing songs and stories wherever you go. Your music can bring joy, inspire courage, or soothe weary souls. Skills: Performance, Persuasion. Tools: One type of musical instrument. Languages: Common, one of your choice.

Twelveswood Keeper

As a Keeper of the Twelveswood, you've dedicated your life to maintaining the balance of nature in the Black Shroud. Your deep connection to the forest and its creatures makes you a skilled tracker and survivalist. Skills: Nature, Survival. Tools: Herbalism kit. Languages: Common, Sylvan.