@Loraedor: Thanks for the compliments! I always try to set a high standard when it comes to depth and covering a subject as completely as possible, so it’s always great when someone tells me that I’ve hit the mark.

A lot of GMs , I think, implement planning to some degree during character creation, even if it’s only to say “Bob’s already generated a bard, you might want to think of something else.” But it’s rare for chance to yield the best possible result; deliberate intent has a far better track record. The trick is not squeezing the spontaneity out in the process. I think the approach I’ve described in the article strikes the right balance, and will yield a better game for everyone.

This level of conscious intentionality has never been in my toolbelt, but it’s certainly something I’ve always considered in broader terms. Ensuring everyone has a role to play & a time to shine is an important part of the GM’s job, and there’s some serious meat here on how to consider that when planning.

My favorite bit in this one, though, is considering meshing with the group during the character concept phase. Mostly because it’s something I agree with so much, and try to foster during character creation.

Good stuff.