The Joy of Character Profile Commissions

[GearRyu]

Many roleplayers like to create character profiles; these profiles are used to inform others about their characters. Their mere existence is also a handy tool to give the creator ideas on how they want to play their character.

I accept character profile commissions in order to help players update, expand, or create character concepts; bringing diversity and breadth. The trick is to create characters that are broad enough that they can meaningfully relate to a variety of characters and fit into many circumstances; while at the same time retaining an identity.

The biggest problem I see with many character profiles is inflexibility. The characters work well in only one setting or set-up. That's fine if you never want to branch out, but many players create these narrow concepts accidentally. Ironically, I see this very often with transformation-themed characters. They repeat the same transformation ad infinitum, despite the foundation of transformation being change - being thrust into unfamiliar circumstances.

The other problem, then, is characters who are too broad. "I'm a dragon" doesn't give other players much to go off of. Neither does the idea of a character who can do anything, or be anyone. Technically, these should be able to fit into just about anything. In practice, they are boring because they do not ignite the imagination.

By creating character profiles for people, I give them a chance to express themselves in new ways. I always go off some direction of the commissioner and tailor it to their particular needs. My role is to create a channel for you to express your concept. You are the one who brings life to the character.

You can find several examples of commissioned character profiles in my galleries on FurAffinity and deviantART.

Also, some examples of characters I have created for myself.
Alexis Couer
Daniel Oswin
Lily Parks
Shori