What makes a character real?

One of the best traits of a good role-player is the ability to make their character(s) seem lifelike and real. So what makes a character real?

1) Characters are real when they respond to the world around them.

If someone throws a glass against the wall with a loud crash, a character should respond by jumping, getting angry, smirking, or reacting in some other manner. Reacting to the things happening around your character can be difficult in a crowded room, but even if you have trouble keeping up you can use the chaos of the room as a valid reason for why your character might miss something. Keep in mind to keep character reactions realistic. If a bomb goes off in the center of the room at the same moment that someone throws the glass against the wall then it's only normal to react to the bomb before the shattered glass.

2) Characters are real when they are flawed.

The flaw can be a physical one such as a scar or a limp. It can also be a personality trait. Some characters are stubborn to the point of foolishness. Some faint at the sight of blood. Others must respond to any and all challenges. Flaws are sometimes the best way to give a sense of lifelikeness to a character since every living human has their own flaws.

3) A character is real when there is a detailed continuity of movement.

Be descriptive. Remember that the other person needs to have a good idea of what you are doing in order for a spar or sim to be effective. Details can also greatly distinguish your character from others.

4) Characters are real when they have signature habits and expressions.

For example, in a moment of confusion a character may arch their eyebrow up or tilt their head to the side to show their confusion instead of stating their feelings outloud. Body actions are often used to react to situations moreso than words, and people generally make a habit of what reactions and expressions they express when faced with various situations.

5) A character is real when they are consistent.

If you play a character who keeps his/her cool and can't be ruffled then don't start yelling at everyone who happens to walk by. Likewise, if you character is heavy and slow he / she should not have very good maneuvering abilities whenever you feel like it. Stick to your character's personality, habits, powers, and abilities.

6) A character is real when they have a history.

This doesn't mean you have to hammer out all the details of your character's life before you play them, but you should at least have a vague sketch of their past at hand. A character will react to a certain situation based on his/her past experience. A world weary mercenary will react differently to the sight of a bleeding stranger than an innocent child.

For more tips of making your character realistic visit the "Role-Playing Guidelines".