New Characters

It may come to pass that a player character that is part of the party dies. In order to streamline the reintegration of the player, these homebrew rules will be utilized.  

Mechanical Rules

The new character should be balanced with the existing party and not feel overpowered or underpowered. Adjustments include:

Level Matching

The new character’s level matches the party’s average level, but starts with no accrued experience points (XP). They progress normally from that point.

Wealth and Gear

The new character starts with gear equivalent to the wealth of the deceased PC or the average wealth of the party (whichever is lower).

Any magical items of the deceased PC may be redistributed to the party unless narratively retained by the new character.

Class and Role Balance

The new character should fill a niche or role complementary to the party (e.g., healer, damage dealer, tank) unless the player opts for narrative reasons to diverge.

Compensation Mechanic

To offset the loss of time and investment, the new character can receive a one-time bonus feat or +1 to any ability score. 

Death Legacy System (Optional)

To give the deceased character’s story weight and provide continuity:

Legacy Items

1. • The deceased character can pass down a single item to their replacement, imbued with a special property tied to their legacy. For example:

     • A sword that deals an extra 1d4 radiant damage in the hands of the new character, representing the fallen hero's spirit.

     • A journal containing knowledge of their journey, providing advantage on Intelligence checks related to their past adventures.

Reputation Impact

1. • The new character might benefit from or struggle with the deceased character’s reputation. NPCs could recognize the new character as a successor or hold grudges due to the fallen PC's actions.

Roleplaying Guidelines

Initial Trust Building

1. • The party doesn’t automatically trust the new character. Integrate roleplaying moments where the newcomer proves their worth.

Personal Goals

1. • The new character must have personal goals that align or conflict with the party’s mission to add depth and tension.

Resurrection Clause

If the party has access to resurrection spells and plans to revive the deceased character:

1. Player Choice: The player can choose to delay creating a new character until resurrection is attempted. However, this risks downtime if the attempt fails.

2. Temporary Role: The player may temporarily take control of a supporting NPC or creature during this time.