Unlock the Magic of Naming in Fantasy RPGs

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Naming Characters in a Fantasy RPG Setting
   1. Creating Generic NPCs
   2. Using Qualities and Personality Traits
3. Naming Places in a Fantasy RPG Setting
   1. Smashing Descriptive Words Together
   2. Associating Words with Concept
   3. Using Real-World Locations for Inspiration
4. Naming Dragons in a Fantasy RPG Setting
   1. Tolkien-esque Approach
   2. Matt Mercer's Pattern of Naming
   3. Unique Names for Singular Dragons
5. Naming Fairies in a Fantasy RPG Setting
   1. Juxtaposing Ordinary and Strange
   2. Applying Descriptors from Folklore
   3. Taking Inspiration from Literature
6. The Power of Naming in Mythology
   1. True Names and Control over Magical Beings
   2. The Importance of True Names in Folklore
7. Consistent Naming Conventions in Worldbuilding
   1. Tiefling Naming Conventions in 5e
   2. Creating Naming Conventions for Dragons
   3. Using Naming to Convey Information about Beings
8. Conclusion

👑 Naming Characters and Places in a Fantasy RPG Setting

Naming is a crucial aspect of worldbuilding in a fantasy tabletop RPG setting. It adds depth and flavor to the characters, places, and creatures that populate the game world. In this article, we will explore different strategies for naming characters, places, and other elements in a way that enhances immersion and engagement for players.

🎭 Naming Characters

Creating Generic NPCs

When it comes to naming generic non-player characters (NPCs), it can be tempting to rely on generic lists divided by ancestry. However, this approach often lacks efficiency and results in names that feel interchangeable. Instead, consider using qualities or personality traits as a basis for naming. For example, categorize names based on the six core stats (e.g., wise-sounding names, strong-sounding names, etc.). This approach allows for more unique and fitting names for NPCs based on their attributes.

Using Qualities and Personality Traits

To create more memorable and fitting names for characters, consider associating names with qualities or personality traits. For example, use strong-sounding names like "Brutus" or "Ajax" for physically powerful characters, while reserving delicate or whimsical names like "Threadneedle" or "Shrink Lily" for more agile or sneaky characters. This approach adds depth to the character and helps players envision them more accurately.

🏰 Naming Places

Naming places in a fantasy RPG setting can be both a creative and challenging task. Here are some strategies to help you come up with compelling and evocative place names:

Smashing Descriptive Words Together

A simple and effective method for naming places is to combine two descriptive words that succinctly describe the location. For example, a town located in a forest by a creek could be named "Shadybrook," while a fortress on a cliff top might be called "Cragkeep." This approach creates place names with a classic fantasy flavor that are easy to imagine and remember.

Associating Words with Concept

Rather than inventing entirely new fantasy words, you can use words associated with the concept or theme of the place you are naming. Consider what the location represents in your game world and choose a word that encapsulates that concept. For instance, if the key premise of a city is the reliance on magic, you could name it "Miracle," symbolizing the city's ability to create its own miracles through advanced magic.

Using Real-World Locations for Inspiration

If you're looking for unique and diverse place names, a helpful trick is to browse real-world cities and locations on platforms like Google Maps. Select cities from regions with different languages and cultures than your own and identify distinctive geographical features. Then, translate words related to those features into the corresponding language for a truly immersive and authentic place name. For example, a harbor city based on "Sal Luis" in Brazil could be named "Maraceu," combining Portuguese words for "sea" and "sky."

👑 Naming Characters and Places in a Fantasy RPG Setting

Introduction

Naming is a crucial aspect of worldbuilding in a fantasy tabletop RPG setting. It adds depth and flavor to the characters, places, and creatures that populate the game world. In this article, we will explore different strategies for naming characters, places, and other elements in a way that enhances immersion and engagement for players.

Naming Characters

Creating Generic NPCs

When it comes to naming generic non-player characters (NPCs), it can be tempting to rely on generic lists divided by ancestry. However, this approach often lacks efficiency and results in names that feel interchangeable. Instead, consider using qualities or personality traits as a basis for naming. For example, categorize names based on the six core stats (e.g., wise-sounding names, strong-sounding names, etc.). This approach allows for more unique and fitting names for NPCs based on their attributes.

Using Qualities and Personality Traits

To create more memorable and fitting names for characters, consider associating names with qualities or personality traits. For example, use strong-sounding names like "Brutus" or "Ajax" for physically powerful characters, while reserving delicate or whimsical names like "Threadneedle" or "Shrink Lily" for more agile or sneaky characters. This approach adds depth to the character and helps players envision them more accurately.

Naming Places

Smashing Descriptive Words Together

A simple and effective method for naming places is to combine two descriptive words that succinctly describe the location. For example, a town located in a forest by a creek could be named "Shadybrook," while a fortress on a cliff top might be called "Cragkeep." This approach creates place names with a classic fantasy flavor that are easy to imagine and remember.

Associating Words with Concept

Rather than inventing entirely new fantasy words, you can use words associated with the concept or theme of the place you are naming. Consider what the location represents in your game world and choose a word that encapsulates that concept. For instance, if the key premise of a city is the reliance on magic, you could name it "Miracle," symbolizing the city's ability to create its own miracles through advanced magic.

Using Real-World Locations for Inspiration

If you're looking for unique and diverse place names, a helpful trick is to browse real-world cities and locations on platforms like Google Maps. Select cities from regions with different languages and cultures than your own and identify distinctive geographical features. Then, translate words related to those features into the corresponding language for a truly immersive and authentic place name. For example, a harbor city based on "Sal Luis" in Brazil could be named "Maraceu," combining Portuguese words for "sea" and "sky."

Naming Dragons and Fairies

Dragons and fairies are iconic creatures in fantasy settings, and naming them requires careful consideration. The approach to naming these creatures can vary depending on the tone and style of your game world. Let's explore some strategies:

Naming Dragons

Dragons are majestic and powerful beings, deserving of names that evoke awe and respect. Here are three popular approaches to naming dragons:

Tolkien-esque Approach

In the tradition of J.R.R. Tolkien, you can assign dragons proper names that reflect their personality, physical characteristics, or deeds. Names like "Smorg" or "Glaurung" create a sense of gravitas and ancient history. These names have a mythical quality that emphasizes the dragon's significance in the world.

Matt Mercer's Pattern of Naming

Matt Mercer, a renowned game master, has developed a distinct pattern for naming dragons and Dragonborn in his games. He uses a combination of unusual syllables and consonant sounds to create names that sound otherworldly. These names, such as "Catherine Neuronazier" or "Cora Vaccinarir de Zavanex,” give off an aura of mystery and unpronounceable power.

Unique Names for Singular Dragons

In some game worlds, each dragon may be the only one of its kind. In this case, the dragons can be given specific titles or reputations that evolve over time. Titles like "Providence," "Lightning Strike," or "Tireless Stone" are memorable and signify the unique traits or feats of the dragon. These names distinguish them from others and emphasize their individuality.

Naming Fairies

Fairies are enchanting, magical creatures with a rich folklore and mythology. When naming fairies, it is essential to capture their ethereal nature and create names that feel both familiar and otherworldly. Here are some approaches to naming fairies:

Juxtaposing Ordinary and Strange

Fairies often have names that combine ordinary words with something strange or whimsical. By juxtaposing these elements, you create names that sound both familiar and fantastical. For example, "Jack Frost," "Jenny Greenteeth," or "Robin Goodfellow" blend ordinary names with fantastical descriptors, creating an otherworldly charm.

Applying Descriptors from Folklore

Drawing inspiration from folklore, you can give fairies names that are directly associated with their characteristics or abilities. Consider words that evoke a sense of magic or nature and combine them with ordinary names. Names like "Susanna Clerk Nails" or "William Heartstrings Twilight" convey a fusion of the ordinary and mystical, embodying the essence of fairies.

Taking Inspiration from Literature

Literature, especially classic works like "Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell" by Susanna Clarke, offers a wealth of fairy naming conventions. Susanna Clarke combines ordinary names with descriptors that evoke intrigue, such as "The Gentleman with the Thistledown Hair" or "Dickcome Tuesday." By imitating this style, you can create unique and evocative fairy names for your game world.

The Power of Naming in Mythology

Across different mythologies and folklore, the power of naming and the concept of true names hold great significance. True names are believed to provide control over magical beings and demons. In mythology, it is believed that by knowing the true name of a being, one gains power over them.

This concept can be incorporated into your fantasy RPG setting. For example, a quest to uncover a demon's true name can serve as a pivotal plot point and give players a strategic advantage. Likewise, certain magical beings, like fairies, may guard their true names fiercely, as they know the power it holds over them.

Consistent Naming Conventions in Worldbuilding

Consistency in naming conventions can strengthen the worldbuilding in your RPG setting. By establishing consistent rules for naming within specific races or cultures, you create a sense of cohesion and believability. Here are a few examples:

Tiefling Naming Conventions in 5e

The "Player's Handbook" for Dungeons & Dragons 5e provides naming conventions for tieflings. Tieflings strive to find a place in the world and often adopt names that signify a virtue or concept they strive to embody. These names, such as "Excellence," "Sorrow," or "Carrion," add depth to tiefling characters and reflect the complex nature of their existence.

Creating Naming Conventions for Dragons

To reinforce the unique nature of dragons in your game world, consider creating naming conventions specifically for dragons. These conventions can vary based on the dragon's breed, alignment, or role in the world. Consistent naming patterns, like using specific suffixes or prefixes, can help players quickly identify and understand the significance of each dragon they encounter.

Using Naming to Convey Information about Beings

Naming conventions can be used to convey information about beings beyond just their names. By using consistent patterns or descriptors, you can provide players with subtle cues about a character's background, culture, or abilities. For example, a naming convention that associates certain suffixes with magical abilities indicates that a character possesses innate magical talent.

Conclusion

Naming characters, places, and creatures in a fantasy RPG setting is an art that requires careful consideration. By applying these strategies and embracing the power of naming, you can enhance the immersion and engagement of your players. Remember, consistency, depth, and a sprinkle of creativity are key in creating memorable and evocative names in your game world. Happy naming!