Last updated: 17 October 1999

Problems are character-based things that cause you difficulties and complications.

Problems generally involve other people and force you either to modify your behaviour, or face the consequences. That’s why the list doesn’t include traits like "colour-blind" or "one-handed." There’s nothing to stop you creating a one-handed character, but from a game-situation point of view, it doesn’t lend itself to creating situation hooks. It would make your character’s life hell, but that wouldn’t really come over in the game.

• In Debt: You are in debt to someone, over something. It may be money, a favour or whatever. This debt is making you do things you don't want to do, until you pay it off. (1 point.)
• Compulsion/Craving: You have a compulsion to do something. You must meet your compulsion regularly - if you do not your challenges will be one level harder. (2 points if satiating your craving might result in you being arrested, locked-up or lynched, 1 point otherwise.)
• Secret: You have a secret that must not be revealed. Otherwise it might cause considerable inconvenience for you and your family. Unfortunately, one other person (you decide) already knows. (2 points if uncovering the Secret means your life would be in jeopardy, 1 point otherwise.)
• Wanted by the Authorities: You are wanted by the authorities for some reason. If they catch up with you they will fine you or throw you in prison. (1 point.)
• Rival: You have a bitter rival who is doing their utmost to beat you. This rival will need to be detailed - what did you do to earn their enmity? (1 point.)
• Enemy: You have an enemy who would prefer to see you dead and has taken it upon themselves to see you fail. Who is it and what on earth did you do to upset them? (2 points.)