Background Grifter

Grifter

You're an expert at exploiting the weaknesses of human nature, using a combination of charm, wit, and cunning to achieve your goals. Whether you specialize in small cons or elaborate schemes, your talents for deception and performance are almost unparalleled. Your past may be a tangle of half-truths and lies, and it's up to you how much of it anyone else ever discovers.

Skill Proficiencies: Deception, Performance

Tool Proficiencies: Forgery Kit or Disguise Kit

Languages: 1 of your choice.

Equipment: A forgery kit and a disguise kit, a set of fine clothes, a small keepsake from a “successful” con, and a pouch containing 20 gp.

Starting Equipment

You start with the following equipment, in addition to the equipment granted by your class:

  • forgery kit and disguise kit
  • clothes, fine

Feature: Master of Deception

You can always find a way to insert yourself into social gatherings, exclusive events, or private affairs by forging invitations, posing as someone else, or using your natural charm. This feature does not make people trust you, but it does give you the chance to attend events or go places where you might not be allowed otherwise.

Suggested Characteristics

Grifters are often smooth talkers and fast thinkers, but their motivations can vary widely. Some are in it for the thrill, while others have specific goals or targets in mind. Their ability to read people often gives them unique insights into human behavior.

d8Personality Trait
d1I never let them see me sweat.
d2I have a joke or a quip for every situation.
d3I am extremely cautious and never take unnecessary risks.
d4I love living in the lap of luxury.
d5I can't resist a sob story; I have a soft spot for the underdog.
d6I take nothing at face value; everything has deeper meaning.
d7I never forget a face.
d8I prefer to remain an enigma; layers of deception keep me safe.
d6Ideal
d1Freedom: I can't stand feeling tied down. (Chaotic)
d2Greed: The whole world is just there for the taking. (Evil)
d3Charity: I redistribute wealth; I just keep a finder's fee. (Good)
d4Challenge: Life is a game, and I'm in it to win. (Neutral)
d5Revenge: Someone double-crossed me, and payback is coming. (Any)
d6Mastery: I aim to be the best at what I do. (Any)
d6Bond
d1I was part of a crew, and I'd do anything for them.
d2I owe everything to a mentor who taught me everything about the con.
d3I always leave a signature token at the scene of my greatest cons.
d4Love found me once, but the relationship ended tragically.
d5I have a child or younger sibling I support with my earnings.
d6My ultimate con is in the works, and nothing will stand in my way.
d6Flaw
d1I can't resist scamming a scammer.
d2My ambition often leads me to take unnecessary risks.
d3I have a tell that reveals when I'm lying, but I'm not aware of it.
d4I can't help but pocket anything shiny or valuable that catches my eye.
d5I have a vice (gambling, drink, etc.) that I can't resist.
d6My past is filled with burned bridges, and it's catching up to me.

Credits: Game Squire