Who Should I Start? A Guide To Choosing Your First Character

Sep 23, 2025 by ADMIN 61 views

Choosing the right character to start with in any game, especially a complex one, can feel like a big decision. It's totally understandable to feel a little overwhelmed! You want to make a good first impression, learn the ropes effectively, and most importantly, have fun. This guide is here to help you navigate that decision, breaking down the key factors to consider so you can confidently pick a character that suits your playstyle and goals. We'll explore different approaches to character selection, discuss the importance of understanding your own preferences, and offer some specific recommendations for various game genres. So, let's dive in and find the perfect starting character for you!

Understanding Your Playstyle: The Foundation of Character Choice

Before we even start looking at specific characters, the most crucial step is understanding your own playstyle. What kind of gamer are you? Do you thrive in the thick of the action, prefer a more strategic approach from a distance, or enjoy supporting your teammates? Answering these questions will significantly narrow down your options and point you towards characters that naturally align with your preferences. Think about the games you've enjoyed in the past – what roles did you gravitate towards? Did you like being the damage dealer, the healer, or the tank? Maybe you prefer a more versatile character that can adapt to different situations.

Consider these different playstyles and how they might translate into character choices:

Aggressive/Offensive: If you love being in the front lines, dealing damage, and taking risks, you might enjoy characters with high damage output, strong mobility, or abilities that allow them to initiate fights. These characters are often referred to as "carries" or "damage dealers" and are crucial for securing victories.
Defensive/Supportive: If you prefer protecting your teammates, controlling the battlefield, and providing assistance, support characters might be your calling. These characters typically have healing abilities, crowd control skills, or buffs that enhance their allies' performance. They are the backbone of any team and are essential for sustained success.
Strategic/Tactical: If you enjoy planning ahead, setting up ambushes, and outsmarting your opponents, characters with strong control abilities, utility skills, or map awareness might be a good fit. These characters often excel at flanking maneuvers, securing objectives, and disrupting enemy strategies.
Versatile/Adaptable: If you like being able to handle a variety of situations and switching between roles, characters with a balanced skillset and multiple options might be ideal. These characters are often referred to as "flex" picks and can fill different roles as needed.

Once you have a good understanding of your preferred playstyle, you can start looking for characters that match those preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment and try out different roles – you might be surprised at what you discover! Remember, the goal is to have fun, so choose a character that you enjoy playing. The first step to a great gaming experience is understanding your own preferences. What really gets you excited about playing? Are you all about the thrill of dealing massive damage and taking down enemies quickly? Or do you get more satisfaction from strategically outmaneuvering your opponents and setting up the perfect play? Maybe you're the type of player who loves supporting your team, ensuring their survival, and contributing to the win in a more subtle but equally important way. Think about what truly resonates with you, what aspects of gameplay you find most engaging, and what kind of impact you want to have on the game. This self-awareness is the foundation of choosing a character you'll not only be good at but also genuinely enjoy playing. Don't just pick a character because they're considered "strong" or "meta." Pick a character because their playstyle aligns with your own natural inclinations. This will make the learning process more enjoyable and help you stay motivated to improve. Consider the different roles within the game – tank, healer, damage dealer, support, etc. – and which one feels most natural to you. Do you like being in the thick of the action, soaking up damage and protecting your teammates? Or do you prefer hanging back, providing healing and buffs, and keeping everyone alive? Maybe you're a natural strategist, always thinking several steps ahead and positioning yourself for the best possible advantage. Or perhaps you thrive in high-pressure situations, dealing massive damage and carrying your team to victory. There's no right or wrong answer here; it's all about finding what works best for you.

Game Genre Matters: Tailoring Your Choice to the Game

Of course, the game genre you're playing will significantly impact your character choice. A character that excels in a fast-paced fighting game might be completely different from one that shines in a strategic RPG. Understanding the core mechanics and objectives of the game is essential for making an informed decision. Let's look at a few popular genres and discuss what to consider when choosing a starting character:

MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas): MOBAs like League of Legends and Dota 2 often feature a wide variety of characters with distinct roles and abilities. Consider your preferred lane (top, mid, jungle, bot) and the types of characters that typically excel in those roles. Beginners often find success with simpler characters that have straightforward abilities and clear objectives. These characters usually allow the player to learn the basic game mechanics, understand items and how they are built, and grasp the basic concepts of the game before moving on to more complex characters.
RPGs (Role-Playing Games): RPGs offer a vast array of character classes, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Think about your preferred combat style (melee, ranged, magic) and the type of character progression you enjoy. Some RPGs emphasize character customization, allowing you to tailor your character's abilities and skills to your specific playstyle. It is important to understand what role character customization plays in this game. Is it simply aesthetic, or can a character's class and role change based on customizations? This will weigh heavily on initial character choice.
Fighting Games: Fighting games require precise timing and execution. Beginners often benefit from choosing characters with simple move sets and forgiving combos. Focus on learning the fundamentals of movement, blocking, and basic attacks before diving into more complex techniques. The skill ceiling is remarkably high in fighting games, and having a foundation is crucial before taking on complex characters.
Shooters (First-Person and Third-Person): Shooters often feature characters with unique abilities or loadouts. Consider your preferred weapon type (rifles, shotguns, snipers) and your playstyle (aggressive, defensive, supportive). Some shooters emphasize teamwork and communication, so choosing a character that complements your team's composition is crucial. Understanding the objectives of the game itself is also very important, as is identifying whether or not a particular character excels at these objectives.

No matter the genre, take some time to research the different characters available and understand their strengths, weaknesses, and intended roles. Many games offer tutorials or practice modes that allow you to try out different characters before committing to one. Genre-specific advice is absolutely vital. The skills and strategies that make you successful in one type of game might be completely ineffective in another. Think about the core gameplay loop of the genre you're diving into. Is it about strategic team fights, fast-paced individual duels, or exploring a vast open world? For instance, in a MOBA, understanding the concept of laning, farming, and team composition is crucial before you even pick a character. You'll want to choose a champion that fits your preferred lane and role, while also considering the overall needs of your team. In an RPG, the character class you choose will have a significant impact on your entire experience. Do you want to be a powerful warrior, a cunning rogue, or a wise mage? Each class will offer a unique playstyle and progression path. In a fighting game, the character you pick will define your approach to combat. Some characters are aggressive and in-your-face, while others are more defensive and rely on zoning tactics. In a shooter, you'll need to think about your preferred weapon types, your playstyle (aggressive, defensive, supportive), and how well your chosen character complements your team's composition. Each game genre presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities, and the character you choose should reflect that. Don't just pick a character because they look cool or seem powerful; pick a character whose strengths align with the genre's core mechanics and your personal preferences. This will set you up for a much more enjoyable and successful experience. The mechanics of the game are another factor. What are the objectives? How do players win? These core rules and mechanics are important.

Trial and Error: Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

The best way to find the perfect starting character is often through trial and error. Don't be afraid to try out different characters, even if they don't initially seem like a good fit. You might be surprised at what you discover! Many games offer free trial periods or practice modes that allow you to experiment without any commitment. Take advantage of these opportunities to get a feel for different characters and their playstyles. Don't get discouraged if you don't immediately click with a particular character. It takes time to learn the intricacies of any character, and some characters have steeper learning curves than others. If you're struggling with a particular character, try watching gameplay videos or reading guides to learn more about their abilities and strategies. The fun of gaming is that it is not always clear what character will be a good fit for the player. Sometimes, players have an expectation of a role, or a fantasy, that they want to experience in the game, but the character might not be a good fit for them. Trial and error is a great way to overcome this and to try other roles that are unexpected.

Remember, the goal is to have fun, so don't put too much pressure on yourself to find the "perfect" character right away. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the journey of discovery. As you gain experience with the game, your preferences and playstyle may evolve, and you may find yourself gravitating towards different characters. The important thing is to stay open-minded and continue to experiment until you find a character that you truly enjoy playing. Moreover, it is also important to understand how a particular character can be successful in the game. Many characters are built to be highly strategic, requiring players to not only make good plays and decisions, but also to understand how to play around the team. What is the character's role in the team? How can they help make the team succeed? Thinking about these questions early will allow you to really get into the mind of the character and understand how it should be played in the game. Experimenting doesn't just mean trying different characters; it also means trying different playstyles within the same character. Many characters have multiple viable builds or strategies, and you might find that one approach resonates with you more than others. Don't be afraid to deviate from the norm and experiment with different skill combinations, item builds, or playstyles. You might discover a hidden gem or a unique way to play a character that suits your personal preferences. Also, consider your long-term goals in the game. Are you looking to climb the ranked ladder, compete in tournaments, or simply enjoy playing with friends? Your goals might influence your character choice. For example, if you're aiming for competitive play, you might want to focus on characters that are considered strong in the current meta. If you're primarily playing with friends, you might prioritize characters that complement your friends' playstyles or allow you to play together effectively. And if you're just looking to have fun, choose a character that you find enjoyable and engaging, regardless of their perceived strength or popularity.

Seeking Guidance: Utilize Resources and Communities

One of the best resources for choosing a starting character is the game's community. Online forums, wikis, and social media groups are filled with experienced players who are eager to share their knowledge and advice. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or seek guidance from other players. Explain your preferred playstyle, the types of characters you've enjoyed in the past, and any specific concerns you have. The community can offer valuable insights and help you narrow down your options. Many games also have dedicated tutorial systems or in-game guides that provide information about different characters and their abilities. Take advantage of these resources to learn the basics of each character before making a final decision. Watching gameplay videos of experienced players can also be incredibly helpful. You can see how different characters are played in practice and get a sense of their strengths and weaknesses. There are countless videos available on platforms like YouTube and Twitch, covering a wide range of games and characters. Seek out content creators who specialize in the game you're playing and watch their videos to learn tips, tricks, and strategies. Asking for guidance is a great way to learn more about a game, particularly about its characters, and there are resources both within and outside of a game.

Don't underestimate the power of the community. Most gaming communities are incredibly welcoming and supportive, especially to new players. People are passionate about their favorite games and characters, and they're usually happy to share their knowledge and help others get started. So, don't be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and engage in discussions. You might discover new characters, strategies, or even make some new friends along the way. The community can also help you stay up-to-date on the latest game updates, balance changes, and meta shifts. Knowing which characters are currently strong or weak can influence your decision, especially if you're aiming for competitive play. However, it's important to remember that the meta is constantly evolving, and what's strong today might not be strong tomorrow. So, don't base your entire decision solely on the meta. Choose a character that you enjoy playing and that you're willing to invest time in, regardless of their current perceived strength. Game developers and publishers are another potentially great resource for additional information. Many studios have active social media presences, where announcements are made, updates are posted, and players can interact with members of the development team. Often, the team might post about new characters in a game or how older characters have been changed and rebalanced. Sometimes, developers will even weigh in on community discussions, adding clarity or information that hadn't been present before. This can be very helpful for players looking for the best characters to play or to better understand the gameplay of characters that the player already enjoys. In some cases, developers might also make announcements on their own websites or via official forums. Take the time to explore some of these sites and to find out more about characters, strategies, and tactics.

Initial Character Recommendations

While the best starting character ultimately depends on your individual preferences and the specific game you're playing, here are a few general recommendations for some popular genres:

MOBAs: Characters with straightforward abilities and clear roles, such as tanks or supports, are often a good starting point. Examples include Annie (League of Legends) and Crystal Maiden (Dota 2).
RPGs: Warrior or mage classes are often beginner-friendly due to their versatile abilities and relatively simple gameplay. Examples include Fighters or Paladins in many fantasy RPGs or a magic-based character that is a class such as a Wizard or a Sorcerer.
Fighting Games: Characters with simple move sets and forgiving combos, such as Ryu (Street Fighter) or Sub-Zero (Mortal Kombat), are ideal for learning the fundamentals.
Shooters: Characters with balanced weapons and abilities, such as Soldier: 76 (Overwatch) or standard rifle-wielding characters in games like Call of Duty, are good for getting a feel for the game's mechanics.

These are just a few suggestions, of course, and there are many other excellent starting characters available in each genre. The key is to do your research, experiment with different options, and find a character that you enjoy playing. The important part of the starting character is that a player can learn the fundamentals. Games, like other skills, require a solid bedrock of understanding to become a successful player. Without this bedrock, the rest of the game feels overwhelming, particularly when the player encounters opponents who understand the fundamental principles and utilize them effectively. It is for this reason that a first character must not be too complex, either in their abilities or their strategic use. The character should allow the player to really learn the game. A ranged class in an RPG is often a good idea for this, particularly if the character isn't too fragile and can take a hit or two. The ranged component will teach the player about distance and positioning, which is crucial in RPGs. A tank character is also a great choice because it will teach the player about the importance of health and taking damage, as well as drawing aggro from enemies. Characters that are support classes are often too complex because their entire purpose is to help the other characters. This requires a degree of game sense that a new player won't have. For the initial characters, it is important to choose a character that can do almost everything, or enough things, that the player will have a better understanding of how other characters should function. For example, a fighter class will provide a player with an understanding of damage dealing, taking hits, resource management, and class-specific mechanics.

Final Thoughts: The Journey Matters More Than the Destination

Choosing your first character is an important decision, but it's not the only decision. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, try new things, and learn from your experiences. The journey of mastering a character and becoming a skilled player is just as rewarding as reaching the end goal. So, take your time, do your research, and choose a character that you're excited to play. And most importantly, have fun! Remember that no choice is ever truly permanent. You can always try a new character, a new class, or even a new build within a game to find something that really resonates with you. Games are about having fun and experiencing a sense of accomplishment. Both of these should be at the forefront of your mind, and the choice of an initial character should reflect this. Don't play a character that feels frustrating or challenging just because other people say that it is a good choice. The character should feel natural to the way that you play. It should be comfortable, not something that you fight against or have to force. Over time, your preferences might change as you learn more about the game. This is a natural part of the gaming experience. Sometimes, a player's favorite character in a game ends up being very different from the character that the player initially envisioned. The player might even end up having a different understanding of their playstyle! This is perfectly fine, and the best thing a player can do is embrace this change and enjoy learning new facets of the game, new characters, and new ways of playing. With all of this in mind, you'll be ready to pick the character that is right for you, and you'll be one step closer to enjoying everything that gaming has to offer.