Rules reference
Character creation in Hunter: The Reckoning 5th Edition
Creation steps and common decision points. Hunter: The Reckoning 5th Edition is a tabletop RPG where you play as ordinary humans who have been "Imbued" with supernatural awareness, allowing you to see and hunt the monsters that prey on humanity. As part of the Vigil, you track your Conviction, manage your Edges, and work with your cell to protect the innocent.
Key points
Use this as a checklist, then build your character in RPG Stack.
Copyable facts
- 5 Creeds: Entrepreneurial, Faithful, Inquisitive, Martial, Underground
- Edge system: Supernatural abilities granted by the Imbuing
- Conviction mechanics: Fuels Edges, represents commitment to Vigil
- Cell system: Hunters work in groups for safety
- Monster hunting focus: Investigate, prepare, hunt
- Human vulnerability: Still human, powerful but fragile
Creation order (from system.json)
- Choose Concept and Creed
- Pick a Drive (your personal motivation for the Hunt)
- Distribute Attributes: assign values across all 9 attributes — one at 4, three at 3, four at 2, one at 1 (not divided by category)
- Distribute Skills: choose one template — Jack of All Trades (1 at 3, 8 at 2, 10 at 1), Balanced (3 at 3, 5 at 2, 7 at 1), or Specialist (1 at 4, 3 at 3, 3 at 2, 3 at 1)
- Choose 3 Skill Specialties
- Assign Edges: choose 2 Edges and 1 Perk, or 1 Edge and 2 Perks
- Choose Backgrounds (7 dots), Merits, and Flaws
- Pick Touchstones and determine Desperation trigger
- Calculate derived traits: Health, Willpower, Desperation
Examples
Example: Concept first
Start with a simple concept (role + vibe), then choose attributes/skills that support it. You can fill details later.
Example: One signature move
Make sure your sheet supports a signature action you want to do often (investigate, intimidate, hack, heal, etc.).
Common mistakes (smallest fix)
- Mistake: Skipping concept and getting lost in options. Fix: Pick a role, pick 2 strengths, pick 1 weakness, then fill details.
- Mistake: Not aligning your sheet with the campaign. Fix: Ask what kind of scenes you’ll play (combat, investigation, politics) and build for that.
Hunter FAQ
What are Creeds in Hunter 5e?
How does Conviction work in Hunter 5e?
What are Edges in Hunter 5e?
What is a cell?
How powerful are Hunters compared to monsters?