City of Heroes Character Creation Guide

The City of Heroes character creator is perhaps the most robust in all of video gaming. New players must choose between a multitude of powerset and origin options and then take on the daunting task of choosing between the nearly limitless options for customizing their character’s appearance. Even MMO veterans can find the numerous options overwhelming.

Fortunately, we’ve created this guide to walk you through the process. From origin and power selection to character creation tips, follow the advice found here and you’ll be out blasting criminals as a hero or preying on the weak as a villain in no time.

One general tip regarding character creation. It really helps to have a general idea for your character in mind before you begin. With all the options available, it’s easy to become overwhelmed or lost without some basic blueprint for your character in mind.

First off, simply click the “Create Character” button in any empty character slot and you’ll be presented with the choice between creating a hero and creating a villain. This is an important decision, as the available powersets vary quite a bit between the two factions. Make sure you have a specific archetype in mind before you begin creating your character.

After you’ve taken your first step down the path of righteousness or the slippery downward slope of villainy, you will arrive at the archetype selection screen. New players are limited to five archetypes (the final two are only available on accounts with at least one player at maximum level), so choose wisely. Next, you will be asked to choose an origin for your character.

The differences between the five origins are minor, mostly affecting which enhancements can be equipped by your character and some of the missions you’ll receive later on, so if you have a strong preference, go with the origin that suits the particular character you have in mind.

Next, you are asked to choose a primary powerset. Choose wisely, as you will be unable to change once you’ve selected one. I recommend checking out each powerset, reading the descriptions of the starting powers, but also the ones you will acquire down the road.

It’s important to have powers that you think are cool to work towards. Consider what kind of fighter you want your hero or villain to be. Do you want to excel at one on one fighting or perhaps be able to decimate massed enemies with AoE damage? Make sure you choose powers that fit your personal preference.

Once you’ve chosen your primary powerset and starting power, you’ll be taken to the secondary power pool selection screen. The key here is to choose powers that are complimentary to your primary power. If you’ve chosen a ranged primary, for example, choosing a melee defense secondary would probably be less effective than some other choices. Once again, choose carefully, as you’re stuck with the powerset you choose for the long haul.