Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Kaewin 05-04-07, 10:44 AM	Finding a name can be a hard thing. When I play D&D I have to struggle to get a good name after this pc is the investment in time. Usually I go to a an Irish Name web site. WoD darkness is not much easier. Human names are easy anyone can do that. But in Werewolf they get deed names which the group loves. The problem generally is that the elder(that would be me) have to come up with the Deed Name. Makes it easier for them but harder for me. So I have to way all of their actions and award them a GREAT name or they will be unhappy. The good thing is that some of the Werewolves name themselves to fly in the face of tradition, thank you Bonegnawers. Where do you get insperation? Do you pull them from novels or various website? Or are they just plucked from the ether? __________________
Panurg 05-04-07, 10:51 AM	The Silmarilion has an index of names used in it on it's last pages. In the FRCS are names listed according to their regional heritage.
The Ubbergeek 05-04-07, 11:46 AM	Lot of sources. The old historical sourcebooks of D&D suggested names, and somes modern books do so - look by example when they offer races, they gives sample names. There is also books of names, and such ressources - I can suggest you the Everchanging Book of Names, a free shareware with many 'books' addon for cultures and races offered. It's free to download at http://ebon.pyorre.net/. Also, one fdorgotten ressource are videogames - somes have incorporated name makers in their codes, for npc or even pc. Like ogre Battle or Neverwinter Nights. You can try at Neverwinter Nights to make names at random and see what it offers. :)
Lord Karsus 05-06-07, 08:21 PM	There is also books of names, and such ressources - I can suggest you the Everchanging Book of Names, a free shareware with many 'books' addon for cultures and races offered. It's free to download at http://ebon.pyorre.net/. -I'll second the reccomendation. The EBoN is definitley worth the money (Wait- it's free! :D )
MerrikCale 05-06-07, 10:13 PM	I just copy names that Lord Karsus comes up with
Lord Karsus 05-07-07, 08:29 AM	I just copy names that Lord Karsus comes up with -Those are only Elven names, though. It wouldn't do to have a Dwarf named Araevin.
Karsus the Mad 05-08-07, 06:01 PM	For random naming, the language of Gibberese is my method:P I simply make funky, single sylable sounds, articulating it in different ways, until I find a sound I like, and repeat until I find a second sylable that goes with the first. I often do it a third time as well, since I like names with triple sylables. Another method I use is to simple scribble a dozen or so letters at random, then try and rearange them to create something that I can't pronounce:P For region specific names, I try to find names of the region and attempt to create one that sounds like it would fit.
Zandilar 05-08-07, 06:51 PM	Heya, There are lots of name generators on the internet. People have mentioned the Everchanging Book of Names already... I found this one the other day: Serendipity (http://nine.frenchboys.net/fanname.php) Then there's Wizard's very own: Character Name Generator (http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/dnd/20010208b) I like to steer clear of "Real Earth Names" for the Forgotten Realms, but if you don't have the same aversion, search for baby name tools - I recommend Behind the Name (http://www.behindthename.com/). Name meanings can be important to characters, so you might want to look at the meanings rather than just how names sound. :)
The Ubbergeek 05-08-07, 07:54 PM	I disagree about real names - somes of the more archaic, older ones or exotic ones can be good. And I am a big proponent of making names that suit the culture of the origin of the character - samurai should not be called 'bob', or an hussar-like guy named Li Po.
Lord Karsus 05-08-07, 11:48 PM	-Some actual names fit in a fantasy world like the Realms. Brian, Jill, John, Claire and Ester are a few that I can think of off the top of my head that already exist in the Realms.
Faraer 05-09-07, 12:06 AM	They still don't fit: they were made up by authors unaware or careless of what Realms names are like.
Lord Karsus 05-09-07, 12:12 AM	They still don't fit: they were made up by authors unaware or careless of what Realms names are like. -Strange, since three of those five characters were created by Elaine Cunningham, and one was created (I believe) by either Steve Schend or Ed.
Faraer 05-09-07, 01:21 AM	Elaine and I argued about this in the long ago. She has since, graciously, changed her mind.
Aegis_Chiron 05-09-07, 02:49 AM	I either steal them liberaly from other fantasy genre books, make them up after thinking for AGES on the name or, if I'm really desperate, I open the Bible. in eitehr 1 or 2 Chronicles, chapter 1-10 has nothing but geneology. And with all that begat-ing there are 100's of name to pick and choose from. I will admit that they work best for human names. For dwarf names, the old 2e Complete Book of Dwarves has a radom name generator. It's at the end of Chapter 4.
Zandilar 05-09-07, 03:40 AM	Heya, -Some actual names fit in a fantasy world like the Realms. Brian, Jill, John, Claire and Ester are a few that I can think of off the top of my head that already exist in the Realms. I know how difficult names are to come up with, I've sat at the screen many a time, wracking my brain for a good name. I admit, that sometimes I lose the battle and end up consulting a baby name book (or online baby name website). One novel I finished* has all "Real" Earth names in it (though I did try to stick to names all from the same region/language, and the world itself is rather suggestive of Earth), and one I started in my teen years has a few Earth names scattered through out it. So I guess I shouldn't judge other authors on the names they select. ;) Still I would only resort to Earth names as a last resort in the context of Faerun. :) * Yep, finished novel, but unpublished. I've got nothing published yet. Waiting on a magazine for a short story, and am trying to work out what to do next regarding the novel.
Lord Karsus 05-09-07, 08:31 AM	I know how difficult names are to come up with, I've sat at the screen many a time, wracking my brain for a good name. -If you don't have it, I'll recommend downloading that Everchanging Book of Names program. Before I downloaded it, I often did the same (Just sitting there, thinking). I still make up unique names, but the EBoN really makes things much easier when I hit a blank. Elaine and I argued about this in the long ago. She has since, graciously, changed her mind. -You know, once I convinced the Queen of England to order Earl Grey, instead of Orange Pekoe. She, too, listened. :rolleyes:
Lord_Steve 05-09-07, 01:13 PM	How bout Kobold and Goblin names????
Faraer 05-09-07, 02:02 PM	For dwarf names, the old 2e Complete Book of Dwarves has a radom name generator. It's at the end of Chapter 4.Better, FR11 Dwarves Deep (http://paizo.com/store/brand/forgottenRealms/roleplayingGames/2ndEdition/v5748btpy7mku) has a name list.How bout Kobold and Goblin names????Like this: kobolds: Kuthil, Khulld Mrym, Olgloth Ryndrinn, Ulag Selgryn, Urlbluk, Vhue goblins: Garag, Ghaur, Illish, Kreeth, Mhaerg, Nethaug, Nnesk, Ulagh, Vuhrund
The Ubbergeek 05-09-07, 05:17 PM	Heya, I know how difficult names are to come up with, I've sat at the screen many a time, wracking my brain for a good name. I admit, that sometimes I lose the battle and end up consulting a baby name book (or online baby name website). One novel I finished* has all "Real" Earth names in it (though I did try to stick to names all from the same region/language, and the world itself is rather suggestive of Earth), and one I started in my teen years has a few Earth names scattered through out it. So I guess I shouldn't judge other authors on the names they select. ;) Still I would only resort to Earth names as a last resort in the context of Faerun. :) * Yep, finished novel, but unpublished. I've got nothing published yet. Waiting on a magazine for a short story, and am trying to work out what to do next regarding the novel. I will say, I prefer a cool real world name than some stupid/unproononcable/ridiculous made up one. Better a Baldric or Ulric than Blitipit or Kruuuyahahxa. :rolleyes:
Zandilar 05-09-07, 06:24 PM	Heya, I will say, I prefer a cool real world name than some stupid/unproononcable/ridiculous made up one. Better a Baldric or Ulric than Blitipit or Kruuuyahahxa. :rolleyes: Oh yeah, those sort of name are annoying. It's almost as if the writer hasn't stopped to think about how those around the character would handle such a name.
Karsus the Mad 05-09-07, 06:45 PM	I will say, I prefer a cool real world name than some stupid/unproononcable/ridiculous made up one. Better a Baldric or Ulric than Blitipit or Kruuuyahahxa. :rolleyes: I'm curious how an author would explain a real Earth name, which usually has cultural influence, existing in FR, which supposedly has little to nothing to do with real world cultures (Mulhorand and Unther aside)? "A portal" can only be used so much;) I find it a bit difficult that a culture that has developed uniquely on Faerun would just happen to develop names like Brian, James, Tom, and so forth. An intelligent/reasonable/rationally made up name is more suitable. It's almost as if the writer hasn't stopped to think about how those around the character would handle such a name. I think Faerunian Common is actually the tonguetwist dialect of gibberese. However, that's how names work:P How many real world names can you pronounce (I've been living in Finland for over a year and a half and still can't pronounce most things)? The letters are the same mostly, but the method in which they're pronounced and the rules the language follows is absolutely nothing like english, so it doesn't help applying english linguistics to it. I can't fathom why a non-human race, or even a human race so drastically unrelated to anything we have, would have identical or similar names;) I find it perfectly reasonable that a human would find it difficult or impossible even, to pronounce a racial name that's simply too alien (beholders, illithids, etc). I don't expect a beholder to float around with a name like Uriem, or Arthur, or Ulric (cool name that...I used a Yulrik spelling of it):D
Lord Karsus 05-09-07, 06:50 PM	I'm curious how an author would explain a real Earth name, which usually has cultural influence, existing in FR, which supposedly has little to nothing to do with real world cultures (Mulhorand and Unther aside)? "A portal" can only be used so much;) I find it a bit difficult that a culture that has developed uniquely on Faerun would just happen to develop names like Brian, James, Tom, and so forth. An intelligent/reasonable/rationally made up name is more suitable. -Elminster, who had just returned from a trip to Earth, happened to mention a name to Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9. Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9 had a wife who just happened to go into labor shortly after their meeting. Wanting to "be cool", or something to that effect, Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9 names his child the Earth name. -Or, a Spelljammer Crewman/Planewalker from Earth happened to get stranded somewhere on Faerūn. Said Spelljammer Crewman/Planewalker eventually settled down on Faerūn perminently, and got him/herself a family. Upon the birth of his/her child, said individual names his child an Earth name.
Lady_Mhaor 05-09-07, 06:59 PM	Or they just threw a few dragon bones a picked a name from the letters they formed
Karsus the Mad 05-09-07, 07:03 PM	-Elminster, who had just returned from a trip to Earth, happened to mention a name to Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9. Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9 had a wife who just happened to go into labor shortly after their meeting. Wanting to "be cool", or something to that effect, Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9 names his child the Earth name. You missed a tidbit of my post;) "A portal" can only be used so much And why would a farmer name his kid such? "to be cool" ?:P I had hoped the general mentality of the Realms were slightly higher than the teen players:P I don't see Faerunians, especially Dalelanders, as being so light with the naming of their children. I also don't see the portal excuse being prevalent enough to where an Earth name gets into semi-common circulation. Meh. Not that it really matters of course. I'll just have Richard and George Lantanna go use their steam powered telly now and watch Zhentarim Fun Hour on the Weave Network. There's also the rugby game they have to go to;) Sorry, in a slapstick mood:embarrass -Or, a Spelljammer Crewman/Planewalker from Earth happened to get stranded somewhere on Faerūn. Said Spelljammer Crewman/Planewalker eventually settled down on Faerūn perminently, and got him/herself a family. Upon the birth of his/her child, said individual names his child an Earth name. IS that what happened tho'? :) It certainly works if that's the case.
GothicDan 05-09-07, 07:10 PM	Better a Baldric or Ulric than Blitipit or Kruuuyahahxa. That would only be if at some point the cultures in which the characters emerged at one point had heavy exchange with cultures that utilized French and Germanic languages. I don't think that would represent any place currently in the Realms. I think that names should be as idiosyncratic as possible to the culture in which they are used, linguistically and historically. Linguistically would imply thought being put into how semantics and phonetics had been handled. (Etymologically, for example, looking at how Spanish and French and the like differ from Latin, and so on.)
Lord Karsus 05-09-07, 07:13 PM	You missed a tidbit of my post;) -That I did. But, meh... And why would a farmer name his kid such? "to be cool" ?:P I had hoped the general mentality of the Realms were slightly higher than the teen players:P -How many times do you think Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9 gets to meet people like ELMINSTER! It's similar to the days of old- and still today, to a degree- where meeting your monarch, archbishop, raja, and what have you was a very monumental occasion. Maybe Elminster was talking about his good buddy from Earth, John Lennon. Dalelands Farmer who Produces Wheat #9. having just met Elminster, and, I don't know, maybe trying to get on his good side or something, names his child John, after Elminster's good friend. I also don't see the portal excuse being prevalent enough to where an Earth name gets into semi-common circulation. Meh. Not that it really matters of course. -How many times do you see people with Oriental characters tattooed onto their arms? Of those people, how many do you think actually know what said characters actually say? One person could have met another person who obtained a name in one of those situations I mentioned above, and proceeded to use said name in their own personal lives, not really knowing it's full meaning, or how the name "evolved". IS that what happened tho'? :) -You lost me...:(
The Ubbergeek 05-09-07, 08:15 PM	That would only be if at some point the cultures in which the characters emerged at one point had heavy exchange with cultures that utilized French and Germanic languages. I don't think that would represent any place currently in the Realms. I think that names should be as idiosyncratic as possible to the culture in which they are used, linguistically and historically. Linguistically would imply thought being put into how semantics and phonetics had been handled. (Etymologically, for example, looking at how Spanish and French and the like differ from Latin, and so on.) I think reinviting the wheel just because it is not earth is a bit futile and pedant. It's a game, and as long as your name have the 'feel' of the culture of your character, it's ok. It's not like you HAVE to copy blatantly or use some very common name.
GothicDan 05-09-07, 08:36 PM	Futile, how? That implies that what you're doing does not have an effect. In this case, the effect is the action itself.
DojiHoturi 05-09-07, 09:48 PM	Um, you know that Baldur is the name of a very real Norse god, don't you? And that the names Tomas, Yolanda, and Corinna are all in the Waterdeep:CoS 3rd edition book. And that was just taking a quick glance. All these names are very real names used in today's very real world. So, even the developers have used real world names from history to design the realms, and there is nothing wrong with that. Well unless you personally have something wrong with that, but then do not project your own preferences on the rest of us. The key is to stay in line with the setting. I also think that John is not quite appropriate. But Johann or Joachim (pronounced the germance way, Yo-han and Yo-ah-kim) would be more than appropriate, maybe even spell it phonetically for a twist. Now I might take a different outlook if I was german and playing D&D. But I am not. So I don't. I personally like to make names that use variations of names found in source material and the occasional fantasy novel, but keep in mind, these are also often rooted to the real world. Sometimes, I will straight up steal a name if its obscure enough. Like Ragnar Danneskjold, sounds good for a dwarf, eh? I bet there are not many of you that know where I got it. Good on ya, if you do. Sometimes, I create with various false language dictionaries. There are a few elf languages available on the internet, to include Quenya (the one developed by Tolkein) that you can steal words from to create very interesting names. My current character is named Kelaun'irra, which I created using a Drow name generator which can supposedly translate into 'Messenger of Song and Dance', among other things. So, unless you are playing Hackmaster, do not name you character Bob or Judy. Otherwise just grab somethings a little uncommon that you like the sound of and run with it. 2 pennies, Doji
GothicDan 05-09-07, 09:54 PM	I think it's a little more acceptable for the designers to include some (appropriate) real world names... Merely due to the sheer bulk of NPCs they have to name. But as players, really, all we have to do is concentrate usually on naming one PC at a time. We should make that one count! Also note that Baldur is not the same as Baldur/Balder/Baldr of Norse myth. It's derivative of the city founder's name, Balduran.
Lord_Steve 05-09-07, 10:07 PM	Better, FR11 Dwarves Deep (http://paizo.com/store/brand/forgottenRealms/roleplayingGames/2ndEdition/v5748btpy7mku) has a name list.Like this: kobolds: Kuthil, Khulld Mrym, Olgloth Ryndrinn, Ulag Selgryn, Urlbluk, Vhue goblins: Garag, Ghaur, Illish, Kreeth, Mhaerg, Nethaug, Nnesk, Ulagh, Vuhrund Yay! Thanks!
Karsus the Mad 05-10-07, 01:13 AM	-You lost me...:( I'm talking about novel characters, not PCs:) How the names were introduced in those novels that feature Brian, Jill, John, Claire, Ester, etc *could* make them appropriate. However, merely plopping them in as if they'd always been there doesn't fit. Meh, I agree with Faerer and GD. DojiHoturi also brought up a good point, "The key is to stay in line with the setting." <waits for someone to talk about their Half-orc half drow barbarian named Mr. T. and how it's a such an appropriate name>
Lord Karsus 05-10-07, 09:02 AM	I'm talking about novel characters, not PCs:) How the names were introduced in those novels that feature Brian, Jill, John, Claire, Ester, etc *could* make them appropriate. However, merely plopping them in as if they'd always been there doesn't fit. -Well, that would be something in the character's backstory. Most of the characters I cited before have no backstories (or very little), since they are just minor NPC characters who only have a few appearances.
Karsus the Mad 05-10-07, 01:30 PM	-Well, that would be something in the character's backstory. Most of the characters I cited before have no backstories (or very little), since they are just minor NPC characters who only have a few appearances. That's sad. So very sad. I've just lost a level of respect for any author that doesn't create a backstory for a character created and I've lost ALL respect for any and all authors that use modern real world names without any reason other than they lacked the imagination and understanding of the Realms to create their own. Really, all they had to do was spin some letters around...Pfft...so sad. Sorry LK. Love ya bunches (you know that!), but 3e FR is seriously making me sick...well, FR regardless of rules is making me sick. I think it's time for Eberron, or hopefully a setting that's actually unique:) Later my good friend.
Lord Karsus 05-10-07, 01:38 PM	That's sad. So very sad. I've just lost a level of respect for any author that doesn't create a backstory for a character created and I've lost ALL respect for any and all authors that use modern real world names without any reason other than they lacked the imagination and understanding of the Realms to create their own. Really, all they had to do was spin some letters around... -These are (mostly) minor characters in novels that we are talking about. You are aware of that, right? Pfft...so sad. Sorry LK. Love ya bunches (you know that!), but 3e FR is seriously making me sick...well, FR regardless of rules is making me sick. I think it's time for Eberron, or hopefully a setting that's actually unique:) Later my good friend. -They were all..."born"(?) in 2e.
The Ubbergeek 05-10-07, 01:53 PM	Karsus, you overreact over a very minor detail. Again, I have no problem against using real-world name - provided they are obscure/flavorfull/archaic/rare, or witha twist maybe yes. Eberron is really not the same thing - I disagreed with Gothic Dan, but I guess he had a point - unique for being unique is not the right way. FR own Eberron, anyway. ;)
GothicDan 05-10-07, 02:29 PM	Ubber... When will you let people have their own opinions without judging them as wrong or incorrect? ;)
Lord_Steve 05-10-07, 05:55 PM	I agree with the methods listed by Karsus the Mad......That's how I make my names....Just think of it....How could a name like Michael, Jacob etc. fit into the FR Universe? Those names are clearly Judaic/Christian in origin...and unless I'm mistaken there are no Jews in FR....lol
Lord Karsus 05-10-07, 06:32 PM	...and unless I'm mistaken there are no Jews in FR....lol -We're everywhere. :thumbsup: :)
Lord_Steve 05-10-07, 06:55 PM	*laughs* I mean as in the Characters.....
Lord Karsus 05-10-07, 07:02 PM	*laughs* I mean as in the Characters..... -Yes, yes, some of us sure are characters, lemme tell you...:D
Lord_Steve 05-10-07, 07:32 PM	-Yes, yes, some of us sure are characters, lemme tell you...:D Now you're just picking on me T-T
Lord Karsus 05-10-07, 08:12 PM	-:P
Lord_Steve 05-10-07, 09:29 PM	Evil!
Aysun 05-10-07, 11:33 PM	I have no problem with name sounding earth-like. I mean there are some name in Fantasy that I can't even pronouce, so I usually alter the names around. Or if I'm really desperate for a name First I'll try to have a theme built around the names and In second Ancient Greek names are a real treasure for me and sometimes they can be a bit obvious. I once had a male drow named Deimos For what i mean with themed names look at the name i'm using Aysun, she had a twin brother named Sorin and a younger brother named Sidus. Aysun = Moon Sorin = Sun Sidus = Star And I must admit that having a character with a named meaning Moon is RA Salvatore's fault. When I first read Stream of Silver....I tought Artemis was a girl I had to read it twice just to make sure i read it right and I was like..."he got a girl's name?" mind you i'm a french canadian (not from quebec) and back then reading english book was forced down our throats. oh and here is a variant of Micheal, Mikel ( it's short, sweet and pleasant to look at )
Burningspear 05-10-07, 11:55 PM	I made up names, as easy as butter: Vhaedos, a Untherite Cleric of Assuran/ Hoar type of guy, fat, bald and strong (turk strongman type) Sehlvar Uhl, cohort of the next named personality. Ahlear Marhaun, Cleric/ Assassin human (Bhaal) from Harrowdale, ingame age 42, big moustage, balding forhead and semi long hair at the back, walks/ talks a like a Hussar, Vitros Marhaun, venerable father (92 y/o) of Ahlear, but keen as F... :tie:. Tim"E, pronounced as THiemae, child of "time", a semi npc with a plot hook attached, young kid. Mal'Vius Zhenia Bodrisahr, fat "indian" cleric type guy used in Eberron campaign. Zhenia is actually a good friend of mines real earth name , he is Ukranian. Mariya Dhavaeus, female Garagos worshiping fighter/ cleric, first name derived from/ after now deceased girl friend who left me with a deep impression. Maya. Utu Manahu, half giant type wizard :), names derived from the god Utu of Assyrian/ Babylonians/ Unther and Hamanu from Dark Sun. Tjahzi, from a comic nicked, and used for a Dark Sun fighter mage zulu looking type shadow mage. and loads more..., i have an infinite thirst for creating names and characters, maybe i should write :)
Karsus the Mad 05-11-07, 10:10 AM	-These are (mostly) minor characters in novels that we are talking about. You are aware of that, right? Actually, nope:P I feel dumb now. Karsus, you overreact over a very minor detail. Perhaps, but I care about minor details like that. Not the part about players choosing RL names and such, but authors and designers (who are exceptionally skilled and imaginative people) doing that. Just rubs me akwardly I suppose. Also, the half dozen or so lime tequilas I had previously prolly added several levels of hyped up annoyance to my overreaction;) You should see me overact over major details:D Entertainment guaranteed. FR own Eberron, anyway. For now:incog: Haven't actually played it so can't say one way or another. Tho' I do think if I ever get back into gaming I'll try it out. Keep FR to a more academic persuit.
Lord Karsus 05-11-07, 10:24 AM	Actually, nope:P I feel dumb now. -See, I know you. I figured we weren't on the same page. -Although, something like that would make a cool sourcebook- The NPCs of the Realms. Just a big ol' book filled with the stats and brief histories of various NPCs who appeared in novels, sourcebooks, articles, Ed's replies, and maybe some "new" people.
GothicDan 05-11-07, 10:33 AM	Sort of like the old Heroes and Villains Lorebooks?
The Ubbergeek 05-11-07, 12:45 PM	For now:incog: Haven't actually played it so can't say one way or another. Tho' I do think if I ever get back into gaming I'll try it out. Keep FR to a more academic persuit. Always will. Eberron is just an Exalted-like upstart, a divergent campaign setting who will never be as D&D as Mystara and teh Big Three. ;)
Lord Karsus 05-11-07, 01:56 PM	Sort of like the old Heroes and Villains Lorebooks? -Yes, but instead, included would be...well, everyone! Not only would people like Drizzt Do'Urden and Elminster appear, but so would such characters as Cormyrian Farmer with Pitchfork #2, Dūd Onahorz, and other less known characters. Something like that would, I think, certainly breath even more life into the setting.
Straploknight 05-11-07, 02:24 PM	How bout Kobold and Goblin names???? Easy, drink lots of beer, follow it with lots of beens and a heaping pile of saurkruat, then record the sounds that follow