Chargen, short for character generator, is a tool used by tabletop role-playing game (RPG) enthusiasts to create unique characters for their games. These tools can be digital or physical and offer players a way to customize their characters' stats, abilities, and overall appearance. While Chargen has been a reliable choice for many RPG players, there are several alternatives and competitors in the market that offer similar or even better features. In this article, we will explore the top 10 Chargen alternatives and competitors in 2024, highlighting their key features, usability, and suitability for different use cases.

1. Hero Lab

Hero Lab is a popular digital Chargen tool that offers a comprehensive set of features for creating and managing characters for various RPGs. It provides a user-friendly interface with a wide range of customization options for abilities, equipment, and spells. Hero Lab also includes features like automatic calculations, error checking, and support for multiple systems. Additionally, it offers add-ons for specific RPGs, allowing users to tailor the tool to their specific needs.

2. Fantasy Grounds

Fantasy Grounds is a virtual tabletop RPG platform that includes a Chargen tool as part of its suite of features. It offers a user-friendly interface that allows users to create and manage their characters and connect with other players online. Fantasy Grounds supports a wide range of RPG systems, including Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and Savage Worlds. It also includes features like dynamic lighting, fog of war, and support for 3D terrain.

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3. Roll20

Roll20 is another virtual tabletop RPG platform that offers a Chargen tool as part of its suite of features. It provides a simple and intuitive interface that allows users to create and manage their characters, connect with other players online, and roll virtual dice. Roll20 offers support for a wide range of RPG systems and includes features like dynamic lighting, fog of war, and customizable character sheets.

4. D&D Beyond

D&D Beyond is a digital toolset specifically designed for Dungeons & Dragons players. It offers a comprehensive Chargen tool that allows users to create and manage their characters, as well as access a library of official rules and content. D&D Beyond includes features like automatic calculations, error checking, and integration with other digital tools like virtual tabletops.

5. PCGen

PCGen is a free and open-source Chargen tool that supports a wide range of RPG systems. It provides a simple and intuitive interface that allows users to create and manage their characters' stats, abilities, and equipment. PCGen also includes features like automatic calculations and error checking, as well as support for custom content creation.

6. GURPS Character Assistant

GURPS Character Assistant is a Chargen tool specifically designed for Steve Jackson Games' Generic Universal RolePlaying System (GURPS). It offers a comprehensive set of features for creating and managing GURPS characters, including support for advanced rules and abilities. GURPS Character Assistant also includes features like automatic calculations, error checking, and content customization.

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7. Realm Works

Realm Works is a virtual tabletop RPG platform that includes a Chargen tool as part of its suite of features. It provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to create and manage characters, connect with other players online, and manage campaign content. Realm Works supports a wide range of RPG systems and includes features like dynamic maps, player journals, and customizable character sheets.

8. The Only Sheet+

The Only Sheet+ is a digital Chargen tool that provides a comprehensive set of features for creating and managing characters for various RPGs. It includes support for multiple systems and provides a simple and intuitive interface that allows users to customize their characters' stats, abilities, and equipment. The Only Sheet+ also includes features like automatic calculations, error checking, and customization options.

9. World Anvil

World Anvil is a virtual tabletop RPG platform that includes a Chargen tool as part of its suite of features. It provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to create and manage their characters, connect with other players online, and manage campaign content. World Anvil supports a wide range of RPG systems and includes features like customizable character sheets, campaign management tools, and interactive maps.

10. Myth-Weavers

Myth-Weavers is a free and community-driven Chargen tool that offers support for various RPG systems. It provides a simple and intuitive interface that allows users to create and manage their characters' stats, abilities, and equipment. Myth-Weavers also includes features like automatic calculations, error checking, and content customization options.

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In conclusion, while Chargen has been a reliable choice for creating and managing characters for various RPGs, there are several alternatives and competitors available in 2024 that offer similar or even better features. Whether you prefer the comprehensive tools and industry-standard capabilities of Hero Lab or D&D Beyond, the virtual tabletop experience of Fantasy Grounds or Roll20, or the customization options of PCGen or The Only Sheet+, there is a Chargen tool that suits your needs. Consider the key features, usability, and suitability when choosing a Chargen alternative that best fits your requirements, and explore these top competitors to enhance your RPG experience in 2024.