Give Your NPCs Depth: Crafting Authentic Elturian Names for Your Avernus Campaign
When running a tabletop RPG campaign like Descent Into Avernus, the details matter. Immersing your players in the world means creating a believable setting, and that includes the NPCs they encounter. One often-overlooked but crucial aspect is the names of these characters. This article focuses on providing you with a resource for generating unique and flavorful Elturian names, enriching your campaign and bringing the world of Elturel to life.
The Importance of Distinct Naming Conventions
In Descent Into Avernus, Elturians are people with a rich history and culture, now thrust into the chaos of Avernus. Generic names can flatten their identity. Giving them a distinctive naming convention adds depth and helps players connect with them on a more profound level. It subtly communicates their origins and contributes to the overall atmosphere of your game.
Drawing Inspiration from Limburgish Names
To give Elturians a unique flavor, draw inspiration from Limburgish names. Limburgish is a regional language spoken in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. These names provide a foundation for creating authentic-sounding Elturian names. It's a simple technique that can add significant value to your game.
A Comprehensive List of Elturian Names
To help you populate your Descent Into Avernus campaign with memorable characters, here is a curated list of Elturian names, blending Limburgish influences with a touch of fantasy:
Male Names:
- Baer
- Lambaer
- Servaos
- Frenske
- Jan
- Antoon
- Edmao
- Jehan
- Jón
- Nöl
- Sjang
- Alfons
- Mao
- Pitt
- Lau
- Adriaan
- Hoebaer
- Wöllem
- Tuur
- Dulf
- Sjarel
- Ambroos
- Albaer
- Lor
- Alda
- Norbaer
- Braam
- Broen
- Sjra
- Remao
- Nölke
- Pitter
- Laurens
- Aldegonda
- Frens
- Maan
- Klaos
- Reneer
- Rutger
- Artur
Female Names:
- Nora
- Betje
- Lucia
- Thei
- Mien
- Treis
- Margreet
- Justine
- Vera
- Aleena
- Gabreel
- Ina
- Noortje
- Elisabeth
- Mina
- Steena
- Margriet
- Veerke
- Katja
- Luus
- Eleonora
- Wilhelmina
- Mathilde
- Kerstina
- Amalia
- Theresia
- Nes
- Christine
- Theodoor
- Edelgard
- Veer
- Gallia
- Adele
- Albina
- Franziska
- Hanne
- Heidrun
- Kathrin
- Katinka
- Kornelia
Last Names:
- Baert
- Wynia
- Alkema
- Laanen
- Gallas
- Ry
- Griffel
- Sprik
- Haren
- Sturms
- Heeg
- Pohle
- Koetje
- Kraai
- Ramaek
- Linden
- Mentink
- Loden
- Mont
- Minten
- Maas
- Ribbens
- Rood
- Ryken
- Moll
- Krol
- Taffe
- Langstraat
- Maat
- Terpening
- Triest
- Kaas
- Devaal
- Ulin
- Dol
- Vaas
- Boeve
- Warmoth
- Voort
- Zeedyk
Tips for Using the List Effectively
- Mix and Match: Don't be afraid to combine first and last names in unique ways to create even more variety.
- Consider the NPC's Role: A prominent character might deserve a more distinctive or meaningful name.
- Improvise: Use the list as a springboard and modify the names to fit your creative vision.
Random Name Generation Techniques
While having a list is helpful, consider these methods for quickly generating names during your game:
- Dice Rolling: Assign a number to each row in the list and roll dice to determine the first and last name. A combination of a d4 and a d10 can achieve this.
- Rollable Tables on VTTs: Virtual Tabletop platforms like Roll20 allow you to create rollable tables with the names. By using macros you can combine these tables to quickly generate full names.
- Online Generators: Utilize the Random Name Generator at Behind the Name, experimenting with different cultural influences to find the perfect fit.
Additional Resources for RPG Name Ideas
- Fantasy Names: Explore various fantasy name generators and lists to broaden your options for different races and cultures within your game.
- Genre-Specific Names: Delve into name lists tailored to different genres, such as sci-fi or historical settings, to add authenticity to your characters.
- Legendary Names: Research names of legendary figures from mythology and folklore for inspiration when creating exceptionally important or powerful NPCs.
By incorporating these Elturian names and techniques into your Descent Into Avernus campaign, you'll add a layer of depth and immersion that will resonate with your players, making the world feel more alive and believable. Remember to explore the Avernus Remix for more tips on enhancing your campaign.
