Rules reference
Character creation in Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition
Creation steps and common decision points. Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition is a horror investigation roleplaying game based on H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos. Players take on the roles of Investigators, ordinary people who uncover cosmic horrors beyond human comprehension. As you investigate mysteries, your character's Sanity slowly erodes, skills improve through use, and the line between reality and madness blurs.
Key points
Use this as a checklist, then build your character in RPG Stack.
Key facts
- Percentile skill system: Roll d100, succeed if equal to or below skill rating
- 8 Characteristics: STR, CON, POW, DEX, APP, SIZ, INT, EDU (plus Luck)
- Occupation system: Each occupation grants skill bonuses and Credit Rating range
- Sanity mechanics: Starts at POW, maximum reduced by Cthulhu Mythos exposure
- Skill improvement: Mark skills during play, improve after sessions
- Luck: Spend after a roll, point for point, to turn a failure into a success; can't be used on Sanity, damage, Luck rolls, or pushed rolls
Creation order (from system.json)
- Choose Occupation
- Roll 3d6×5 for STR, CON, POW, DEX, APP (range 15-90). Roll (2d6+6)×5 for SIZ, INT, EDU (range 40-90).
- Calculate Derived Stats: HP, MP, Sanity, Build, Magic Points
- Distribute Skill Points based on Occupation
- Choose Personal Details and Background
- Select Equipment and Spells
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
- 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.
Build guides for Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition