Why Roleplay a Stereotype?

I've mentioned before that stereotypes are a good way to improve your gaming, and I wanted to expand a little on my position. There's nothing wrong with wanting your character to be unique, but a little stereotyping goes a long way into helping you get into your character's head.

The best example I have are dwarves. The Lord of the Rings films only prove this point: Gimli is a giant stereotype. He drinks ale by the gallon, he fights with an axe, he speaks with a Scottish accent. He is the quintessential dwarf. And that's why, if your dwarf acts in a similar manner, the other players in your party will immediately accept and react to him as a dwarf. Since these things have come to represent dwarves in our minds, it actually helps establish your character as a dwarf to the other players.

The easiest way to do this with nearly every character concept is to cultivate an accent. Even if you only lower or raise the pitch of your voice, it will be easier for other players to see that you are in character, or out of it. There are other ways you can incorporate stereotypes into characters, and as long as you use them appropriately, they can really improve your roleplaying.

One of the Guys: How to Blend In

One of the largest problems with being a girl gamer, is, well... being a girl gamer. In a hobby that's dominated with men, it's often more than a little uncomfortable to be the only female in the room. Especially since the stereotype that gamers are socially inept is occasionally true.

If you're tired of the guys at your table trying to stare down your shirt every time you walk by, try a little subtlety. First, don't wear low-cut shirts. I know, it's a terrible crime to cover up your gorgeous pair, but it's the best way to keep everyone from staring at them. If you're really interested in becoming a little more intimate with someone in your gaming group, invite them on a date so you'll really get a chance to dress up. There's no need to suffer through the uncomfortable stares at the gaming table to attract only one pair of eyes.

Secondly, and this one is nearly as hard, be flexible and don't let much shock you. The guys in your group will use your squeamishness against you if they can, so it's best to cultivate a thick skin fast. The less you react, the less they'll go overboard. Being a girl gamer can be hard, but it's usually worth it in the long run. If you can convince the boys that you're not going to faint at the mention of blood and guts, you're good to go.

Character Ideas: Fighters

Fighters are one of the easiest classes to start out with (in terms of learning game mechanisms), although they get more complicated as your character levels. There are plenty of starting points for fighter of the female persuasion, so feel free to take some of these ideas and run with them.

Bandit Leader
Swordsmith
Soldier
Palace Guard
Amazon (fun with loincloths)
Barbarian Queen
Orphan Gang Leader
Wandering Swordsman
Pitfighter