In the world of GURPS, or Generic Universal RolePlaying System, character depth is created not just through powers, abilities, or wealth, but also through the flaws that make each persona more human and interesting. One of the most popular and often humorous disadvantages is the Odious Personal Habit or OPH. This trait isn’t just a way to earn extra character points it becomes a storytelling tool that shapes how a character interacts with the world and how others perceive them. Whether used for roleplay, narrative tension, or comic relief, an Odious Personal Habit in GURPS can transform a flat character into a memorable one.
What Is Odious Personal Habit in GURPS?
Core Concept
Odious Personal Habit (OPH) is a disadvantage in GURPS that reflects an annoying or socially unacceptable behavior that makes the character unpleasant to be around. The nature of this habit can vary widely depending on the setting and tone of the campaign, from loud chewing to more extreme behaviors like chronic lying or offensive body odor. The goal is not necessarily to sabotage the character, but to provide narrative flavor and mechanical balance.
Mechanics of OPH
Each OPH in GURPS has a point value, generally ranging from -5 to -15 character points. The value depends on how socially damaging or disruptive the habit is within the setting. The more offensive or frequent the habit, the higher the point value. The points gained from taking this disadvantage can then be spent elsewhere on useful traits, skills, or attributes.
Examples of Odious Personal Habits
Common In-Game OPHs
- Interrupts People Constantly(-5 points): Annoying, but not harmful. Causes tension during conversations.
- Never Bathes(-10 points): Socially repulsive, creates distance from NPCs and party members.
- Talks About Themselves Endlessly(-5 points): Grating in social settings, especially in diplomacy or negotiations.
- Uses Foul Language in Every Sentence(-10 points): May offend others, especially in formal settings.
- Eats With Mouth Open(-5 points): Harmless but considered gross or rude by most.
- Lies Compulsively(-15 points): Can cause distrust among allies, dangerous in strategic situations.
Creative or Campaign-Specific OPHs
Creative GMs and players may tailor OPHs to suit the tone of their campaigns. In a post-apocalyptic setting, an OPH could be something like hoards useless junk or talks to inanimate objects. In a sci-fi game, perhaps a character insists on constantly quoting outdated Earth media. Fantasy campaigns may feature characters with superstitions that annoy or confuse others.
Why Choose an Odious Personal Habit?
Roleplaying Opportunities
OPHs can inspire fun and engaging roleplay moments. A character with an OPH is easier to define and act out, especially for new players who are still building confidence in their roleplaying style. These habits give the player a consistent quirk to lean on and may even spark humorous or dramatic scenes.
Party Dynamics
Sometimes, a character’s OPH can cause friction within the group on purpose. This adds interpersonal tension, especially in games where character relationships are central to the story. These dynamics can lead to growth, conflict resolution, or just comic relief, depending on how the party handles it.
Character Depth and Realism
In real life, people have flaws and odd behaviors. Including OPHs in a character design reflects this realism and avoids overly perfect characters. It makes a character feel more genuine and textured, especially when combined with backstory and motivation.
Balancing OPHs for Gameplay
Using OPHs Without Disrupting the Game
It’s important that the chosen OPH fits the campaign tone and doesn’t ruin the experience for other players. A good OPH should affect the character and their interactions but shouldn’t be so disruptive that it derails sessions. For example, ‘openly racist in a diverse party’ might cause unnecessary discomfort. The group should agree on limits to keep things fun for everyone.
GM’s Role in Managing OPHs
The Game Master (GM) can use OPHs to build out scenes or challenges. An NPC may refuse to cooperate with a character who smells bad or talks rudely. Conversely, OPHs can be sources of comic moments or allow the GM to tailor encounters that test the character’s social flaws. With balance, OPHs become more than just background flavor they become story tools.
Scaling the Impact
Not all OPHs have to be equally intense in every scene. A character who swears constantly might learn to tone it down in formal situations, or a compulsive liar might try to improve through roleplay. Growth can be rewarded or reflected in changes to character sheets during campaign progression.
Turning a Weakness Into Strength
Character Growth Arcs
One of the most satisfying aspects of incorporating an Odious Personal Habit into gameplay is the potential for growth. A character might realize their behavior is pushing others away and seek to change. This provides emotional payoff and can enrich campaign narratives significantly. Whether it’s a personal vow to change or a moment of reckoning brought by another party member, transformation through flaw is a powerful storytelling device.
Leveraging the OPH
Sometimes, OPHs can become unexpectedly useful. A habit seen as negative in one context could work to the party’s advantage elsewhere. A character who never stops talking might distract guards long enough for a teammate to slip by. Someone with a crude sense of humor might unintentionally intimidate a villain. Smart players can turn flaws into tools when the moment is right.
Tips for Choosing the Right OPH
Know the Campaign Tone
If the campaign is dark and serious, avoid silly OPHs that break immersion. If the tone is lighthearted or comedic, feel free to go wild. Align the habit with the game’s world so that it enhances rather than clashes with the atmosphere.
Match the Character’s Personality
Choose an OPH that fits the character’s backstory and personality. A rogue raised in the streets might belch loudly after every meal, while a noble might interrupt others out of arrogance. This alignment makes the OPH feel natural and consistent.
Keep It Manageable
Pick an OPH that you, as a player, can remember to roleplay consistently. It should be noticeable enough to matter but not so overwhelming that it dominates every scene. Balance is key for both fun and playability.
Odious Personal Habits in GURPS are more than just a way to gain extra character points they are valuable storytelling tools that enhance realism, depth, and drama in the game. They allow players to explore imperfection in a fun and structured way while giving GMs opportunities to challenge and engage their characters. With thoughtful selection and cooperative gameplay, an OPH can become one of the most memorable aspects of any roleplaying session. Whether used for humor, conflict, or emotional growth, these habits ensure that every hero is just a little bit human underneath their stats and skills.