The charm of Toby Fox’s Undertale lies not just in its quirky dialogue and deep, philosophical narrative, but in the vast, imaginative world of the Underground that invites players to contribute their own ideas. This creative urge has birthed a massive community focused on Undertale OCs (Original Characters). Whether you are a fan of roleplaying, fan fiction, or simply enjoy illustrating unique monster designs, crafting an original character is a rite of passage for many in the fandom. By creating a character that fits within the game's established lore, you allow yourself to explore new perspectives, hidden regions of the Underground, and unique interactions with beloved canonical characters like Sans, Papyrus, or Alphys.
Understanding the Core of Undertale OCs
Creating Undertale OCs is more than just drawing a monster and giving it a name; it is about finding a place for them within the thematic ecosystem of the game. The game emphasizes themes of determination, morality, and the relationship between humans and monsters. Your character should ideally reflect some aspect of these themes to feel truly at home in the Underground.
When designing your character, consider the following fundamental aspects:
- Species and Biology: Are they a skeleton, a ghost, a slime monster, or perhaps an entirely new breed of creature?
- Determination Levels: Does your character possess Determination, or are they a standard monster whose soul is bound by magic?
- Thematic Connection: Does your character interact with the Barrier, the Royal Guard, or the research facilities?
- Design Aesthetic: Use colors and shapes that align with the 8-bit or pixel art style of the game to keep the visual identity authentic.
💡 Note: Ensure your character’s backstory doesn't accidentally contradict established canon events like the Great War or the fall of the first human, unless you are creating an Alternate Universe (AU) variant.
Design Tips for Your Original Characters
If you want your Undertale OCs to stand out while maintaining the "vibe" of the game, simplicity is often your best friend. The most iconic characters in Undertale rely on strong silhouettes and distinct color palettes. You don't need an overly complex design to make an impact; in fact, minimalist designs often translate better into the game's signature pixel art style.
| Feature | Design Advice | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Color Palette | Use 3-4 primary colors | Maintains clarity and consistency |
| Shape Language | Use rounded or jagged edges | Suggests personality (kind vs. hostile) |
| Outfit | Keep accessories to a minimum | Ensures the character is easily recognizable |
Beyond the visual appeal, think about their "battle mechanics." Part of the joy of creating these characters is imagining how a player would encounter them in a bullet hell sequence. What kind of patterns would their attacks make? Do they use blue magic, orange magic, or something entirely new? This adds a layer of depth that makes your Undertale OCs feel like they could actually appear in the game.
Integrating OCs into Alternate Universes (AUs)
Many creators find that their Undertale OCs thrive best in AUs. Alternate Universes allow you to bend the rules of the original narrative. Whether your character exists in a post-pacifist world, a corrupted timeline, or a version where monsters conquered the surface, the possibilities are endless. Using an AU gives you the creative freedom to ignore restrictive canonical timelines while still honoring the spirit of the original game.
To integrate your character effectively, ask yourself these questions:
- What is their role in this timeline? (e.g., Shopkeeper, Royal Scientist, or wandering traveler)
- How have they been affected by the human's presence in the Underground?
- Do they know about Save/Load mechanics, or are they oblivious to the shifting timelines?
⚠️ Note: Always credit the original game creator when posting art or stories about your characters, especially if you are using assets directly inspired by the game.
The Social Side of Character Creation
Sharing your Undertale OCs with the community is a great way to improve your writing and art skills. Platforms like Tumblr, Twitter, and dedicated Discord servers are hubs for fans to exchange ideas, participate in "Art Trades," and engage in roleplay. When you share your work, don’t be afraid of feedback; constructive criticism can help you refine the backstory and personality of your character, making them feel more dynamic and realistic.
Additionally, participating in "OC challenges" can provide great inspiration. These challenges often set specific prompts, such as "Draw your character in a snowy environment" or "Write a short scene where your character meets Sans for the first time." These prompts are excellent for breaking through creative blocks and helping you find the "voice" of your creation.
Final Thoughts on Your Creative Journey
At the end of the day, your Undertale OCs are a reflection of your own creativity and your personal connection to the game. There is no right or wrong way to build a character, as long as you are having fun with the process. Whether your character is a comedic relief NPC, a tragic hero fighting against the odds, or a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows of Waterfall, they contribute to the longevity and vibrancy of the fandom. Keep iterating on your designs, keep writing their stories, and continue to explore the depths of the Underground. The beauty of this community is that it is constantly evolving, and your unique character is a piece of that ongoing, magical puzzle.