I've seen a lot of advice on how to handle problem players, but none that really address this specific one. Please bear with me, and thank you in advance for any advice you could offer.
I have a player who plays the same basic personality in all his characters. The class, stats, race, even game systems differ, but his characters are as motivated as a mopey, slacker late-teen.
The character will pursue minor mysteries if forced to by the group, but will not take any plot hook more complex than going down to a tavern and getting smashed. Anything else elicits a steady stream of complaint, in character, mind you,about the effort involved in every task and challenge. Neither glory, riches, nor personal achievement motivates these characters. Doesn't matter if he's an elf bard with a kingdom thrust suddenly upon him in Pathfinder, or if he's a Werecat in the New World of Darkness.
His role-playing skills are phenomenal- the player has little resemblance to the slacker archetype, though I would also not classify him as a type-A personality. He's in his thirties, has held a steady job for years, has a good social life and a reasonable worldview, tends to be upbeat and enthusiastic.
His characters have made me drop out of campaigns where I was another player in the group, and has made me seriously consider banning him from games where I GM. Outside of gaming, I consider him a good friend. At the table, I want to do him bodily harm by the end of a gaming session.
