Applying a template to a PC

[The Sideromancer]

If I was interested in having a group of monsters with a template that could be spread (e.g. lycanthropy), how would I go about giving a PC said template? I don't think an NPC rebuild is the best option, especially since they would still be a PC at least some of the time. Am I just overthinking this and should just add the abilities?

[Ravingdork]

Dunno. I assume you either just make the more directly to the PC's stats, turn the PC into an NPC with NPC stats, or look for the rules that tell you how to apply that template to PC stats (if any).

[Hiruma Kai]

As far as I know there are no rules for applying a template to PCs. On the other hand, the Polymorph spell rules recently got released in AA2 and you might look at that for inspiration.

You're probably overthinking it. Throw some traits/abilities on, perhaps remove some others if that makes sense, and maybe move some +2 and -2 stats around.

As long as everybody in the group is on board with it, shouldn't be a problem.

[Hazrond]

or alternatively, twist the stats around a little and turn the template into a Theme and then have your players make characters normally using the special "Theme"