Writing "Advice" - There's Such a Thing as Too Many Characters

This is one that I don't usually see as a problem, but I think it's worth it to mention. Creating characters is often the most fun part of writing and I think we can all agree with that to a certain extent. As much as it is to create characters, there is a limit on how many is good for a single story main cast. Having too many main characters becomes an issue when the audience gets the feeling that they are supposed to care about every character, but the character pool is bloated. It's why so many main cast characters are around three or four main characters as well as supporting cast.105Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUTNnBO5tdf

Harry Potter and Percy Jackson have three main characters who the books follow and give you reasons to care about while still having supporting cast members who expand the roster without making it feel bloated and allowing you to get attached to characters. The reason the cast doesn't feel bloated is due to the fact that, while we do get to learn about the other characters and see who they are, the story primarily follows the main three.105Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlUaiyETkmF

I can't think of a specific work that makes me think immediately of a bloated cast but I have heard it as a criticism of Game of Thrones. I have no interest in the series personally, never really my thing even though I do enjoy some grimdark from time to time, but I do understand. There are a lot of characters that you are meant to care about and understand their desires and motives for the things they do and why they're doing what they are. To some people, this isn't an issue because we all have our favorite cast of characters anyway, but for others this can be an issue as they feel unable to keep track. A big cast of characters isn't a bad thing in and of itself, but it might be slightly daunting to some readers.105Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9uZUQCcfgA

Feel free to make as many characters as you heart desires, but make sure to allow more focus on a main cast and create a supporting cast so that the book doesn't feel bloated from all the characters. It's basically you picking out your favorites while still making sure the others get some time as well just so they're not there for pointless filler. 105Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiK4jlBq9rH

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