Would you fellow role players explain the appeal of Npc's to me? I traditionally never use them because it's hardwired into my brain to attach myself to my own creations. Something about customization from the ground floor too. So what do you guys get out of them?
Variety - e.g. I used Spugnoir for the Moathouse, Meleny til the end of Temple Level 1, then Serena for a while (before she bought it) and now I'm trying out Rufus and Burne. I like the opportunity to try out various classes temporarily that I haven't got in the party (e.g. Druid, single-class Rogue, Wizard). Some of their equipment is quite nice too (such as Burne's Chime of Opening). If only Serena's Ring of Invisibility worked! But I don't think there's anything they give that you can't replicate with your own creations.