Each PC of level 1-5 has a Background chosen as part of character creation. Backgrounds represent the backstory, culture, race and/or bloodline, childhood, and/or young adulthood of the character prior to the start of their adventuring career. As such, they cannot generally be changed once the game has started. Upon reaching level 6, however, the Background is replaced with a Destiny. At this point in a character's career, where they came from is now much less important than where it is they are going.

Each Background consists of a set of base Stat Track modifiers, effect text, and an exploration Action. Stat Track modifiers apply to all three scenario types. The effect text consists of various bonuses (and occasionally penalties) that may apply to one or more scenario types. The Action entry ensures that a player is always able to attempt to make progress against an Obstacle regardless of Gear or cards in hand.