The dreaded O word [Optimization]

[Jayabalard]

It's like "ninja" in MMORPGs, they say you are a "ninja" when you steal loot. Why don't they call it "thief"?

I'm pretty sure the origin of the term Ninja (as inL: ninjaloot) comes from MMO's where loot wasn't locked to the group that killed it, especially when the mobs weren't in instances. So your group could kill Mob x, and some random guy could swoop in and loot it quickly and vanish (like a ninja).

I personally can't help but let my choice of mechanics influence my character's concept, and it's therefore useful to optimize towards not just a single mechanical goal, but towards a mix of mechanic competence and flavour. By choosing the optimal mix of traits that support the character concept, both goals can be satisfied and we get a well rounded character.

There are a fair amount of people who seem to be afraid to admit to this (that is: the fact that they allow their concept to be influenced by the mechanics).