On character creation

As previously mentioned, there are five races available for PCs. See post "New edition, new rules" for details on racial ability score modifiers. I will allow any class for which you have documentation (D&D 4E book or class preview document from D&D Insider). Player characters will start at level 11; yes, this means you will choose your paragon path immediately.

Ability scores are generated by 22-point buy, per "Customizing Scores," p. 17 of the PHB.

Each character may choose up to four backgrounds, per the PHB2: one each from the Birth, Geography, Society, and Occupation categories. Optionally, you may substitute a Racial background for your Birth background. The "On Another Plane" Birth background is disallowed. Overlapping skill bonuses from multiple backgrounds stack. Backgrounds from other sources may be substituted at my discretion.

In terms of equipment, each character may choose one magic item, weapon, or armor up to level 5. Each character will also start with 50 platinum pieces (equivalent to 5,000 gp).