You start by choosing from one of three characters: Mogrim, the requisite massive bruiser who gets through the game on brute strength alone; Allister, a battlemage, who employs physical and mystical attacks and defenses with equal skill; and Serin, the most interesting of the three, who is a blind assassin with incredible speed and the ability to wield dual weapons.
You're not alone in your quest. Each character comes with a choice of two, autonomous NPC companions, and you'll meet other friendlies during the adventure; some are battling bruisers, some are mages, some are healers, and one is a hawk. While you can only have one helper at your side at a time, you can dynamically summon any of them at any time, which adds a strategic twist to the action.
As the game progresses, you'll eventually mold a unique champion based on your habits and choices, and which attributes and abilities you power-up. Eventually Legendary classes become available, based upon your play style and character. For instance, Serin can advance to become a Ranger or a Blademaster, and then move on to be a Sniper, a Ninja, or another lofty class.