In a game with 9 million subscribers one may think it is impossible to stand out from the crowd or to be recognized for some unique talent, whether for epic gear, a unique look, or even the most memorable, and often overlooked - personality! World of Warcraft may be a virtual game but it's principle on becoming well liked and famous are the same as those in real life; when we combine a unique look through gear/clothing/avatar, a catchy, easy to remember name (Grutinkaol is an example of a bad one), and a playstyle/outrageous event (Leeroy Jenkins moment) you are sure to become an infamous WoW player.
The first step to creating a truly memorable Warcraft character is deciding on a name and avatar look. This should never be overlooked as people judge characters the same as people (by first impressions and looks). A good example of how a simple unique character can be remembered is the case of a player creating "Chuck Norris". The similarity was hilarious and led to the viral spread of his virtualtoon . Creating a unique name is a bit harder as many of the great names will already be taken at this point, but don't rely on a name generator to choose your destiny. If you need some inspiration I suggest using a name generator to get your creative juices flowing, but do NOT choose a generated name unless you want to be generic (or you get lucky and find a cool name).
You have decided to make a troll and name him "CtrlAltDelete" for this example; granted many games won't let you use such names but you never know unless you try it out. Usually a good way to get around name filters is to add letters or take away letters and making it still sound the same, i.e.ContrlAltDeleet, ControlAltDlte , or other variations. As far as looks your troll should have unique features (can't be completely unique of course but go the path less traveled); he/she should have the avatar of one you don't normally see. Perhaps using the ugliest face with scars and a bright color skin. Getting the "WOW" (pun intended ;p ) affect when someone sees your avatar for the first time will help ensure you are remembered. If your troll is decked out in weird looking gear (doesn't have to be the best functional wise), i.e. neon gear, or odd looking weapons, chances are people will associate yourself with uniqueness.
Now that you look the part of CtrlAltDelete you must PLAY the part! This is extremely important; a president must act "presidential" and so a "insert your persona" must act a certain way. If you are playing the Elite troll in pvp then you must talk trash to your opponents telling them to reference your name when they think about fighting you (ControlAltDelete ) will close program. Or, you can take the friendly route and be the flamboyant troll everyone loves and respects. Whatever your persona is you have to emphasize it times 100. No celebrity is famous without having extremely tough bias associated with them. SimonCowell from American Idol is a harsh judge, while Britney Spears is the young train wreck. People love to categorize and pigeon hole people. If your troll runs around and you act sad or rude how can you possibly be seen as a flamboyant troll? If SimonCowell became friendly and praised everyone his mystique would wear off. Be the Simon Cowell or Richard Simmons of your virtual world.
With a name, look, and persona mapped out, it's time to take part in a memorable event. This is best shown when a player by the name of Leeroy Jenkins yelled out "Leeroy Jenkins" (great self advertising) and ruined a raid for his guild by charging the npcs. Don't re-invent the wheel but don't also yell out "ControlAltDelte ". It just doesn't have the same effect twice. Perhaps you could hold a flamboyant troll get together or create a set of moves/dance over your dead victims body. To be flamboyant we will need to go the extra distance. Be extreme, be flamboyant, and realize it's all in the name of role playing your World of Warcraft toon.
You have a catchy name, a unique look, a funny personality, and just held a giant troll gathering in-game. With all the in-game aspects of your infamy covered it's time to head to out-of-game methods to reach new fans. This can be done by going to forums and uploading an avatar from your flamboyant troll and making posts that are extremely relevant yet with your personality attached. After making posts people will know you as the flamboyant troll that is funny and well-known. Now you can capitalize on this by creating a world of warcraft signature through wowsigs.com to create a forum signature that contains your avatar picture, skills, stats, and other information. Now players that idolize you can easily click it and read more about you on a profile page or the armory.
