All his life he has looked away... to the future, to the horizon. Never his mind on where he was. Hmm? What he was doing?
- Yoda, The Empire Strikes Back
The most important thing when creating a roleplaying character, more so in the case of superhero roleplaying, is to develop a character idea before even looking at the rulebook. Develop the characters background and powers in your mind first, then look at how to accomplish what you want using the rules. Players who do not do this will end up with characters optimised to take advantage of the rules and not concentrate on the important aspect of roleplaying.
All characters start with a core idea. This can come from anywhere. An idea of cool powers, name or motivation. It can be stolen from an existing comic or cartoon or any other story you like.
What is the source of the characters powers? Is it radiation, mystical/magical, mutation, alien, technological, from an object, genetic. Were they born with them or attained them later? How were they changed by their powers? How do they react when under the influence of say; radiation? Are they vulnerable to certain types of energy?
What is the hero's attitude? Why did he become a hero. To fight injustice? Because he thought he ought to? because he feels he needs to prove something? Who is he proving it to? Personal glory? Payment? Revenge? For what? How were they before they got their powers? were they just as good and righteous. Have their powers made them more responsible or more vengeful. Are they a bonus to help others (and sometimes themselves) or a hindrance?
Does the character have any flaws? Are they caused by their powers (a side-effect) or are they personality/psychologically based?
Country of origin? A character's county of origin can be important in roleplaying terms. It can led to conflict or friendships with the other players and also provide the chance for an entertaining accent.
what city is the character's home town? How is he/she viewed by the occupants of the city. Do they hate him/her or are they the cities hero. Do different parts of the populace have different feelings towards the hero. How does the local media treat him? Is he a vigilante or a local/national star. Does the populace even know about him, or is he a shadowy figure, a local legend who no-one sees (a la daredevil)? How does local law enforcement treat him. Does he work with them/have their respect (a la batman) or is he treated with contempt and arrest attempts? What was the reaction when he left to join the team?
Do they have a secret identity. What does their character do. Does he know the hero. Does he have family? Who knows about the secret identity? Does he have any friends/sidekicks?
Another of the most important aspects of a superhero is his name. This can be inspired from many things. A few suggestions are here:
Colorful: Red, blue, green, gold, silver, other coloursSpandex, Leather, Capes, Hidden, No outfit
Why did the hero decide to join the team. De he apply formally? Was he requested? Did he meet one the existing team members and strike up a friendship?