I have a question concerning the Background packages introduced in IH. I can't seem to find anywhere that states a character that takes a background package does not start with the careers normal starting skills and talents. Did I miss this in the errata?

Salcor

Yes, you begin play with all of the standard skill/talent choices presented by whatever career you chose. The background packages are alternate uses for the 400XP you start play with - you're buying those groups of modifications, rather than buying individual advances listed on the rank 1 table.

Lathi said:

Bear in mind that xp spend on background packages isn't counted towards your next rank. Essentially, they don't cost xp, but rather reduce your starting xp by a set amount.

That is what I thought. Thanks.

Salcor

Doesnt some of the background packages state in text that you replaces your starting skills/talents? Thats what I read at least....is that a typo then? I am so confused ;

Dovre said:

As a general rule, background packages don't replace anything. Specific packages may do so if it's specifically mentioned. So unless the background makes specific mention of it, you don't lose anything.

I can't off the top of my head recall a background package that does this, though.

Considering what talents and skills they hand out, replacing the existing stuff would be somewhat silly, as you'd then have Guardsmen that can't handle any weapon.

Slaunyeh said:

I can't think of any background packages that do but the Calixis specific Homeworlds make modifications to existing Homeworld choices ala Battlefleet Calixis (Void Born), Volg Hive (Hive Born), and so on....