The very first decision you will face in Back to the Dawn is to select between two characters: Thomas and Bob. Both characters have their own storyline and abilities that drastically change the game. While the prison setting remains the same for both characters, the story’s unfolding will be different. If you are just starting Back to the Dawn, the guide covers all the details about Thomas and Bob for your first playthrough.
Thomas The Fox or Bob The Black Panther

Here we will take a look at all the statistical details of each of these characters to flesh out the conclusion.
Thomas the Fox
A local TV reporter winds up in prison for calling out the shady hands of politicians. Now it’s up to you to build a case and fight for justice.
Character Stats:
- Strength: 3
- Agility: 4
- Intelligence: 4
- Charisma: 5
Role: A TV journalist
Compared to Bob the Black Panther, the stats here fall flat. But when it comes to roleplay and newcomer-friendly, Thomas fits the scene perfectly. Thomas is an innocent who gets locked behind bars with little to no experience of prison life. Basically playing through The Shawshank Redemption. Making Thomas a perfect character if you are looking for a bit of roleplay, as Thomas has no friends in prison. Here, you are starting from scratch and building your case against injustice while looking for a way to get out of prison.
Pros:
- Perfect for immersive role play
- Journalist perks
- Stealing option
- Easier Fights
- Can choose to be part of different gangs.
- Get more escape routes.
Cons:
- Lower stats
- Weaker Damage Dealer.
Also Read: Best ways to make money in Back to the Dawn.
Bob the Black Panther
An undercover detective enters prison, hiding his secret identity for a highly confidential mission.
Character Stats:
- Strength: 5
- Agility: 6
- Intelligence: 4
- Charisma: 4
Role: Undercover Detective
From a simple TV journalist to an undercover Black Panther. Bob is a significantly stronger option compared to Thomas the Fox. While Bob the Black Panther hits hard against enemies, he also faces his own set of challenges that aren’t present in Thomas’s scenario. Making the playthrough completely different than the first one while keeping the same background.
Pros:
- Hits Harder
- Already has connections in Prison
- New Story
- Action-focused character
- A concise storytelling
Cons:
- No stealing
- Harder fights
- Fewer escape routes.
Also Read: All Trading Items & Traders in Back to the Dawn.
Thomas should be your very first character option in Back of the Dawn. A very beginner-friendly character, it comes with a lot of perks that could help any newcomer to pick up the vibe of the game. You will also have the choice of more exploration and more beginner-friendly features compared to Bob. Save Bob’s playthrough for the second run at the game after completing as Thomas.