[Legolas]

I too prefer a loose DnD-like setting, like a dark age fantasy world with DnD aspects, but also with plenty of room for other, more original creatures, magic etc.. In the same context, I prefer games where there aren't rules lurking around every corner and dice rolled for your every action. A world with the freedom to create and be original.
As far as characters are concerned, Larry pretty much said it all. Of course, if my character has little reason to stick with the group he'll go off on his own.
In much the same way I have no problems with killing off my own characters, except that there has to be a good reason for it.
Well, not always. I created a thief named Skip once (who tended to wet his pants at every oppertunity) and I had some great plans concerning his demise (you could even say he was created to die). Unfortunately for me, fortunately for Skip, others kept stepping in to rescue him...