I started the game with a strict roleplaying but then I figured I still want to be the head of every faction like in Oblivion. So I'll just go with the idea of my character having a traumatic experience and turning into a sneaky backstabber from a lion hearted barbarian.

I still limit myself while looting though. I never take items that I don't use (except for the gems), I only loot the magical items for disenchantment and I only wear the armor I craft myself.

This is my dilemma too! My character is basically good, but I still want to experience all the gameplay and factions (without having to roll new characters). So I justified joining the Theives Guild by being a double agent, and infilitrating it from the inside. Once I have control I can bring it down! Not sure how the hell I'm going to justify joining the Dark Brotherhood though

I don't go very far with role playing. I will create a backstory, and try to give the character a personality. I don't go beyond that, though. I like to experience everything in a game, and prefer to avoid making it impossible for me to. Not saying role playing makes thing less enjoyable for me, I just don't want to go too far with role playing unless it feels right for the game. In Deus Ex Human Revolution I felt role playing made it more fun. That game wasn't an open world game of any kind, though.

LMAO.

Like many others, I've created a backstory for my character and try to make choices I feel suit for him. I don't like traveling at night as I can't see my surroundings. Therefore I usually sleep at night. I only use food for boosting health. No fast-travel under any circumstances. When in town, normal clothes, in the wilderness armor of course. No carrying impossible amounts of stuff or looting everything in dungeons.

My nord ranger ( sword & bow ), Thor, follows his own moral codes. Helps if the task feels important and the person asking seems righteous. There is no good or bad, actions are based on observation and deduction.

Before returning in Skyrim he had been doing mercenary work all over Tamriel for over 30 years. So very hardened and experienced. Heard of the civil war and decided to come and fight with the Stormcloacks. Hates Imperial army and Thalmor for their lack of respect for Skyrims own culture and for banning the worship of Talos. Imperial pigs caught him trying to cross the border.

Felt like the companions were the place for him until they offered to change him into a werewolf. Deserted the guild after that. No other factions. Lone wolf, no followers or aid in battle.

In combat relies in silent approach, killing enemies with his bow. Finishes rest of them with his sword, which he uses very well. Mixed light and heavy armor. No helmets since they restrict the view when shooting with a bow. Main skills one-handed, archery, sneaking and blocking. No shield though, makes traveling and smooth changes between bow and sword hard. No magic except shouts. Potions yes. Smithing only that much so he can repair his gear and sharpen his blade.