Another handy tip is watch the names and descriptions of your character. I like Japanese names too, but not all games take place in Japan or even in the real world. Some are fine, but some just don't fit in at all. Watch for that. Also watch for English names that just don't seem to fit (for example, what kind of Saiyan warrior would be named Brian? Who in Star Wars could possibly be named Brittany?)

And for descriptions, try throwing some variety in. Even if you want all your characters to look basically the same, throw in something different each time- a scar, a different haircut, a tattoo, a third arm, something. And read other people's descriptions. If everyone else has black hair, black eyes, and wears black leather, then pick something different. It's also your responsibility to make sure their costume fits the genre. A mideval RPG with everyone dressed like Matrix extras won't hack it.

Forgive the rant, but lack of imagination in characters, out of place names and descriptions, or too many of the same type really kills an RPG in my opinion.