In my next playthrough I'll probably try to play as a common man. That is, I'll make a character that mimics a specific unit, both in regards to strategy as well as equipment. For instance, if I choose to play as a Rhodok Veteran Spearman I'd use the same items that unit uses (and perhaps the same skills, but that might be over the top). This is so you get a reason to use items you normally wouldn't use. I would also use the same strategy in combat, basically run with the other Rhodok Veteran Spearmen. A common unit, as opposed to a hero commander, essentially. Perhaps that is something you could try out?
You can also add a bit of randomness to everything and let chance decide everything. Which faction you'll join? Let lady luck decide. What skill you focus on? Same thing there. What items you'll wear? You get the idea. Basically, make a character that's entirely based on the luck of the draw and you'll no doubt end up with something unique (imagine all the weird stat and item combinations you'll end up with).
Lastly, you can give the "Item of Destiny" concept a try. The idea is that you select a specific item type (e.g. one-handed blunt weapon) and as soon as that specific item type drops - regardless of what stats it has - you stick to that one item throughout the rest of the game. Until you find it, you're stuck with your starting weapon. It goes without saying that some items will drop easier than others, but at the same time it's possible to control the drops you get by avoiding the troops that drop undesirable items. At the same time, it means you'll use the starting weapon for a longer time, so it's up to you.
