I've played roleplaying games for almost 17 years now, and it's my absolute favorite thing to do. I'm very flexible in regards to what kind of characters I play, and have played everything from your stereotypical "knight in shining armor" to "insidious archwizard plotting to rule the world".
I enjoy playing characters who have their own perspectives on things, and who aren't necessarily in it for just money or riches. (Although characters like that can be a lot of fun as well).