Archetypes

In interactive storytelling, archetypes define the relationship between the persona and the player. We've introduced these to Colibri to help you better remember the role of the persona in your interactive narrative.

Available Archetypes

• Boss Represents authority. This persona directs, evaluates, and may pressure the player. Choices often involve following orders, pushing back, or negotiating.

• Sidekick A supportive ally who reinforces the player’s decisions, provides encouragement, and sometimes comic relief or morale.

• Antagonist Actively opposes the player’s goals. The antagonist generates conflict, tension, and obstacles to overcome.

• Subordinate Relies on the player for direction and authority. This persona asks for guidance, carries out instructions, and tests the player’s leadership.

• Colleague Works alongside the player at an equal level. The relationship is peer-to-peer, often involving cooperation, debate, or negotiation.

• Expert Provides specialist knowledge the player does not have. The expert may advise, warn, or challenge decisions based on their expertise.

• Customer A persona who receives or evaluates the player’s service or product. They create pressure through expectations, satisfaction, or dissatisfaction.

• Neutral Neither clearly aligned with nor opposed to the player. Neutral archetypes create ambiguity (their stance may shift depending on the player’s choices).