# 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 <a href="#available-archetypes" id="available-archetypes"></a>

* **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).

{% @mermaid/diagram content="%%{init: {'theme': 'base', 'themeVariables': {
'fontSize': '18px',
'textColor': '#222',
'primaryColor': '#f7f9fb',
'primaryBorderColor': '#9aa4b2',
'lineColor': '#c9d2de',
'lineWidth': '1px'
}}}%%

mindmap
root((**Player**))
*Authority*
**Boss**
Represents authority; directs, evaluates, may pressure the player.\
Choices often involve following orders, pushing back, or negotiating.
**Subordinate**
Relies on the player for direction and authority.\
Asks for guidance, executes tasks, and tests leadership.
*Allies*
**Sidekick**
Supportive ally who reinforces decisions and boosts morale.
**Colleague**
Peer relationship; cooperation, debate, or negotiation as equals.
*Stakeholders*
**Expert**
Provides specialist knowledge the player lacks; may advise, warn, or challenge decisions.
**Customer**
Receives/evaluates the player’s service or product;\
creates pressure via expectations and satisfaction.
*Opposition*
**Antagonist**
Opposes the player’s goals; creates conflict, tension, and obstacles.
**Neutral**
Neither aligned nor opposed; stance may shift based on player choices." %}