Characters are the heart of any story, and in interactive novels, they play an even more crucial role. Since readers actively engage with characters through their choices, it’s essential to craft compelling, multidimensional personalities that respond dynamically to decisions. AdventureBuildr makes it easier to integrate character development into your interactive novel, but creating engaging characters still requires thought and effort.

Why Characters Matter

Characters drive the emotional core of a story. They give readers someone to root for, empathize with, or even despise. In interactive novels, characters must not only serve the plot but also react to the reader’s choices, creating a sense of consequence and connection.

Key Functions of Characters

• Protagonists: The reader’s avatar or the main character they follow.
• Supporting Characters: Allies, mentors, or companions who provide guidance, conflict, or emotional depth.
• Antagonists: Forces opposing the protagonist, adding stakes and tension.
• Dynamic Characters: Individuals whose arcs evolve in response to player decisions.

Character-Driven Choices

In interactive stories, choices are more compelling when tied to character motivations. Develop well-rounded characters with clear goals, fears, and desires. For each character:

• Define Strengths and Weaknesses: How do these traits influence decisions?
• Give Them Agency: Characters should respond dynamically to player choices.

Example Framework

• Protagonist: Who is the player? What are their goals and obstacles?
• Supporting Characters: How do allies and rivals influence the story?

Why This Matters

Interactive novels thrive on emotional engagement. Readers are more invested when choices affect beloved (or hated) characters.