A rival is most useful when they challenge how a character pursues a goal, not merely whether the character succeeds. The rivalry should create repeated choices while leaving both people capable of change.
Rival Template
- Shared arena: What role, resource, recognition, or relationship puts them in contact?
- Competing goal: What cannot both characters obtain in the same way?
- Credible strength: What does the rival genuinely do better?
- Different method: Which value or tactic creates contrast?
- Respect: What quality can each acknowledge reluctantly?
- Limit: What will the rival refuse to do?
- Escalation: What could turn competition into harm?
- Independent future: What does the rival want outside the rivalry?
Example
Two navigators seek the same expedition appointment. One relies on careful records and public accountability; the other trusts field experience and private favors. The second reads weather better, while the first manages a team more safely. Both refuse to sabotage equipment. Their rivalry escalates when only one route can receive emergency supplies, but either may eventually recommend the other for a different mission.
Keep the Rival Playable
- Let the rival win sometimes for understandable reasons.
- Give them relationships that do not involve the main character.
- Avoid making every disagreement proof of hidden evil.
- Allow cooperation when circumstances make it sensible.
Create the rival as a complete person using a CharHaven starter template, then link the profiles so the shared history is visible from both sides.
