Player Archetypes: Behavioral Strategy Classes
These represent fundamentally different utility functions and decision-making algorithms - not progression tiers or moral hierarchies. Each archetype optimizes for different variables with distinct computational complexity trade-offs. Nash Equilibrium Principle: The optimal archetype is whatever maximizes your individual utility function given your constraints, capabilities, and environmental parameters.The Three Archetypes
NPC (Non-Player Character)
Heuristic-Based Decision Making NPCs implement satisficing algorithms rather than optimization routines. They follow established behavioral patterns with O(1) complexity for most decisions. Empirical data consistently shows NPCs achieve higher hedonic utility scores due to:- Social network integration: Reduced isolation probability through community embedding
- Cognitive load optimization: Minimal decision tree traversal conserves mental resources
- Stress function minimization: Accept local equilibria instead of continuous hill-climbing
- Authentic relationship graphs: Connections based on intrinsic affinity rather than instrumental value
Side Character
Domain Specialization Architecture Side Characters implement depth-first search algorithms in specific knowledge domains while maintaining breadth-first approaches elsewhere. They achieve exponential expertise curves in chosen areas through focused resource allocation.- Asymptotic competence: Knowledge accumulation approaches domain mastery limits
- Force multiplication: Enable others’ strategic objectives through specialized capabilities
- Sustainable complexity: O(log n) decision complexity in expertise domains, O(1) elsewhere
- Network centrality: Become critical nodes in dependency graphs due to unique capabilities
Main Character
Multi-Domain Coordination Engine Main Characters implement comprehensive optimization algorithms across multiple life domains simultaneously. They exhibit O(n²) decision complexity due to cross-domain dependency calculations and coordination overhead.- Total system ownership: Full responsibility for outcome variables across all domains
- Parallel processing: Simultaneous management of multiple competing objective functions
- High volatility: Greater variance in outcome distributions - both catastrophic failure and exponential success modes
- Dependency management: Others’ utility functions become inputs to your optimization routines
How to Know Which One You Are
What Comes Naturally to You
You’re Probably an NPC If:- You prefer community harmony over standing out
- You like established systems and traditions
- Routine and predictability feel comfortable
- Relationships and belonging matter more than achievement
- Too many choices and decisions stress you out
- You have clear areas where you’re naturally talented
- You enjoy being the person others come to for specific things
- You prefer being really good at some things vs. managing everything
- You want recognition for your expertise
- You’re comfortable being specialized rather than in charge of everything
- You naturally see how everything connects to everything else
- You’re comfortable with lots of responsibility and complexity
- You enjoy managing multiple competing priorities
- Uncertainty and risk don’t paralyze you
- You feel restless when you’re not in control of your life’s direction
Life Circumstances Matter
Different Life Stages:- Early 20s: Try all three approaches and see what fits
- Building a family: NPC or Side Character often work better for stability
- Career peak: Main Character approach might make sense temporarily
- Later life: Many successful Main Characters transition to simpler approaches
- Limited money/time: NPC approach often provides more sustainable happiness
- Moderate resources: Side Character specialization often works well
- Abundant resources: Main Character complexity becomes more feasible
Your Environment Matters
Different Cultures Reward Different Approaches:- Community-focused cultures: NPCs often thrive with integration and harmony
- Specialist economies: Side Characters get rewarded for deep expertise
- Entrepreneurial environments: Main Characters might have more opportunities
These Aren’t Permanent Labels
You Can Switch Based on Circumstances
Temporary Changes:- Crisis periods: You might need to temporarily become a Main Character
- Recovery phases: NPC approach for stability and community support
- Growth periods: Side Character focus on building specific skills
- Career changes: Might require temporary Main Character planning
- Relationship changes: Side Character focus on relationship skills
- Health challenges: NPC community support and proven approaches
You Can Mix and Match
NPC with Some Optimization:- Follow community patterns but optimize a few specific areas
- Community-first but with some personal efficiency improvements
- Excel in your specialty but understand how it connects to other areas
- Deep expertise with some coordination of multiple domains
- Take control of key areas while accepting standard approaches elsewhere
- Complex strategic thinking at work, simple systems at home
What Each Archetype Actually Gets You
NPC Advantages
- Less mental exhaustion: Energy available for relationships and enjoyment
- Community support: Access to collective wisdom and help when you need it
- Lower risk: Time-tested approaches reduce chances of major failures
- Real relationships: People connect with you authentically, not strategically
- Higher life satisfaction: Research consistently shows NPCs report being happier
Side Character Advantages
- Recognized expertise: Your knowledge creates opportunities and influence
- Sustainable excellence: You’re really good at things without managing everything
- Clear value: People know exactly why they need you
- Manageable growth: You improve without overwhelming complexity
- Strong identity: You know who you are through what you’re good at
Main Character Advantages
- Maximum control: Full ownership of your life’s direction and outcomes
- Compound results: Coordinating multiple areas creates bigger results
- Creating opportunities: Your planning and positioning generate new possibilities
- Leadership capability: You can influence and coordinate other people’s outcomes
- Long-term results: Your strategic thinking enables superior long-term outcomes
How to Choose
Ask Yourself These Questions
Energy and Preference:- Does complexity energize you or drain you?
- Do you prefer optimizing things or accepting them as they are?
- Are you naturally drawn to leading or contributing your expertise?
- Do you value belonging more than individual achievement?
- Is getting really good at specific things more appealing than managing everything?
- Does controlling your entire life seem exciting or overwhelming?
- Which approach makes you feel most like yourself?
- Where do you naturally excel and feel energized?
- What level of complexity helps rather than hurts your wellbeing?
Try Before You Decide
Test Each Approach:- Spend a month deliberately trying each archetype’s approach
- Notice which feels most natural and gives you energy
- See which one produces sustainable satisfaction, not just short-term results
- Try different archetypes in different parts of your life
- Maybe Main Character at work, NPC at home
- Side Character for relationships, NPC for health, Main Character for career
Your archetype is a choice about how you want to approach life. There’s no wrong answer - only what actually works for you. Next: NPC Archetype →