Page 58 - Character Designer's Handbook [2020 Sampler Edition]

Introduction

Sometimes the most def ining thing about a character is how they interact with

other characters. Dynamics are the forces or properties that stimulate

growth,development, or change within a system or process. In the case of

character dynamics we're discussing how the factors of a character relationship

af fect how the character develops. There are two primary types of dynamics.

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Positive Character Dynamicsositive Character Dynamics
Positive character relationships can range from family and friends to romantic partners.
These types of relationships are typically driven by positive interactions and emotions. A
positive relationship is typically motivating or inspiring for the character's
development.They can also encourage the character to seek change,find peace or seek
self-improvement.

It's important to note that the relationships themselves don't need to be and realistically
shouldn't be 100% positive in nature. Animosity exists even in healthy relationships.
However, the general root of the relationship being positive is what would put that
relationship into the category of being positive.

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Negative Character Dynamicsegative Character Dynamics
When you're dealing with character relationships it's hard to ignore the negative ones
but it's also a mistake to downplay those relationships. Negative character relationships
range from rivals and villains to just a simple foil character but they're actually rich
sources for development when utilized properly and developed.

The emotions behind negative relationships are often more passionate and harder to
interpret than positive ones. They can be as simple as jealousy or anger but also have
the potential to be deeper like an insecurity or poorly communicated admiration. Often
these negative influences are the true catalyst to people wanting to grow and change.
Negative relationships define a character in ways a positive one can't because they
create a genuine challenge.

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