For all three toy types, you can use the same ultra‑generic trio: motivation, relationship, and immediate problem. Motivation is “why this thing exists or acts,” relationship is “who or what it is most connected to,” and immediate problem is “what is happening right now that stresses or changes it.”[1][2]

Single template for all toys

Use this same three‑part template, regardless of whether it is a character, location, or situation.[2][3]

• Motivation: What this person/place/event is fundamentally trying to do or be (their purpose or goal).
• Relationship: The most important link it has to someone or something else (faction, NPC, PC, resource, belief).
• Immediate problem: The current, time‑sensitive issue colliding with that motivation and relationship in this moment.

How it maps per type

Applying the same three requirements keeps prep minimal but rich.[4][2]

• Character: Motivation (goal), relationship (who they care about or serve), immediate problem (today’s crisis).
• Location: Motivation (why it exists / its function), relationship (who uses or controls it), immediate problem (what is going wrong here now).
• Situation: Motivation (the outcome the situation is driving toward), relationship (which parties are bound up in it), immediate problem (the current flashpoint or ticking clock).

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