Identifying with Video Game Characters: A Personal Journey
Do you ever find yourself relating to a video game character so strongly that it feels like they are a part of your life? In this essay, we explore the concept of player identification with video game characters, using personal anecdotes and observations to illustrate the complex relationships we build with characters in our favorite games. If you're curious about which characters you relate to the most and why, keep reading!
The Power of Connection Through Video Games
For many gamers, the characters they play as or encounter in video games serve as spiritual mirrors, reflecting parts of themselves. We often find characters relatable based on their actions, traits, and experiences. This identification can be a comforting or empowering experience, as players can relate to characters' struggles, triumphs, and challenges.
Modern Video Game Characters and Their Appeal
One character that resonates deeply with many players is Bishop from the game Rainbow Six: Vegas 2. Players often find themselves closely identifying with Bishop due to his demeanor and backstory, which mirrors real-life scenarios.
Similarly, when asked Izaya Shimizu (Hwoarang) from Tekken, Ryuji Sakamoto from Persona 5, and Henry Townshend from Silent Hill 4, stand out as characters who resonate with me. Each of these characters shares unique traits and experiences that parallel my own life and struggles. Let's delve deeper into why they hold a special place in my heart and what makes them relatable.
Bishop: Rainbow Six: Vegas 2
Bishop is the protagonist of Rainbow Six: Vegas 2. Players often find themselves feeling like Bishop in the real world because of his actions and his character arc. The game itself is about stealth and tactical operations, but it also delves into the personal lives of the characters, making it easy for players to relate to their struggles and triumphs.
Similar to how I have to put in effort to build myself up in real life, players invest time and effort into building Bishop up in the game. This investment fosters a strong connection between the player and the character. Bishop's journey is one of self-discovery and growth, much like many of us navigate our own lives.
Hwoarang: Tekken
Hwoarang Shimizu from the Tekken series is another character who stands out for me. Hwoarang is known for his rebellious and perverted personality, which aligns with certain aspects of my own life. His journey is one of self-discovery and transformation, and I find myself relating to his struggles and triumphs.
Like Hwoarang, I can be vulgar and aggressive at times, which is something that connects us. Our shared zodiac sign, Cancer, also adds another layer of connection. These shared traits make Hwoarang a character I deeply relate to and find inspiring.
Ryuji Sakamoto: Persona 5
Ryuji Sakamoto, the protagonist of Persona 5, is a character who shares many traits with myself. Both Ryuji and I are perverted, rebellious troublemakers, and we tend to be protective and clumsy. These shared traits make it easy for me to connect with Ryuji on a deep level. Moreover, we both care deeply about those we are close to, which adds another layer of connection.
Academically, Ryuji's grades are not great, which is something I can relate to personally. We both have to work hard to achieve our goals, which is a recurring theme in both of our lives. This shared struggle is another reason why I find Ryuji so relatable.
Henry Townshend: Silent Hill 4
Henry Townshend from Silent Hill 4 is yet another character who resonates with me. Henry is an introverted freelance photographer, but I can relate to his introverted nature and desire to help others. We are both shy when meeting new people and prefer staying at home instead of going to parties. This introverted personality trait is something we share.
Henry's willingness to help others is another trait that we have in common. Both Henry and I are more willing to help others than ourselves, which is an admirable quality even if it can be challenging at times.
Conclusion
Playing video games is not just about entertainment; it can be a deeply personal experience. Characters like Bishop, Hwoarang, Ryuji, and Henry remind us that we are not alone and that there are others who understand us.
If you're interested in participating in a survey about player identification with video game characters, you can take part by clicking this link.
Together, let's continue to explore the rich and complex relationships we build with video game characters.