What Makes Us Roleplay? : Othor Games

» Thu Apr 02, 2015 12:22 am

Being an avid fan of the Extra Credits channel on YouTube, I just watched an episode (from late last February) about this very topic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJCEQaSlvHE.

The question is not about the "psychology" of roleplayng, but how it applies to video games specifically, and what about them gets us "roleplaying."

They use some great examples from games and just thought I'd start a topic on the oft discussed Role Play aspect of gaming :smile:

Some of their examples were Deusix: Human Revolution where if we do not go save the hostages they die, or Chrono Trigger later on having the character placed "on trial" with their actions throughout the game highlighted, like breaking containers, stealing food, and the like.

What is it about games that gets you into your character? Any fun examples?

» Thu Apr 02, 2015 1:23 am

First of all, good topic. :smile:

I would have to say for me it is interesting bits of story added for extra goodness. Here are some examples from my favorite games, which contain lots of spoilers, so here goes.

Oblivion spoiler for the Dark Brotherhood:

Spoiler

When asked to cleanse the Dark Brotherhood. It took me a good while to decide to carry out this mission. I had become part of their 'family' and really felt conflicted when the situation arose.

Dragon Age Origin romancing Alistair spoiler:

Spoiler

When Alistair unexpectedly gives you the speech about how he appreciates you/your character and gives you a single beautiful rose.

Lost Odyssey and Kaim's Thousand years of memories stories. Those are some of the most amazing short stories that really drew me into the character.

Fallout: New Vegas: Traveling with Boone and he finally

Spoiler

agrees to tell you what happened to his wife.

Actually most of the companions that I traveled with got me quite invested in their story and role playing. I really wanted to help them.

Skyrim with the Frostfall mod really made me feel how tough it would be to survive in such a harsh and unforgiving environment.

» Thu Apr 02, 2015 4:14 pm

I like what I can do. For example, being a Roman General during the conquest of Europe (I have some sort of roleplaying disease, if the game isn't straight forward, be sure I will roleplay it) or being a hero that will save mankind for some threat... or when I feel angry, why not become a member of the Dark Brotherhood and kill? I see roleplaying as a way out. I can be really furious and want to express it but obviously I won't do it in real life, but in a game, I sure can. (or not, I can't make evil choices like those in the Fable series)