When we think of video games, we often imagine the likes of Super Mario, Sonic, or Lara Croft. Human characters dominate the gaming industry, but over the years, animal characters have garnered a considerable fan base. From Pikachu in Pokemon to Donkey Kong, these animal characters have become an unforgettable part of our gaming experience. But they are more than just cute; they have depth and personality that enhance the gaming experience.
Importance of Animal Characters in Video Games
Animal characters in video games provide a unique perspective that human characters cannot. They introduce an element of fantasy to the game and create a bridge between humans and nature. Animal characters have played an essential role in the video game industry since its inception.
As children, many of us grew up playing games with animal characters – from Mario’s dinosaur companion, Yoshi to Crash Bandicoot’s larger-than-life marsupial hero. These characters have a lasting impact on us. They create memories, and that’s why we hold them dear to our hearts.
As players, we identify with the animal characters more than the human ones. They are capable of evoking strong emotions and making us laugh, cry, and cheer with their antics. Animal characters often take on human qualities, and this makes them relatable, funny, and sometimes even inspiring.
How Animal Characters Make Video Games Better
1. They Enhance the Storyline:
Animal characters add more variety to the storyline of video games. For instance, in the game Horace, an emotional robot who befriends a cute dog adds a human element to the game. This makes the game more meaningful by adding an emotional backstory that players can relate to. The animal characters can also play villains, heroes, or helpers, which brings an extra layer of complexity to the story.
2. They Bring Humor:
Animal characters often carry a sense of humor that human characters sometimes lack. This humor gives the game more personality and makes it more enjoyable. Take the example of Ratchet & Clank; not only does Clank provide comedic relief, but his character also helps to progress the game.
3. They Make Games More Accessible:
Some video games, such as heavy war games, can be intimidating to people who are not familiar with the genre. However, animal characters can make the game more accessible and welcoming. Whether you play as a cute bird or a fearsome dragon, the animal aspect can make the game seem less daunting and more fun.
4. They Create the Perfect Mascot:
When a video game has an animal character as a lead, it can create the perfect mascot. Mario is a prime example of this, and so is Sonic the Hedgehog. These characters have become a face for their respective gaming series and have become incredibly popular with gamers around the world.
Animal Characters and Diversity in Gaming
The presence of animal characters has also allowed for more diversity in video games. In a world where there is a significant lack of ethnic diversity in video games, animal characters have offered a solution to this problem. They have broken down barriers and allowed for more creativity in character design.
Animal characters also create safer spaces for individuals who do not see themselves represented in human characters. They allow all players to have a sense of belonging and a common interest in the game, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or culture.
Conclusion
Animal characters in video games are more than just cute; they have depth and personality that make them an integral part of our gaming experience. They provide a unique perspective that human characters cannot. They enhance the storyline, bring humor, make games more accessible, and create the perfect mascot. Moreover, animal characters offer a solution to the lack of diversity in gaming. They bring people together and allow them to identify with something that they love – be it a cute little creature or a fearsome dragon.
As we continue to progress in the video game industry, animal characters will undoubtedly continue to play a vital role in enhancing the gaming experience. They create memories, make us laugh and cry, and inspire us to keep playing. The world of video games would not be the same without them.
Deja una respuesta