RPG Companions Need to be Imperfect and Flawed

When it comes to role-playing games (RPGs), one of the most essential elements is the companions that join you on your adventures. However, it’s not just about having a cast of likable characters; it’s about creating a sense of realism and depth that draws players in and makes them invested in the story.

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Harvey Randall, a PC Gamer writer, recently argued that RPG companions need to be hateable, otherwise, nobody’s going to love them. In his article, Randall discussed how companions who are imperfect and flawed are more relatable and endearing to players. He used the example of Gale from Baldur’s Gate 3, who has a toxic and unpleasant response to being told he was just ‘fine’ in bed. This reaction made Gale more believable and relatable as a character.

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Randall’s argument is that companions who are too perfect or likable can come across as unrealistic and unengaging. He used the example of the cast from Dragon Age: The Veilguard, which he felt was too bland and uninteresting. The characters in this game were likable but lacked any real depth or flaws, making them feel like empty vessels for players to project their emotions onto.

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On the other hand, companions who are imperfect and flawed can create a sense of tension and conflict that makes the story more engaging. Randall cited the example of Alistair and Morrigan from Dragon Age: Origins, who had a complex and often contentious relationship. Their banter and disagreements added depth and humor to the story, making them more memorable and relatable characters.

The key to creating relatable and engaging companions is to give them flaws and imperfections that make them feel more realistic. This can include things like insecurity, pettiness, or even toxicity. By making companions more human-like, players can become more invested in their stories and develop a deeper connection with the characters.

Ultimately, the goal of creating imperfect and flawed companions is to create a sense of realism and depth that draws players in and makes them invested in the story. By giving companions flaws and imperfections, game developers can create a more engaging and memorable experience for players.

So, the next time you’re playing an RPG, pay attention to the companions that join you on your adventures. Do they have flaws and imperfections that make them feel more realistic? Or are they too perfect and likable? The answer to this question can make all the difference in how invested you become in the story.

Some key takeaways from this article include:

• RPG companions need to be imperfect and flawed to create a sense of realism and depth.
• Companions who are too perfect or likable can come across as unrealistic and unengaging.
• Flaws and imperfections can create tension and conflict that makes the story more engaging.
• Creating relatable and engaging companions is key to developing a deeper connection with players.

The Science Behind Imperfect Companions

But why do imperfect companions work so well in RPGs? The answer lies in the science behind social bonding and attachment. When we form relationships with others, we tend to focus on their positive qualities and overlook their flaws. However, when we’re exposed to imperfections and flaws, it can create a sense of tension and conflict that makes the relationship more engaging and memorable.

Studies have shown that oxytocin, a chemical responsible for social bonding, kicks in when we read stories. This means that when we’re exposed to imperfect companions, our brains are more likely to release oxytocin, which can create a sense of attachment and connection. By giving companions flaws and imperfections, game developers can create a more engaging and memorable experience for players.

So, the next time you’re playing an RPG, remember that imperfect companions are not a bug, but a feature. They’re what make the story more engaging and memorable, and what create a deeper connection with the characters. By embracing imperfections and flaws, game developers can create a more realistic and immersive experience for players.