Current Events > How often does relatability factor into storytelling for you?

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FortuneCookie 03/23/24 12:23:04 AM #1:	Naively, I legitimately thought people were being ironic when at first I saw complaints about not being able to relate to a character after a race change. If they coupled their sentiments with racist vitriol, then I knew they weren't playing. I actually kind of did a double-take when I found out that relating to a character was a real thing. In all my life, I can really only think of about 3-to-5 characters for which I could say that I "identified with them." Nationality means more to me than ethnicity. If a movie features a Black American and a White Brit, I'm going to identify more with the American despite far and away having more shared life experiences with the Brit. Sex and gender are important factors, but there's always the universality of story-telling. If the underappreciated worker gets a better job, I might relate to that situation regardless of whether or not I fall into the same demographic (race, sex, orientation, etc.). Religion can be important. Of the few characters that I've found myself able to easily identify with, one was Muslim and one was Buddhist. If you have a bunch of characters of different religious backgrounds, it's going to be pretty impossible for me to relate to a character who is of a faith other than Christianity. I guess Iron Man is the most relatable superhero for me, despite him being an atheist (and a billionaire from birth), but that's a bit of a dummy prize. Choice of love interest throws most things out the window. If there's a character who looks like me, talks like me, has similar interests and opinions to my own, etc., but he chooses the sardonic and bottom-heavy goth over the upbeat and top-heavy cheerleader, that boy ain't me an' ain't a-never gonna be me. Conversely, if the Arab-Muslim guy is the only one to see that the vivacious redhead is literally the perfect woman, I'll identify with him until the story makes it impossible to do so. "So what if he's another religion and a member of another ethnic group?" "So what if he came from poverty and I didn't?" "So what if he's a vegetari-Okay, I kinda like meat too much to part with." "So what if he's a socialist and... Alright, alright. I'll admit he's not me. He has hella good taste in women though." Though I've stepped into the trap once or twice, I'm not a huge fan of the "This character is you" trope. I'd rather have characters independently be written to be who they are than to try and force relatability. I'm not a market, I'm me. If a character ends up being relatable, more power to them. If they don't, they should be entertaining enough that I'm able to enjoy their story without the self-insert fantasy. <cite>FortuneCookie posted [p:979515923] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Naively, I legitimately thought people were being ironic when at first I saw complaints about not being able to relate to a character after a race change. If they coupled their sentiments with racist vitriol, then I knew they weren't playing. I actually kind of did a double-take when I found out that relating to a character was a real thing. In all my life, I can really only think of about 3-to-5 characters for which I could say that I "identified with them."Nationality means more to me than ethnicity. If a movie features a Black American and a White Brit, I'm going to identify more with the American despite far and away having more shared life experiences with the Brit. Sex and gender are important factors, but there's always the universality of story-telling. If the underappreciated worker gets a better job, I might relate to that situation regardless of whether or not I fall into the same demographic (race, sex, orientation, etc.).Religion can be important. Of the few characters that I've found myself able to easily identify with, one was Muslim and one was Buddhist. If you have a bunch of characters of different religious backgrounds, it's going to be pretty impossible for me to relate to a character who is of a faith other than Christianity. I guess Iron Man is the most relatable superhero for me, despite him being an atheist (and a billionaire from birth), but that's a bit of a dummy prize.Choice of love interest throws most things out the window. If there's a character who looks like me, talks like me, has similar interests and opinions to my own, etc., but he chooses the sardonic and bottom-heavy goth over the upbeat and top-heavy cheerleader, that boy ain't me an' ain't a-never gonna be me. Conversely, if the Arab-Muslim guy is the only one to see that the vivacious redhead is literally the perfect woman, I'll identify with him until the story makes it impossible to do so. "So what if he's another religion and a member of another ethnic group?" "So what if he came from poverty and I didn't?" "So what if he's a vegetari-Okay, I kinda like meat too much to part with." "So what if he's a socialist and... Alright, alright. I'll admit he's not me. He has hella good taste in women though."Though I've stepped into the trap once or twice, I'm not a huge fan of the "This character is you" trope. I'd rather have characters independently be written to be who they are than to try and force relatability. I'm not a market, I'm me. If a character ends up being relatable, more power to them. If they don't, they should be entertaining enough that I'm able to enjoy their story without the self-insert fantasy.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Itachi157 03/23/24 12:24:06 AM #2:	I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story. <cite>Itachi157 posted [p:979515936] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
FortuneCookie 03/23/24 12:25:12 AM #3:	Itachi157 posted... I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story. <cite>FortuneCookie posted [p:979515947] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Itachi157 posted... </cite><quote>I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story.</quote></quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
refmon 03/23/24 12:25:29 AM #4:	Itachi157 posted... I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story. --- If you read this signature, then that meant that I had control of what you read for 5 SECONDS!! <cite>refmon posted [p:979515950] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Itachi157 posted... </cite><quote>I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story.</quote> </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
BloodMoon7 03/23/24 12:26:45 AM #5:	Depends on if the character is supposed to represent the audience or not. I can't relate to Harry Potter because he's Harry Potter. And cause he has bad taste in girls. --- My maid will hear about this. <cite>BloodMoon7 posted [p:979515963] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Depends on if the character is supposed to represent the audience or not. I can't relate to Harry Potter because he's Harry Potter. And cause he has bad taste in girls. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
EDF-5 03/23/24 12:38:56 AM #6:	I agree with what you wrote and don't have much to add other than 'as long as it's not forced relatability' <cite>EDF-5 posted [p:979516099] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>I agree with what you wrote and don't have much to add other than 'as long as it's not forced relatability'</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
FortuneCookie 03/23/24 12:56:17 AM #7:	BloodMoon7 posted... Depends on if the character is supposed to represent the audience or not. I can't relate to Harry Potter because he's Harry Potter. And cause he has bad taste in girls. Definitely an example of a story that I view as an outsider. EDF-5 posted... I agree with what you wrote and don't have much to add other than 'as long as it's not forced relatability' Thanks. <cite>FortuneCookie posted [p:979516278] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>BloodMoon7 posted... </cite><quote>Depends on if the character is supposed to represent the audience or not. I can't relate to Harry Potter because he's Harry Potter. And cause he has bad taste in girls.</quote>Definitely an example of a story that I view as an outsider.EDF-5 posted... </cite><quote>I agree with what you wrote and don't have much to add other than 'as long as it's not forced relatability'</quote>Thanks.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Kradek 03/23/24 3:51:50 AM #8:	None, I don't give a shit and I don't expect a character or storyline to be relatable. It would be weird for a story to be relatable, honestly. Ok, but I will say, there are a few characters I have seen that are relatable, such as Quentin from The Magicians. I related way too hard to him at times and honestly it was uncomfortable; did not enjoy it when it happened. --- My metal band, Ivory King, has 2 songs out now - allmylinks.com/ivorykingtx (all of our links there so you can choose which one you'd prefer to use) <cite>Kradek posted [p:979517599] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>None, I don't give a shit and I don't expect a character or storyline to be relatable. It would be weird for a story to be relatable, honestly. Ok, but I will say, there are a few characters I have seen that are relatable, such as Quentin from The Magicians. I related way too hard to him at times and honestly it was uncomfortable; did not enjoy it when it happened. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Dark_Arbron 03/23/24 4:09:25 AM #9:	Itachi157 posted... I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story. --- "How is that a religious topic? That's just me talking about GOD." -Frostmourne <cite>Dark_Arbron posted [p:979517688] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Itachi157 posted... </cite><quote>I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story.</quote> </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Dark_Arbron 03/23/24 4:10:27 AM #10:	Kradek posted... None, I don't give a shit and I don't expect a character or storyline to be relatable. This, I have no idea why people are so insistent on relatability. --- "How is that a religious topic? That's just me talking about GOD." -Frostmourne <cite>Dark_Arbron posted [p:979517694] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Kradek posted... </cite><quote>None, I don't give a shit and I don't expect a character or storyline to be relatable.</quote>This, I have no idea why people are so insistent on relatability. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
ai123 03/23/24 4:15:34 AM #11:	BloodMoon7 posted... Depends on if the character is supposed to represent the audience or not. I can't relate to Harry Potter because he's Harry Potter. And cause he has bad taste in girls. A huge part of Harry Potter's appeal is relatability/wish fulfillment. The quiet, nerdy kid who doesn't fit in turns out to be the powerful, heroic wizard! (While still being a schoolkid like you). Relatability is engaging with fiction at the most basic level ('I like reading stuff about people like me'), but its importance in shifting units cannot be underestimated. --- 'Vinyl is the poor man's art collection'. <cite>ai123 posted [p:979517731] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>BloodMoon7 posted... </cite><quote>Depends on if the character is supposed to represent the audience or not. I can't relate to Harry Potter because he's Harry Potter. And cause he has bad taste in girls.</quote>A huge part of Harry Potter's appeal is relatability/wish fulfillment.The quiet, nerdy kid who doesn't fit in turns out to be the powerful, heroic wizard! (While still being a schoolkid like you).Relatability is engaging with fiction at the most basic level ('I like reading stuff about people like me'), but its importance in shifting units cannot be underestimated. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Sufferedphoenix 03/23/24 4:36:00 AM #12:	I don't even really think about it. Closest character I can think of I related too is squall. Ya know a loner that wants to be left alone but for whatever reason kept having people push him to be a leader. --- I put my heart and soul into my work and I fear I have lost my mind in the process <cite>Sufferedphoenix posted [p:979517815] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>I don't even really think about it. Closest character I can think of I related too is squall. Ya know a loner that wants to be left alone but for whatever reason kept having people push him to be a leader. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Zwijn 03/23/24 4:52:06 AM #13:	Not at all, since humans evolved empathy. <cite>Zwijn posted [p:979517903] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Not at all, since humans evolved empathy.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
BloodMoon7 03/23/24 7:20:23 AM #14:	ai123 posted... A huge part of Harry Potter's appeal is relatability/wish fulfillment. The quiet, nerdy kid who doesn't fit in turns out to be the powerful, heroic wizard! (While still being a schoolkid like you). Relatability is engaging with fiction at the most basic level ('I like reading stuff about people like me'), but its importance in shifting units cannot be underestimated. Eh I think even back then I knew wishes don't come true so it would take something else for me to find a character like that relatable. If anything I find it less relatable because Harry Potter is not only a wizard, he's a pretty decent one at that despite not knowing anything about living as a wizard. He also is naturally gifted at the wizarding sport Quidditch despite living in a closet and probably not exercising. And he has special abilities like speaking to snakes and also he's instantly popular because he's the Boy Who Lived, only really having a few detractors. His main rival is Draco Malfoy but even Malfoy didn't instantly hate him. I could go on and on about how much gets added to the character but it basically just made it impossible for me to think of him as relatable. And he isn't nerdy or quiet either, he's pretty outspoken and outgoing right from the start. Hermione is the nerd. --- My maid will hear about this. <cite>BloodMoon7 posted [p:979518696] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>ai123 posted... </cite><quote>A huge part of Harry Potter's appeal is relatability/wish fulfillment.The quiet, nerdy kid who doesn't fit in turns out to be the powerful, heroic wizard! (While still being a schoolkid like you).Relatability is engaging with fiction at the most basic level ('I like reading stuff about people like me'), but its importance in shifting units cannot be underestimated.</quote>Eh I think even back then I knew wishes don't come true so it would take something else for me to find a character like that relatable. If anything I find it less relatable because Harry Potter is not only a wizard, he's a pretty decent one at that despite not knowing anything about living as a wizard. He also is naturally gifted at the wizarding sport Quidditch despite living in a closet and probably not exercising. And he has special abilities like speaking to snakes and also he's instantly popular because he's the Boy Who Lived, only really having a few detractors. His main rival is Draco Malfoy but even Malfoy didn't instantly hate him. I could go on and on about how much gets added to the character but it basically just made it impossible for me to think of him as relatable. And he isn't nerdy or quiet either, he's pretty outspoken and outgoing right from the start. Hermione is the nerd. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
rexcrk 03/23/24 7:22:52 AM #15:	Relatability makes absolutely no difference to me. As long as I like the story / writing and (especially) the characters, Im good. --- Shplendid! <cite>rexcrk posted [p:979518714] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Relatability makes absolutely no difference to me. As long as I like the story / writing and (especially) the characters, Im good. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
cjsdowg 03/23/24 8:04:23 AM #16:	I believe it's valuable to find relatability in video game characters, but it's not necessary for everyone. However, I can't help but notice a trend among some players who claim they can't relate to CJ in GTA but somehow find Tommy and Claude more relatable. You can't relate to a guy who lost a family member , but you can relate to a mute psychopath and Scareface 2.0. So yeah I think something is up with that . However I think we can find something to relate to in most characters in general. Like sticking with GTA. I can relate to Franklin for wanting to be better. Driving a charger , and having an asshole friend that he really needs to dump. And Micheal for wanting to have peace in his life but never getting. But then nothing about Hill Billy Psycho is relatable. --- If you say I am wrong, then prove that you are right. <cite>cjsdowg posted [p:979519007] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>I believe it's valuable to find relatability in video game characters, but it's not necessary for everyone. However, I can't help but notice a trend among some players who claim they can't relate to CJ in GTA but somehow find Tommy and Claude more relatable. You can't relate to a guy who lost a family member , but you can relate to a mute psychopath and Scareface 2.0. So yeah I think something is up with that . However I think we can find something to relate to in most characters in general. Like sticking with GTA. I can relate to Franklin for wanting to be better. Driving a charger , and having an asshole friend that he really needs to dump. And Micheal for wanting to have peace in his life but never getting. But then nothing about Hill Billy Psycho is relatable. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
SydnieStarlight 03/23/24 8:27:43 AM #17:	It's never mattered to me, but I also acknowledge that I probably speak from a place of privilege because, for the first 20~ years of my life, it's not something I've ever lacked. Before I found myself, I thought I fell squarely in the demographic that receives the overwhelming majority of representation in the "central protagonist" category. I never even had to think about whether it's someone I can relate to. Even so...I can still say it doesn't matter to me. Being able to look at a character and say "Hey, this person is just like me!" isn't necessary for me to enjoy their story, to understand what they go through. But I also know that some people do want to be able to relate. So if there's no particular reason in the narrative for them to have certain traits, then why not make them black, non-binary, and asexual? We already have plenty of 20-something straight white guys anyway. --- Master Duel (373-244-752) \| FGO (960,463,298) Let's be friends~ <cite>SydnieStarlight posted [p:979519201] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>It's never mattered to me, but I also acknowledge that I probably speak from a place of privilege because, for the first 20~ years of my life, it's not something I've ever lacked. Before I found myself, I thought I fell squarely in the demographic that receives the overwhelming majority of representation in the "central protagonist" category. I never even had to think about whether it's someone I can relate to.Even so...I can still say it doesn't matter to me. Being able to look at a character and say "Hey, this person is just like me!" isn't necessary for me to enjoy their story, to understand what they go through. But I also know that some people do want to be able to relate. So if there's no particular reason in the narrative for them to have certain traits, then why not make them black, non-binary, and asexual? We already have plenty of 20-something straight white guys anyway. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
ai123 03/23/24 8:39:10 AM #18:	BloodMoon7 posted... Eh I think even back then I knew wishes don't come true so it would take something else for me to find a character like that relatable. If anything I find it less relatable because Harry Potter is not only a wizard, he's a pretty decent one at that despite not knowing anything about living as a wizard. He also is naturally gifted at the wizarding sport Quidditch despite living in a closet and probably not exercising. And he has special abilities like speaking to snakes and also he's instantly popular because he's the Boy Who Lived, only really having a few detractors. His main rival is Draco Malfoy but even Malfoy didn't instantly hate him. I could go on and on about how much gets added to the character but it basically just made it impossible for me to think of him as relatable. And he isn't nerdy or quiet either, he's pretty outspoken and outgoing right from the start. Hermione is the nerd. I wasn't talking about you specifically. But there are plenty of kids who found him so, and his powers were a satisfying wish fulfillment for them. Hey, as you point out, the speccy kid even turns out to be good at sport! (And in narrative shorthand, his glasses and haircut alone place him firmly in the 'nerd' category). Plain kid with shitty life turns out to be special is hugely appealing to younger readers, even if it doesn't resonate with you. --- 'Vinyl is the poor man's art collection'. <cite>ai123 posted [p:979519292] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>BloodMoon7 posted... </cite><quote>Eh I think even back then I knew wishes don't come true so it would take something else for me to find a character like that relatable. If anything I find it less relatable because Harry Potter is not only a wizard, he's a pretty decent one at that despite not knowing anything about living as a wizard. He also is naturally gifted at the wizarding sport Quidditch despite living in a closet and probably not exercising. And he has special abilities like speaking to snakes and also he's instantly popular because he's the Boy Who Lived, only really having a few detractors. His main rival is Draco Malfoy but even Malfoy didn't instantly hate him. I could go on and on about how much gets added to the character but it basically just made it impossible for me to think of him as relatable. And he isn't nerdy or quiet either, he's pretty outspoken and outgoing right from the start. Hermione is the nerd.</quote>I wasn't talking about you specifically.But there are plenty of kids who found him so, and his powers were a satisfying wish fulfillment for them. Hey, as you point out, the speccy kid even turns out to be good at sport! (And in narrative shorthand, his glasses and haircut alone place him firmly in the 'nerd' category).Plain kid with shitty life turns out to be special is hugely appealing to younger readers, even if it doesn't resonate with you. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Sufferedphoenix 03/23/24 8:48:01 AM #19:	cjsdowg posted... I believe it's valuable to find relatability in video game characters, but it's not necessary for everyone. However, I can't help but notice a trend among some players who claim they can't relate to CJ in GTA but somehow find Tommy and Claude more relatable. You can't relate to a guy who lost a family member , but you can relate to a mute psychopath and Scareface 2.0. So yeah I think something is up with that . However I think we can find something to relate to in most characters in general. Like sticking with GTA. I can relate to Franklin for wanting to be better. Driving a charger , and having an asshole friend that he really needs to dumb. And Micheal for wanting to have peace in his life but never getting. But then nothing about Hill Billy Psycho is relatable. .they might mean relatable more on a personality level. I can see edgelord teens thinking they relate to Tommy. --- I put my heart and soul into my work and I fear I have lost my mind in the process <cite>Sufferedphoenix posted [p:979519364] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>cjsdowg posted... </cite><quote>I believe it's valuable to find relatability in video game characters, but it's not necessary for everyone. However, I can't help but notice a trend among some players who claim they can't relate to CJ in GTA but somehow find Tommy and Claude more relatable. You can't relate to a guy who lost a family member , but you can relate to a mute psychopath and Scareface 2.0. So yeah I think something is up with that . However I think we can find something to relate to in most characters in general. Like sticking with GTA. I can relate to Franklin for wanting to be better. Driving a charger , and having an asshole friend that he really needs to dumb. And Micheal for wanting to have peace in his life but never getting. But then nothing about Hill Billy Psycho is relatable.</quote>.they might mean relatable more on a personality level. I can see edgelord teens thinking they relate to Tommy. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Prismsblade 03/23/24 9:17:54 AM #20:	It depends on the movies setting, a Japanese person growing up in the ghettos of Baltimore may not have the appeal to it as a black person in their place. Or for age demographics a adult being bullied in his workplace may not appeal to kids or maybe even teenagers. --- 3DS FC:3368-5403-9633 Name: Kaizer PSN: Blackkaizer <cite>Prismsblade posted [p:979519605] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>It depends on the movies setting, a Japanese person growing up in the ghettos of Baltimore may not have the appeal to it as a black person in their place.Or for age demographics a adult being bullied in his workplace may not appeal to kids or maybe even teenagers. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
cuttin_in_farm 03/23/24 9:22:10 AM #21:	Relatability is important to a degree. Its why if a story hinges heavily on one character, you run the risk of that character not being likable. And likability is easier if they are relatable. And a character without relatable struggles isnt much of a character at all. Im a black guy. But Disneys Mulan is very relatable to me because the idea that you dont fit into a group (specifically one based around masculinity) is something I relate to. Thus, I really like Mulan. People who can only relate to their own gender or race are, frankly, morons or arent thinking long enough. The second characters lose relatability, the story suffers. Just look at Mary Sues or the harem protags in anime. --- A show of kindness may not do much help, but a show of cruelty may do much harm. <cite>cuttin_in_farm posted [p:979519644] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Relatability is important to a degree. Its why if a story hinges heavily on one character, you run the risk of that character not being likable. And likability is easier if they are relatable. And a character without relatable struggles isnt much of a character at all. Im a black guy. But Disneys Mulan is very relatable to me because the idea that you dont fit into a group (specifically one based around masculinity) is something I relate to. Thus, I really like Mulan. People who can only relate to their own gender or race are, frankly, morons or arent thinking long enough. The second characters lose relatability, the story suffers. Just look at Mary Sues or the harem protags in anime. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Smackems 03/23/24 9:30:54 AM #22:	Why the fuck would I wanna play a game because the main character is as boring as I am --- Common sense says it may not taste good, but it'll make a turd. <cite>Smackems posted [p:979519717] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Why the fuck would I wanna play a game because the main character is as boring as I am </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Kamen_Rider_Blade 03/23/24 9:39:17 AM #23:	Itachi157 posted... I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story. --- Are you a MexiCAN or a MexiCAN'T - Johnny Depp '*Once Upon A Time in Mexico*' <cite>Kamen_Rider_Blade posted [p:979519808] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Itachi157 posted... </cite><quote>I don't care at all about it, as long as it's an entertaining story.</quote> </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
LeCh0nk 03/23/24 9:41:23 AM #24:	IMO the worst thing an author can do is try to make a character "relatable." A character should be written how the author sees them, and if they so happen to be relatable, that's great. In a well rounded story, most readers should identify with at least one character, I think. And relatability should always be based on upbringing and personality, not have anything to do with race or religion. I, as a brown man, can relate to a white character. And a white person should be able to relate to a non-white person. --- @('_')@ <cite>LeCh0nk posted [p:979519834] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>IMO the worst thing an author can do is try to make a character "relatable." A character should be written how the author sees them, and if they so happen to be relatable, that's great. In a well rounded story, most readers should identify with at least one character, I think.And relatability should always be based on upbringing and personality, not have anything to do with race or religion. I, as a brown man, can relate to a white character. And a white person should be able to relate to a non-white person. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
GranAures 03/23/24 9:46:42 AM #25:	It's nice but not required. Course, I largely play jrpgs so like hell I'm relating to anybody. Larry not withstanding. --- Just because I have 99% of a heart doesn't mean it can't kill me. It's tried. Twice. My body has a dongle and my heart doesn't care. He/They <cite>GranAures posted [p:979519899] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>It's nice but not required. Course, I largely play jrpgs so like hell I'm relating to anybody.Larry not withstanding. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Kim_Seong-a 03/23/24 9:46:48 AM #26:	Relatability to me largely depends on how much I feel I can empathize with the character's actions and choices. I'm not a chubby, middle-aged Korean mother living in Japan close to the World Wars, but I was hella invested in Pachinko. >_> --- Lusa Cfaad Taydr <cite>Kim_Seong-a posted [p:979519900] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Relatability to me largely depends on how much I feel I can empathize with the character's actions and choices.I'm not a chubby, middle-aged Korean mother living in Japan close to the World Wars, but I was hella invested in Pachinko. >_> </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Sansoldier 03/23/24 9:51:48 AM #27:	That's an interesting question. I guess I don't notice when it's there, but do when it's not there or deviates too much. I don't care that much about relatability in terms of enjoyment, though. --- http://www.youtube.com/user/san3711 <cite>Sansoldier posted [p:979519960] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>That's an interesting question. I guess I don't notice when it's there, but do when it's not there or deviates too much. I don't care that much about relatability in terms of enjoyment, though. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
cjsdowg 03/23/24 10:07:26 AM #28:	Thinking about it more I don't think the people tc was talking about have a relatableity issue. It isbjust empathy they don't have for characters who don't look like them. --- If you say I am wrong, then prove that you are right. <cite>cjsdowg posted [p:979520134] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Thinking about it more I don't think the people tc was talking about have a relatableity issue. It isbjust empathy they don't have for characters who don't look like them. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
lolife67 03/23/24 10:11:16 AM #29:	Relatability can be important but not as much as representation. <cite>lolife67 posted [p:979520186] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Relatability can be important but not as much as representation.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Philip027 03/23/24 10:18:05 AM #30:	A lot. If nobody prominent in the story feels relatable (most likely, it's because everyone in the story is an asshole in some way), I usually end up going down the Eight Deadly Words route. Also for me this is all about behavior and demeanor; I couldn't care less about what they look like or what their ethnicity is or whatever. <cite>Philip027 posted [p:979520242] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>A lot. If nobody prominent in the story feels relatable (most likely, it's because everyone in the story is an asshole in some way), I usually end up going down the Eight Deadly Words route.Also for me this is all about behavior and demeanor; I couldn't care less about what they look like or what their ethnicity is or whatever.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
bigblu89 03/23/24 10:20:27 AM #31:	Its kinda a case by case basis for me. Like, I played through Spider-Man 2 and still enjoyed playing as Miles despite being a 46 year old playing a Black/Puerto Rican teenager. But (and I get a ton of shit for it, but whatever) I tend to not find a lot of female comics funny, especially ones that do a lot of relationship/dating humor, because Ive never experienced what its like being a single female in the dating scene. --- It takes zero effort to be a good person. <cite>bigblu89 posted [p:979520263] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Its kinda a case by case basis for me. Like, I played through Spider-Man 2 and still enjoyed playing as Miles despite being a 46 year old playing a Black/Puerto Rican teenager. But (and I get a ton of shit for it, but whatever) I tend to not find a lot of female comics funny, especially ones that do a lot of relationship/dating humor, because Ive never experienced what its like being a single female in the dating scene. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
KeeperOfShadows 03/23/24 10:27:55 AM #32:	Not often, but it can enhance a character's appeal if I can connect with them on some level. Primarily when it comes to personality. I've never been one to care if a character looks similar to me or comes from a similar background, but I love characters who share my sense of humor. --- Currently playing: HonkaiStarRail, Genshin Impact RIP DFFOO ;_; <cite>KeeperOfShadows posted [p:979520351] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Not often, but it can enhance a character's appeal if I can connect with them on some level. Primarily when it comes to personality. I've never been one to care if a character looks similar to me or comes from a similar background, but I love characters who share my sense of humor. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
super_felicia 03/23/24 10:37:20 AM #33:	Alear from engage is cool. I don't have one for one experience obviously but I seen some of their plot and I was like I feel like if I was in a dramatised fantasy world I could be like them to an extent. Their actions and behaviour reactions resonate. Adopted by a loving person (she is my dad's mum but I was about to be adopted into a care home until she decided against it) Alear feels bad but pissed at their dad they have done bad things for selfish reasons they hate him and says he has done everything the wrong way but they wish they weren't like that but they have to fight. They talk casually and don't want to be seen as anything special cos of their situation. (I am humble by nature so I kinda see it whenever I do a good thing I somewhat want recognition and praise depending but I dont want ridiculous "your amazing wowwwww!" Compliments. Their humour is good and have a playful dorky side (zelkov support came to mind) Deeply want to please who they meet and care about There is way more but I'll stop you get the point I'm saying --- I am a mess and Felicia is the cleaner.... <cite>super_felicia posted [p:979520451] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Alear from engage is cool. I don't have one for one experience obviously but I seen some of their plot and I was like I feel like if I was in a dramatised fantasy world I could be like them to an extent. Their actions and behaviour reactions resonate.Adopted by a loving person (she is my dad's mum but I was about to be adopted into a care home until she decided against it)Alear feels bad but pissed at their dad they have done bad things for selfish reasons they hate him and says he has done everything the wrong way but they wish they weren't like that but they have to fight. They talk casually and don't want to be seen as anything special cos of their situation. (I am humble by nature so I kinda see it whenever I do a good thing I somewhat want recognition and praise depending but I dont want ridiculous "your amazing wowwwww!" Compliments.Their humour is good and have a playful dorky side (zelkov support came to mind)Deeply want to please who they meet and care about There is way more but I'll stop you get the point I'm saying </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
ai123 03/23/24 10:40:44 AM #34:	LeCh0nk posted... IMO the worst thing an author can do is try to make a character "relatable." A character should be written how the author sees them, and if they so happen to be relatable, that's great. In a well rounded story, most readers should identify with at least one character, I think. All character creation comes from an author trying to achieve certain effects and making the reader feel the way they want them to. How successful they are, and how far the reader is aware of the mechanics involved, comes down to the skill and technique of the author. If you're thinking 'that character is naturally relatable, and not forced', it's because of the craftsmanship and refinement of the author. Not because it just 'is' organically. --- 'Vinyl is the poor man's art collection'. <cite>ai123 posted [p:979520489] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>LeCh0nk posted... </cite><quote>IMO the worst thing an author can do is try to make a character "relatable." A character should be written how the author sees them, and if they so happen to be relatable, that's great. In a well rounded story, most readers should identify with at least one character, I think.</quote>All character creation comes from an author trying to achieve certain effects and making the reader feel the way they want them to.How successful they are, and how far the reader is aware of the mechanics involved, comes down to the skill and technique of the author.If you're thinking 'that character is naturally relatable, and not forced', it's because of the craftsmanship and refinement of the author. Not because it just 'is' organically. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Sufferedphoenix 03/23/24 10:42:41 AM #35:	Smackems posted... Why the fuck would I wanna play a game because the main character is as boring as I am Iinks pretty popular. His only personality traits that's known is he's courageous. --- I put my heart and soul into my work and I fear I have lost my mind in the process <cite>Sufferedphoenix posted [p:979520507] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Smackems posted... </cite><quote>Why the fuck would I wanna play a game because the main character is as boring as I am</quote>Iinks pretty popular. His only personality traits that's known is he's courageous. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
MangaBroski 03/23/24 10:43:34 AM #36:	I consume fictional media, so concepts like national or racial identity, gender, and sexuality are not things that make a character more or less relatable to me. However, behaviors that could be reflective of certain subcultures are certain things that drive me from understanding the characters behaviors. Fwiw, these are almost certainly factors that I would think a real-life person adhering to the tenets or customs of was strange unless I was told it was hard-coded into their society. Im talking about behaviors like the characters of HBOs Girls (although its entirely possible the characters of that show were supposed to be hated and not necessarily viewed as relatable). <cite>MangaBroski posted [p:979520516] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>I consume fictional media, so concepts like national or racial identity, gender, and sexuality are not things that make a character more or less relatable to me.However, behaviors that could be reflective of certain subcultures are certain things that drive me from understanding the characters behaviors. Fwiw, these are almost certainly factors that I would think a real-life person adhering to the tenets or customs of was strange unless I was told it was hard-coded into their society. Im talking about behaviors like the characters of HBOs Girls (although its entirely possible the characters of that show were supposed to be hated and not necessarily viewed as relatable).</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
FortuneCookie 03/23/24 11:46:14 AM #37:	ai123 posted... A huge part of Harry Potter's appeal is relatability/wish fulfillment. The quiet, nerdy kid who doesn't fit in turns out to be the powerful, heroic wizard! (While still being a schoolkid like you). Relatability is engaging with fiction at the most basic level ('I like reading stuff about people like me'), but its importance in shifting units cannot be underestimated. I would argue that Harry Potter is more about Hermione Granger. She's the only one who comes from our world, and the only one born to normal parents, whereas the boys are both magic-born kids from a magical alternate universe version of the UK. The way her character is written, Hermione's story is a self-insert fantasy about an over-achieving student who grows up to fall in love with the big handsome football hero. She's not meant to be cute. She's played by the girl who grows up to be Emma Watson, but the dialogue still acts as if she's this little scarecrow that the handsome jock hero is embarrassed to admit that he might have feelings for. (It's worth noting that J.K. Rowling went on the record to criticize the actors chosen for being too cute when compared with their novel counterparts.) Harry is just kind of a plot device. He's a super-innocent, mistreated orphan. One day, he's invited back to the magic world that he was born into. There's a big mystery about where his scar came from and how he survived an attempt on his life when he was an infant. He never really gets a lot of personal character development aside from the mandatory falling out with his best friend or his quest for foster family. That's probably why Harry Potter did nothing for Daniel Radcliffe's acting career outside of the series. It's a lot like The Shawshank Redemption and Tim Robbins. Morgan Freeman's Red is the real star of the movie. <cite>FortuneCookie posted [p:979521272] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>ai123 posted... </cite><quote>A huge part of Harry Potter's appeal is relatability/wish fulfillment.The quiet, nerdy kid who doesn't fit in turns out to be the powerful, heroic wizard! (While still being a schoolkid like you).Relatability is engaging with fiction at the most basic level ('I like reading stuff about people like me'), but its importance in shifting units cannot be underestimated.</quote>I would argue that Harry Potter is more about Hermione Granger. She's the only one who comes from our world, and the only one born to normal parents, whereas the boys are both magic-born kids from a magical alternate universe version of the UK.The way her character is written, Hermione's story is a self-insert fantasy about an over-achieving student who grows up to fall in love with the big handsome football hero. She's not meant to be cute. She's played by the girl who grows up to be Emma Watson, but the dialogue still acts as if she's this little scarecrow that the handsome jock hero is embarrassed to admit that he might have feelings for. (It's worth noting that J.K. Rowling went on the record to criticize the actors chosen for being too cute when compared with their novel counterparts.)Harry is just kind of a plot device. He's a super-innocent, mistreated orphan. One day, he's invited back to the magic world that he was born into. There's a big mystery about where his scar came from and how he survived an attempt on his life when he was an infant. He never really gets a lot of personal character development aside from the mandatory falling out with his best friend or his quest for foster family.That's probably why Harry Potter did nothing for Daniel Radcliffe's acting career outside of the series. It's a lot like The Shawshank Redemption and Tim Robbins. Morgan Freeman's Red is the real star of the movie.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
FortuneCookie 03/23/24 11:47:00 AM #38:	Personal fantasy is a part of the Harry Potter universe, but more in a "This could happen to you" kind of a way than a "This character is you" sort of way. You'll never discover that your parents are deceased great wizards from another world, but you might get a letter from Hogwarts if you have the potential for magic. Visiting the Universal Studios theme parks, it's really something to see dedicated fans walking around in Hogwarts graduation robes on hot Florida summer days. <cite>FortuneCookie posted [p:979521285] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Personal fantasy is a part of the Harry Potter universe, but more in a "This could happen to you" kind of a way than a "This character is you" sort of way. You'll never discover that your parents are deceased great wizards from another world, but you might get a letter from Hogwarts if you have the potential for magic.Visiting the Universal Studios theme parks, it's really something to see dedicated fans walking around in Hogwarts graduation robes on hot Florida summer days.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
ai123 03/23/24 12:04:38 PM #39:	FortuneCookie posted... I would argue that Harry Potter is more about Hermione Granger. She's the only one who comes from our world, and the only one born to normal parents, whereas the boys are both magic-born kids from a magical alternate universe version of the UK. Harry is the titular hero, but there's no rule saying you can't have a female relatable/wish fulfillment character as well. The way her character is written, Hermione's story is a self-insert fantasy about an over-achieving student who grows up to fall in love with the big handsome football hero. She's not meant to be cute. She's played by the girl who grows up to be Emma Watson, but the dialogue still acts as if she's this little scarecrow that the handsome jock hero is embarrassed to admit that he might have feelings for. (It's worth noting that J.K. Rowling went on the record to criticize the actors chosen for being too cute when compared with their novel counterparts.) Harry is just kind of a plot device. He's a super-innocent, mistreated orphan. One day, he's invited back to the magic world that he was born into. There's a big mystery about where his scar came from and how he survived an attempt on his life when he was an infant. He never really gets a lot of personal character development aside from the mandatory falling out with his best friend or his quest for foster family. Relatable/wish fulfillment characters don't need to be that complex or well developed. That's probably why Harry Potter did nothing for Daniel Radcliffe's acting career outside of the series. It's a lot like The Shawshank Redemption and Tim Robbins. Morgan Freeman's Red is the real star of the movie. I don't get this at all. Radcliffe has had a stellar career post Harry Potter with numerous starring roles. For someone who is not a leading man type, he gets a lot of 'prestige' work. Without Harry Potter, he would not have had any of that. The most you can say is that he picks quirky indie films over blockbusters. --- 'Vinyl is the poor man's art collection'. <cite>ai123 posted [p:979521536] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>FortuneCookie posted... </cite><quote>I would argue that Harry Potter is more about Hermione Granger. She's the only one who comes from our world, and the only one born to normal parents, whereas the boys are both magic-born kids from a magical alternate universe version of the UK.</quote>Harry is the titular hero, but there's no rule saying you can't have a female relatable/wish fulfillment character as well.<quote>The way her character is written, Hermione's story is a self-insert fantasy about an over-achieving student who grows up to fall in love with the big handsome football hero. She's not meant to be cute. She's played by the girl who grows up to be Emma Watson, but the dialogue still acts as if she's this little scarecrow that the handsome jock hero is embarrassed to admit that he might have feelings for. (It's worth noting that J.K. Rowling went on the record to criticize the actors chosen for being too cute when compared with their novel counterparts.)Harry is just kind of a plot device. He's a super-innocent, mistreated orphan. One day, he's invited back to the magic world that he was born into. There's a big mystery about where his scar came from and how he survived an attempt on his life when he was an infant. He never really gets a lot of personal character development aside from the mandatory falling out with his best friend or his quest for foster family.</quote>Relatable/wish fulfillment characters don't need to be that complex or well developed.<quote>That's probably why Harry Potter did nothing for Daniel Radcliffe's acting career outside of the series. It's a lot like The Shawshank Redemption and Tim Robbins. Morgan Freeman's Red is the real star of the movie.</quote>I don't get this at all. Radcliffe has had a stellar career post Harry Potter with numerous starring roles. For someone who is not a leading man type, he gets a lot of 'prestige' work. Without Harry Potter, he would not have had any of that. The most you can say is that he picks quirky indie films over blockbusters. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
MistyKnight 03/23/24 12:50:34 PM #40:	I'd rather see stories by and about people that don't look like me as that's been done to death since the beginning of time. --- friend find, look behind <cite>MistyKnight posted [p:979522202] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>I'd rather see stories by and about people that don't look like me as that's been done to death since the beginning of time. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
MangaBroski 03/23/24 12:55:27 PM #41:	MistyKnight posted... I'd rather see stories by and about people that don't look like me as that's been done to death since the beginning of time. This is probably why I dislike humans as the default protagonists in fantasy series where other races exist. <cite>MangaBroski posted [p:979522254] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>MistyKnight posted... </cite><quote>I'd rather see stories by and about people that don't look like me as that's been done to death since the beginning of time.</quote>This is probably why I dislike humans as the default protagonists in fantasy series where other races exist.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
RetuenOfDevsman 03/23/24 12:58:23 PM #42:	It's one of those things where it can be a plus sometimes but it's never an expectation. There are plenty of great characters where not being relatable is the point. Like Superman, where the idea is that he's supposed to inspire you. <cite>RetuenOfDevsman posted [p:979522294] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>It's one of those things where it can be a plus sometimes but it's never an expectation. There are plenty of great characters where not being relatable is the point. Like Superman, where the idea is that he's supposed to inspire you.</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Dark_Arbron 03/24/24 4:17:03 AM #43:	Sufferedphoenix posted... Iinks pretty popular. His only personality traits that's known is he's courageous. This probably isnt fair but the best portrayal of Link Ive ever seen is a realistically jaded and cynical one. That doesnt mean much without further context though. --- "How is that a religious topic? That's just me talking about GOD." -Frostmourne <cite>Dark_Arbron posted [p:979533833] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Sufferedphoenix posted... </cite><quote>Iinks pretty popular. His only personality traits that's known is he's courageous.</quote>This probably isnt fair but the best portrayal of Link Ive ever seen is a realistically jaded and cynical one. That doesnt mean much without further context though. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Sufferedphoenix 03/24/24 5:50:29 AM #44:	Dark_Arbron posted... This probably isnt fair but the best portrayal of Link Ive ever seen is a realistically jaded and cynical one. That doesnt mean much without further context though. What game was he cynical in? --- I put my heart and soul into my work and I fear I have lost my mind in the process <cite>Sufferedphoenix posted [p:979534288] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Dark_Arbron posted... </cite><quote>This probably isnt fair but the best portrayal of Link Ive ever seen is a realistically jaded and cynical one. That doesnt mean much without further context though.</quote>What game was he cynical in? </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
The_Korey 03/24/24 6:51:47 AM #45:	Not sure. On one hand, who kares what race/gender/sexuality the protag is. Thier motivation is to help a loved one, remove a vile being from a position of power, finally be free, get rich/famous, spark a romance, or do the right thing because they're the only one who kan/kares. Extremely relatable, or at the very least, understandable koncepts regarless of whether the MC is an Amazonian hardass, radioactive porcupine, or Straight White Steve from Accounting. So it's hard to shrug off relatability when the vast majority have been relatable in some form or other. But on the other, it's not like I kan't get into stories featuring characters who are evil just for the sake of it, passionate about weird/stupid/childish shit, or are either beyond my understanding or undeveloped blank slates. The worse you kan do is be inconsistant or be annoying to the point that I don't even kare who survives this disaster/horror, imo. --- Philosophy major in the academy of Nope. <cite>The_Korey posted [p:979534597] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Not sure. On one hand, who kares what race/gender/sexuality the protag is. Thier motivation is to help a loved one, remove a vile being from a position of power, finally be free, get rich/famous, spark a romance, or do the right thing because they're the only one who kan/kares. Extremely relatable, or at the very least, understandable koncepts regarless of whether the MC is an Amazonian hardass, radioactive porcupine, or Straight White Steve from Accounting. So it's hard to shrug off relatability when the vast majority have been relatable in some form or other.But on the other, it's not like I kan't get into stories featuring characters who are evil just for the sake of it, passionate about weird/stupid/childish shit, or are either beyond my understanding or undeveloped blank slates. The worse you kan do is be inconsistant or be annoying to the point that I don't even kare who survives this disaster/horror, imo. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Torgo 03/24/24 7:00:49 AM #46:	EDF-5 posted... I agree with what you wrote and don't have much to add other than 'as long as it's not forced relatability' I love that and forced diversity, as opposed to a particular audience demanding all white heroes in traditional gender roles not seeing that as forced conformity. --- Aren't we all just a series of tubes? <cite>Torgo posted [p:979534636] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>EDF-5 posted... </cite><quote>I agree with what you wrote and don't have much to add other than 'as long as it's not forced relatability'</quote>I love that and forced diversity, as opposed to a particular audience demanding all white heroes in traditional gender roles not seeing that as forced conformity. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
party_animal07 03/24/24 7:05:45 AM #47:	It's not necessary at all, but is appreciated when done right. For instance, you don't have to be black to enjoy "Get Out", but there are some uniquely black experiences that make the film more enjoyable. --- https://warpzone.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/GRANDIA_-696x509.jpg <cite>party_animal07 posted [p:979534675] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>It's not necessary at all, but is appreciated when done right. For instance, you don't have to be black to enjoy "Get Out", but there are some uniquely black experiences that make the film more enjoyable. </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
Torgo 03/24/24 7:11:00 AM #48:	OKAY: "Dude, did you see where that traditionally masculine hetero white male hero punched that fifteen foot tall nuclear cyborg back to his home galaxy! That was bad ass!" NOT OKAY: "I can't believe that they had a woman with superpowers beat up a man... who must have been forty or fifty pounds heavier, no way that could ever happen. Forced diversity!! forced feminism!!" --- Aren't we all just a series of tubes? <cite>Torgo posted [p:979534695] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>OKAY:"Dude, did you see where that traditionally masculine hetero white male hero punched that fifteen foot tall nuclear cyborg back to his home galaxy! That was bad ass!"NOT OKAY:"I can't believe that they had a woman with superpowers beat up a man... who must have been forty or fifty pounds heavier, no way that could ever happen. Forced diversity!! forced feminism!!" </quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
FortuneCookie 03/24/24 11:23:41 AM #49:	Who in this topic said that? <cite>FortuneCookie posted [p:979536962] in How often ... [t:80728415]...</cite> <quote>Who in this topic said that?</quote> ... Copied to Clipboard!
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Current Events > How often does relatability factor into storytelling for you? (+) Yeah! (+)

Current Events > How often does relatability factor into storytelling for you?