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For a lot of us, games supply the feeling and the emotion of conquering problems. Franchises like Grand Theft Auto and The Legend of Zelda have an explorative progression, providing escapism just like movies, books, art, vacations, and even cartoons.
So, what happens when a game or movie features the feeling of loneliness? Most titles that take this approach are more survival horror in nature, and that, for me, takes away from the notion of being truly on your own. Yes, you are by yourself, but somehow, you come into contact with other survivors. That brings more relief, which destroys the implied purpose.
See, loneliness isn’t about being solitary in an environment and looking for someone or something. It’s a mindset that can fill you with defeat. Knowing that, the stories we take our characters through in a game could force us into a state of loneliness.
Silent Hill might evoke fear, but the fact that you’re not alone ruins the tension. Since that experience is more of a ghost story with determined answers and plot twists, loneliness does not exist. Even with the upcoming The Last Of Us, you have a partner with you at times while you try to escape and survive. I believe the title will pull off some cliché moments because it will probably omit the being-solo component.
Shadow of the Colossus could have implemented loneliness correctly, but the game’s main premise is the reason it didn’t. You’re supposed to save someone. What if your purpose was to cause the colossi to feel alone? If you filled their minds with defeat, would that make you the shadow? Could that change how you play the game from a moral perspective?
Do any of your favorite releases provide a sense of loneliness? If so, which ones?