Alter Ego or Established Hero: Character Selection in RPGs

Role-playing games (RPGs) have a magical ability to pull us into fantastical worlds, letting us live lives we could only dream of. At the heart of every RPG is the character we control. Whether you’re crafting a unique avatar from scratch or stepping into the boots of an established hero, the choice shapes how you experience the game. But which is better? Should you unleash your imagination to create a one-of-a-kind persona or embrace the depths of an existing character’s story? Let’s dive headfirst into the debate and explore what makes each approach tick.

Rolling the Dice: The Joy of Creating Your Own Character

There’s something special about starting from zero, staring at a blank canvas and knowing it’s yours to fill. Crafting your own character in an RPG isn’t just customization—it’s personal expression. You’re the mastermind of your digital alter ego. Want a rogue with a heart of gold? Or a mage with a sarcastic edge? It’s all up to you.

Games like Skyrim and Cyberpunk 2077 excel in giving players the freedom to design their protagonist. From hairstyles to tattoos, you can tweak every detail until it feels just right. But the thrill isn’t just skin-deep. The real magic happens when your decisions affect gameplay. Pickpocketing villagers, negotiating alliances, or choosing dialogue that fits your unique persona—it all becomes an extension of yourself.

The Freedom to Break the Rules

Let’s face it: life doesn’t always let us be who we want to be. But in an RPG, the sky’s the limit. You can defy stereotypes, challenge societal norms, and forge an identity far removed from your everyday self. It’s like being the star of your own fantasy novel, except you’re calling the shots.

When games let you dictate your moral compass, the stakes feel real. For instance, in Mass Effect, your Commander Shepard reflects your values—or lack thereof—depending on how you approach diplomacy or confrontation. Every decision leaves its mark, creating a character that’s uniquely yours.

Unpredictable Outcomes Make It Thrilling

Part of the fun of creating your character is seeing how your choices pan out. Will your overly ambitious warrior get in over their head? Or will your cunning bard charm their way out of a sticky situation? It’s like gambling in Vegas—you never quite know how things will turn out, and that’s part of the excitement.

Stepping Into the Shoes of a Legend

On the flip side, playing as an existing character has its own undeniable allure. These characters are often deeply embedded in the game’s lore, with personalities and backstories that enrich the narrative. Think of Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher or Aloy in Horizon Zero Dawn. These protagonists come with fully fleshed-out lives, ready for you to take the reins.

Living Their Stories

Let’s be honest—sometimes it’s refreshing to skip the self-reflection and dive straight into the action. Playing as an established character gives you instant immersion. The game sets the stage, and you simply follow the breadcrumbs of a beautifully crafted storyline.

Take The Last of Us. Controlling Joel or Ellie is like being handed the script to a blockbuster movie. You’re not just watching; you’re living it. The emotional weight of their struggles feels heavier because the characters are so well-defined. You know their pain, their triumphs, their regrets—it’s like walking in someone else’s shoes, but in the most vivid way imaginable.

Unraveling Layers

Pre-made characters often come with rich histories that unfold as the game progresses. These layers of depth add a cinematic quality to the gameplay. For example, in Red Dead Redemption 2, Arthur Morgan’s journey is filled with moments that tug at your heartstrings, challenge your morals, and make you question everything. The game’s writers have already done the heavy lifting, crafting a character arc that’s as gripping as it is memorable.

The Comfort of Familiarity

Another advantage of acting out an existing character is the comfort it provides. You’re not agonizing over choices or wondering if you’re “doing it right.” Instead, you’re free to enjoy the story, knowing it’s been meticulously designed to deliver an unforgettable experience. Plus, it’s like bonding with an old friend—you might not have created them, but you grow to care deeply about their fate.

The Dilemma: Creative Freedom vs. Narrative Depth

So, which is the better approach? Honestly, it’s like comparing apples to oranges. Both methods have their own charm, and the “best” choice often depends on what you’re looking for in a game.

If you’re craving freedom and self-expression, creating your own character is the way to go. It’s an open invitation to let your imagination run wild. But if you’re in the mood for a well-crafted narrative with a defined protagonist, stepping into an existing character’s shoes might be the perfect fit.

It’s also worth mentioning that some games offer a hybrid approach. Take Dragon Age: Inquisition, for example. While you create your character, you’re also tied to the larger story of the Inquisitor, complete with pre-defined relationships and objectives. It’s the best of both worlds, blending personal creativity with the depth of a pre-written narrative.

What Do Gamers Prefer?

Ask a group of gamers, and you’ll get a dozen different answers. Some players love the sandbox feel of creating their character. They’ll spend hours tweaking every detail, from the curve of a nose to the shade of armor. Others prefer the comfort of being handed a fully realized protagonist, ready to dive into the story without the burden of choice.

There’s also the matter of replay value. Custom characters often encourage multiple playthroughs, letting you experiment with different builds and personalities. Meanwhile, games with established protagonists often rely on emotional depth and storytelling to keep players engaged.

Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds?

At the end of the day, RPGs are all about living out epic adventures in worlds far removed from our own. Whether you’re crafting a unique hero or stepping into the shoes of an iconic character, the thrill of the journey is what truly matters. Ultimately, it's not solely about reaching the finish line—it's about the adventures, relationships, and challenges you encounter along the way.

So, the next time you boot up an RPG, think about what kind of experience you’re after. Want to write your own legend? Dive into a character creator and let your imagination run wild. Craving a gripping story that’ll tug at your heartstrings? Embrace the life of a pre-made hero and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.

Whichever path you choose, one thing’s for sure—RPGs are a playground for our dreams, giving us the chance to be anyone, go anywhere, and do anything. And honestly, isn’t that the real magic?