10 Disastrous Redesigns That Ruined Iconic Video Game Characters
1. Raiden (Metal Gear Solid IV)
Relatability is important in a protagonist.
In fact, it might be the single most important thing to consider when writing characters, especially when the story revolves around them significantly. In MGSII, the world was introduced to a brand new hero, a generic yet relatable operative tasked with infiltrating a marine decontamination facility. His name, Raiden.
Raiden was despised. In fairness, MGS 2 was not the best written entry in the franchise – relying too heavily on pointless dialogue, as well as countless incomprehensible plot twists – but the purpose of the character was clear. Raiden was about immersion, helping to bring players into the universe, which is why he was written purposely to be featureless. He’s like a conduit, a blank slate, serving as a means by which players can insert themselves into the story.
Over the years – clearly frustrated by the reception to Raiden – Hideo Kojima has developed upon the character, turning him into a ninja, then a cyborg, desperately hoping to win people over.
As such, I’d argue that Raiden has become an exhausted concept. He’s so overwritten it’s actually ridiculous. He’s the Professor Gadget of Metal Gear Solid. What’s next? The ability to transform into a rocket ship, or shoot toothpaste from his fingers?
In short. He’s not cool. He was never meant to be cool. Stop trying to make him cool.
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Which other overhauls completely failed? Let us know in the comments!