In a recent conversation about #TLOU2 , I realized something important. A lot of players get into a game and take on the role of the playable character: they feel they are them, and they are the ones making the actions in the game. []

This is true in some games that allow you to be the character, and make choices according to what YOU wanna be in the game. Skyrim, Mass Effect, and other RPG games come to mind as an example.

Now, this is problematic, to say the least, in some games like #TLOU2 . Games like this, like books, do not offer you choice, but an experience. You are going to experience what these characters experience, whether you like it or not. Almost no agency.

In games like these, it's hard to BE the character. It is problematic, and conflicting. However, these kinds of games also give you that bookish sensation of feeling things you wouldn't be able to feel in real life unless you do some very dangerous stuff.

So, in conclusion, don't try to be Ellie or Abby. Try to understand yourself as an active reader inside them. You have an amazing opportunity to see a horrible apocalyptic world without being in it. It is certainly an experience! And if you really wanna BE the character...

...get a different game. This game might not be for you.