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Characterization in the CYOA World

Working in the second person point-of-view can be very tricky. The problem is, the author wants the reader to identify with the main character–after all, the use of “you” seems to imply that the story is about the reader. The author can go about this several different ways:



Featureless Protagonist – The main character usually does not have a name, does not speak, and is willing to do whatever the player wants him/her to do. This means relatively weak characterization for the protagonist, but it may be easier for the reader to identify with the character.

Customizable Character – The protagonist may start off as a blank slate of sorts, but the game puts in features that allow the hero to become any way the player wants. Choice of Games takes this to an extreme, allowing the choices to not just affect the main character’s skills, but also his/her language, appearance, and sexual orientation.

Established Neutral — The character has a name, gender, and some personality traits accounted for, but they’re relatively unoffensive. This is similar to the featureless protagonist in that it makes for weak characterization, but it also means that there is a separation between the character and the reader. This is the style of many choose-your-own-adventure books.

The Extremist — This person has a clearly dileneated personality at the beginning of the game, usually one that is fairly extreme. This might consist of one or two mannerisms, or a complete way of being that might seem very familiar, or very alien, to the player.

Fanfiction — Keep in mind that it is possible to create interactive fiction based on stories written already. This gives people a chance to embody the characters they know and love, as well as easing characterization.

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