A less monstrous mirror : Creating empathetic, likeable, and accurate mentally ill characters in computer games

Abstract: This study is about possibilities for improving representation of mentally ill characters in roleplaying computer games. The areas of improvement are empathy for the characters by the players, enjoyment of the game by players, and more accurate depictions of mental illness in computer games. The qualitative study created three unique character concepts, each with two backstories/game concepts, and interviewed respondents on the three aforementioned areas. The research focused on common stereotypes held in modern society and the history of these embedded beliefs, as well as what mental illness really looks like and how negative stereotypes affect an audience. The research also covers current representation of mental illness in video games and analyses their depictions. The study concludes that stereotypes about mentally ill people are harmful, and that accurate and empathetic representations of mentally ill characters in video games should begin with detailed research and respect for the issue at hand.