Summary of the Core Content
This article focuses on the conflicts between female-oriented romance game (Yoyo) players and the manufacturers, using two instances of player activism in "Love and Deep Space" (the "Corroding King" card promotion not matching the actual game content and the addition of a sixth male character sparking protests) as examples. It also discusses similar issues in other Yoyo games such as "Code Name鸢" and "Mithus' Seal," revealing the emotional struggles of these players: they invest genuine feelings into their virtual characters, only to realize that these characters are merely commodities for manufacturers to make money from. During activism, player communities split due to differing opinions (for instance, whether stopping in-game purchases harms the characters). In the end, some players choose to uninstall the games and turn to other forms of emotional fulfillment, such as single-player games, BJD (Bent-Jointed Dolls), or AI partners, although these alternatives still carry the risk of being dependent on specific platforms.
Detailed Analysis
1. Yoyo Player Activism: More Than Just "Anti-Capitalism" – It's a Crisis of "Emotional Betrayal"
The root of player activism in Yoyo games is not just dissatisfaction with manufacturers making money; it's about a sense of emotional betrayal. For example, the addition of a sixth male character in "Love and Deep Space" was seen as unfair, akin to a boyfriend bringing a stranger home to share resources, reducing the chances of obtaining favorite characters through grinding and distracting from the main storyline. Players felt deceived since the manufacturer had promised not to add new characters. Another issue was the "Corroding King" card, which promised impressive skills in promotional videos but proved to be weaker in the actual game, leading players to believe they had been cheated. This anger stems from treating virtual characters as true partners, only for manufacturers to treat them as profit-making tools, creating a significant psychological gap.
2. Community Divisions: Activism Turns into Infighting
During activism, player communities can become highly divided. In the "Corroding King" case, some argued that stopping purchases would harm the character's value, implying players didn't care about them; others criticized the activists for not having invested enough money and thus not representing the majority of paying players. Some even engaged in online bullying against the activists. A typical example is Xiao Yang, who initially helped collect evidence and advocate for rational activism but eventually left the group after seeing friends being targeted. This division is similar to fan communities, where fans treat their favorite characters as idols and attack each other when their commercial value is at stake.
3. The "Healing Power" of Yoyo Games: Why Do Players Invest So Much Emotion in Virtual Characters?
For many players, Yoyo games serve as a remedy for real-life emotional shortcomings. For instance, Huo Xiang, who experienced domestic violence and distrusts men, found comfort in the game's character Qin Che, who encouraged her to learn boxing. These characters provide a sense of security and respect, even healing her psychological wounds. Another player noted that Yoyo games teach players to love themselves, as male characters often affirm their worthiness. When manufacturers undermine this sense of care, it causes significant distress.
4. Post-Uninstallation Options: Players Seek More Controllable Forms of Emotional Expression
After uninstalling Yoyo games, players seek alternative ways to express their emotions that are not controlled by manufacturers:
- Single-player Games: Lai Yaqin played "Fate Echo," which offered a complete storyline for 35 yuan without the need for grinding or spending. She called it a genuine game, not an emotional product.
- BJD Dolls: Huo Xiang commissioned a BJD doll of Qin Che, saying, "With this doll, my Qin Che is truly mine."
- AI Partners: Xia Yue created an AI partner through coding, which could name itself, joke with her, and show concern. She felt more in control since the character's fate was not in the manufacturer's hands.
5. The Challenges of Virtual Emotions: Are These Alternatives Truly Independent?
Even with these alternatives, players still face risks:
- AI Partners: Xia Yue's AI depends on a company that could cease operations or change its policies, potentially losing her virtual partner.
- BJD Dolls: While physical, they are expensive and non-interactive.
- Single-player Games: The stories are fixed, lacking interactive elements. Lai Yaqin worried about potential advertising in AI-powered games.
Conclusion
The stories of Yoyo players reflect the search for emotional connection in modern society. We long for understanding and care but struggle to find it in reality, turning to virtual worlds. However, even these virtual spaces are governed by commercial interests. Players' struggles highlight the question: "Is there a form of emotion that provides warmth without being easily taken away?" For now, the answer remains elusive. Yet, at least they are learning to take control of their own emotional experiences—a significant step forward.