Think back to a moment in a game that truly resonated with you. Chances are, it involved a character you found relatable—someone who felt authentic, emotionally engaging, and whose journey connected with your own experiences on a deeper level.
Take The Last of Us, for example. Joel and Ellie’s relationship is a masterclass in relatable character design, driven by authenticity and emotional depth that leaves a lasting impact. Even though their specific circumstances are fictional, their struggles, motivations, and evolving dynamic reflect real human complexity, making their story unforgettable.
But what makes a character relatable?
Relatability, simply put, is “the quality of being easy to understand or feel sympathy for.” Achieving this in games enhances engagement, deepens immersion, and ultimately creates a more meaningful player experience that resonates long after the credits roll. Relatability isn’t a surface-level trait—it’s woven into the fabric of the game through intentional design choices, so consider the following before and during your design process: