I wonder if it’s possible to appreciate a character too much to the point where what you like about them isn’t who they actually are. And by not appreciating them for who they actually are, you’re not actually appreciating them. Kind of speaks to a larger conversation about artist’s intent versus audience perception, and the nature of love in general. If you truly love somebody, do you try to make them into whatever you want, or do you accept them for who they are?
Very fascinating discussion to me. Reminds me of how some fans want Cloud and Aerith to be this idealized, Disney-like hyper romantic couple when the whole point of that pairing’s direction was that it isn’t what it seems to be and is instead tragic. Not that they couldn’t go in that direction to appease fans, but why? What does it add to the story?
In Jessie’s case, I like the idea of her now being alive but having never joined Avalanche, working at the Gold Saucer instead but not remembering the crew when they recognize her (I think Maximilian Dood was where I got that idea). It could make for a bittersweet moment that really drives home the idea that things are different, but not necessarily better and could potentially be worse for her depending on what happens afterwards (like being gunned down in the crossfire when Dyne shoots up the Gold Saucer, which I just thought of right now).
I don’t think changing Jessie’s role so that she is more integral to the story and even letting her be a romantic option is more distasteful than say, letting Aerith survive just so that her and Cloud can be together, but I do get similar feelings of “just write your fanfiction and get over it already”.
Also still glad I no tweet from the sound of that.
Why not just remake the game with Jessie in Clouds slot, he's been main character guy forever give someone else a chance! No Vincent you had your shot, now is Jessie time!