That's not growth, that's a regression. That is trauma and suffering.

Nathan Drake is similarly presented as a hero, but requires a deep psychopathic disconnect from reality to exist as a character.

Everything is trauma and suffering. But with those comes perseverance. Perseverance requires strength, and survivor trilogy Lara Croft finds out how strong she is. That's growth.

I would not call her "pathetic" by any means

Knowing your audience is the most important step in serving them content they want.

I think you are saying something fundamentally different than the parent comment.

I think they are saying 'make something that appeals specifically to you as the creator, and it will resonate with some people out there'.

I personally agree that this seems top result in works I enjoy. (As evidenced by behind-the-scenes content or interviews with creators espousing a similar philosophy.)

I think my advice still follows. If you're making a game for yourself, then it's best to know and understand yourself. There's often a difference between what people think they want and what will actually bring them joy.

If you interact with other humans then you are participating in politics.

Why are you guys so concerned with these people?

Let them live their lives. I guarantee you they are not dying alone or whatever mortal curse you wish to invoke.

I'm not, was just responding to the apparent frustration and finding people who want expensive dinners dates. If that's not your thing, great, there are people out there who would love a coffee and a walk or whatever. I'm one of them. A formal dinner on a first date sounds awful to my slightly shy and introverted self. I'd much rather go hiking or something.

I don’t think they were talking about you

I'm not concerned with them - I'm just explaining why dating apps suck.

I'm also not casting a curse on anyone, you misunderstood. I'm not saying I'm better than them so this doesn't happen to me. No, it also happens to me.

Because this is by design. This is systemic. The apps are designed in such a way to make your expectations unrealistic and thereby perpetually let you down, because that's how you continue to use the app!

What does AI have to do with it?

That's how hierarchies work. It's an circumstantial constraint. Some people just keep trying to make hierarchies permanent for whatever reason.

Really?

What do you mean "how"?

You live it. This is basic shit.

You refuse to be in denial about your personal fears?