[Last modified: November, 20 2024 06:41 PM]
Reflection on the political dimension is indispensable when exploring the research project Black Myth: Goku. The cultural representation of the game involves not only the construction of cultural identity but also a broader political context, especially in the context of globalisation and the increasing intertwining of digital media.
Firstly, the project design is embedded with an assumption of cultural transmission, and indeed this assumption carries a certain political stance. By examining how traditional Chinese culture is re-presented through the medium of video games, we can see the pursuit of cultural confidence as well as national identity. This position may reflect China’s intention to construct a positive image and voice in the global cultural market. Thus, the success of the game is not only a commercial victory, but also an expression of cultural soft power.
My own position has inevitably intertwined with these political factors in the course of my research. For example, as a researcher, I need to be sensitive to prevent bringing personal bias and cultural superiority into my research. In particular, when analysing the acceptance of Chinese culture by players from different cultural backgrounds, I need to be aware of possible cultural biases and misunderstandings. This requires me to keep an open mind in the interviews and analyses, and to encourage a plurality of voices so as to reduce the interference of personal positions. When conducting in-depth interviews, the focus should be on exploring the cultural backgrounds and political sensitivities of the participants to ensure that they are able to express their views on games and culture in a bias-free environment. In addition, participant observation should be conducted carefully to ensure that my understanding of the player community is comprehensive and objective enough to avoid misunderstandings due to limited context.