[Last modified: October, 22 2024 06:44 PM]
My research focuses on exploring intimacy within the “cosplay commissioned dating service,” a niche subculture that has emerged from the world of Otome gaming. I have personally experienced Otome games as a player for over a year, which has greatly influenced my approach to this research. Having been an active participant in the gaming community and closely following online discussions surrounding cosplay commissions, I developed a unique proximity to this subculture before formally embarking on this research project. This firsthand experience and immersion in the community have served as a kind of informal field pre-study, giving me valuable insights into this world.
When I first started playing Otome games, cosplay commissioned dating was just beginning to gain traction in China. Now, it has grown into a more popular and widespread phenomenon. Over time, I have observed its development and become familiar with some of the key patterns and behaviors associated with cos commissions. I also know several of the research subjects personally—players I met during my time as a gamer—allowing me to approach them with a deeper understanding of their motivations and mindset. Having once considered engaging in cosplay commissioned dating myself, I can empathize with participants in this service, which has enabled me to form a nuanced perspective of their experiences. I also have a strong grasp of the specialized terminology used within these cultural circles, which has allowed me to collect more accurate and authentic data during both observations and interviews.
However, despite my familiarity with the gaming world, I must acknowledge a gap in my firsthand experience with cosplay commissioning itself. Because I have not directly participated in this service, there is a possibility that my study may be influenced by certain preconceived notions shaped by online discussions and other secondhand sources. To mitigate this, I plan to actively participate in the cosplay commissioned dating service during my research, with the aim of gaining a more accurate and realistic understanding of the intimacy involved in these interactions. This immersive approach will allow me to move beyond preconceived ideas and engage more critically with the subject.
Given that this study focuses on intimate relationships, several ethical concerns arise. The issue of informed consent is especially crucial, as participants need to fully understand and agree to the nature of the research. Additionally, great care must be taken when formulating research questions to ensure they do not infringe on participants’ privacy or make them feel uncomfortable. Since cosplay commissioning remains a subcultural practice, if any photos or videos from commissioned cosplays are to be publicly shared—such as on social media platforms—explicit consent must be obtained from participants, especially when intimate interactions or emotional expressions are depicted. These ethical considerations will be central to maintaining the integrity of the research.