Why is Sumeru Problematic?
Sumeru, the latest region added to the world of Genshin Impact, has been the topic of much controversy and debate among the game’s community. Critics have pointed out several problematic aspects of the region, which have led to backlash and disappointment among fans. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Sumeru is seen as problematic and what elements of the region have triggered such a strong reaction.
Lack of BIPOC Representation
One of the primary concerns raised by fans is the absence of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) playable characters in Sumeru. The region is largely inspired by Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, which is a significant departure from the game’s previous Japanese-inspired settings. However, the lack of representation and diversity in the playable cast has been met with dismay, with many fans arguing that it is a step backward for the game’s representation.
Whitewashing and Colorism
The issue of representation is further compounded by concerns of whitewashing and colorism. The leaks of Sumeru characters have shown a predominantly White or light-skinned complexion, which has led many to accuse the game developers of perpetuating harmful colorist attitudes. This perpetuation of light-skinned beauty standards can have long-lasting and damaging effects on players of color, perpetuating harmful beauty standards.
Lack of Explanation for Rukkhadevata’s Erasure
Another issue that has sparked controversy is the manner in which Rukkhadevata, an important figure in Sumeru’s lore, is erased from existence. According to the game’s narrative, Nahida, an Archon, erases Rukkhadevata from the timeline. However, there is a lack of explanation for why this erasure occurred or what the implications are for the world of Teyvat. This lack of clarity has led to a sense of disconnection from the game’s lore and a feeling that important parts of the story are missing.
Questionable Canon
The introduction of new characters and plotlines has also raised questions about the game’s canon. Certain events and character backstories seem to contradict previous content, leading to confusion among fans. This lack of clarity and consistency has contributed to a sense of disconnect and frustration among players who are invested in the game’s story.
Social Media Backlash
The controversy surrounding Sumeru has also played out on social media, with many fans expressing their disappointment and frustration through Twitter, YouTube, and other platforms. The hashtag #SumeruProblems has trended on Twitter, and many fans have shared their grievances and concerns about the new region.
Table: Broken Promises
| Element | Broken Promise |
|---|---|
| Representation | Lack of BIPOC playable characters |
| Lore | Unclear explanation for Rukkhadevata’s erasure |
| Canon | Questionable consistency and connection to previous content |
| Diversity | Perpetuation of light-skinned beauty standards |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sumeru is problematic due to the lack of representation, whitewashing, and questionable canon. The erasure of Rukkhadevata and the failure to provide a clear explanation for this event have added to the sense of disconnect and frustration among fans. The game’s developers would do well to address these concerns and work towards providing a more inclusive and connected narrative for their players.
Recommendations
• Increase representation: Provide more diverse playable characters that accurately represent the cultures and communities that the game is inspired by.
• Improve lore: Clarify the events surrounding Rukkhadevata’s erasure and ensure that the narrative is more cohesive and connected.
• Address canon: Strive for consistency and continuity throughout the game’s story.
• Diversity: Avoid perpetuating harmful beauty standards and ensure that characters of all skin tones and backgrounds are represented.
By addressing these concerns and providing a more inclusive and connected experience, Genshin Impact can regain the trust of its fans and continue to be a beloved game among players worldwide.