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This thesis argues that while relationship systems in modern role-playing games (RPGs) are narratively complex, they are limited by core design conventions that undermine authenticity and inclusivity. It examines the central conflict between empowering player agency and portraying believable characters, revealing how a pervasive player-centric model, an amatonormative bias towards romance, and superficial representation create significant design challenges.
Through case studies of influential games and original survey data from players and developers, this research demonstrates that these limitations are not merely theoretical. A key empirical finding is the shared desire among both players and developers for greater NPC autonomy, challenging the long-held assumption that players always prioritize maximum control.
Building on these findings, the thesis concludes by proposing a set of concrete design principles. These guidelines are aimed at fostering more believable, inclusive, and emotionally resonant relationship systems by navigating the core tensions between player freedom and character integrity, mechanical clarity and immersive authenticity.