Ichiban Kasuga: A Progressive Hero Undermined by Problematic Substories
Ichiban Kasuga, the charismatic protagonist of the renowned "Like a Dragon" video game series, has consistently demonstrated a modern representation of masculinity, emphasizing empathy, emotional openness, and respectfulness. This portrayal challenges traditional macho stereotypes by offering players an accessible and relatable model of masculinity that openly expresses emotions, prioritizes personal boundaries, and maintains moral integrity. However, certain side narratives within "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" introduce problematic scenarios involving non-consensual sexual encounters, undermining these admirable qualities and raising critical questions about consent and masculinity.
Ichiban Kasuga: A Progressive Portrayal of Masculinity
Ichiban Kasuga stands out as a character celebrated for his departure from outdated masculine ideals. His consistent respect for boundaries, clear communication, and emotional honesty make him an influential figure in contemporary gaming narratives. These characteristics have earned him acclaim among audiences and critics alike, reinforcing the game's positive impact on discussions surrounding masculinity and interpersonal relationships.
Problematic Depictions in "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth"
Despite the overwhelmingly positive portrayal of Ichiban, a handful of substories within "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" significantly undermine his progressive attributes. Two that immediately spring to mind are Substory #47, "Certifiable Lover," and Substory #48, "The Ultimate Alo-Happy Activity!" each present scenarios where Ichiban explicitly refuses or resists sexual advances, yet is subjected to coercive or non-consensual encounters, framed disturbingly as comedic or trivial.
Substory #47: Certifiable Lover
In "Certifiable Lover," Ichiban clearly communicates his lack of consent by expressing that he already has another romantic partner. Laura, disregarding his boundaries, dismisses his refusal by citing her "polyamory certification," thus rationalizing her actions while ignoring Ichiban's agency. Following this interaction, Ichiban is depicted incapacitated and vulnerable, suggesting a sexual encounter occurred without his explicit consent. Laura's dismissive commentary underscores the problematic normalization of non-consensual interactions in a context intended to appear humorous.
Substory #48: The Ultimate Alo-Happy Activity!
Similarly, Substory #48 involves Ichiban facing non-consensual circumstances after explicitly rejecting advances due to his existing relationship commitments. Despite vocalizing his intention to leave, Ichiban’s autonomy is forcibly disregarded by Elizabeth and another character, Alo-Happy, who actively prevents his departure. The abrupt transition to Ichiban lying helpless and incapacitated further reinforces troubling implications of sexual coercion and the disregard for male autonomy within the narrative.
Ethical Implications and Undermining of Positive Masculinity
The explicit disregard for consent shown in these scenarios starkly contrasts Ichiban’s established character traits, undermining the positive portrayal of masculinity the series otherwise successfully promotes. By trivializing serious issues of consent, these narrative choices inadvertently reinforce harmful stereotypes, implying that men’s consent is secondary or negotiable, and potentially normalizing coercive behaviors as acceptable or humorous.
These portrayals perpetuate dangerous myths that men's consent holds lesser significance, indirectly contributing to harmful societal perceptions that can minimize or trivialize male experiences of sexual coercion and violence. Such representations risk contributing to broader cultural misconceptions about consent, potentially weakening progressive discussions about mutual respect and relationship dynamics.
Broader Social and Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of media portrayals, especially within influential and widely consumed platforms like video games, cannot be overstated. Depicting non-consensual encounters humorously or trivializing their seriousness carries significant social implications, potentially normalizing harmful attitudes and behaviors. Misrepresentations in narratives like these may inadvertently reinforce damaging stereotypes that discourage male survivors of sexual assault or coercion from seeking support or acknowledgment.
Given the "Like a Dragon" series' reputation for thoughtful storytelling and progressive character development, these narrative missteps are particularly discordant. Addressing such troubling portrayals is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the series’ positive messaging.
Simply Put
Genuinely upholding positive masculinity involves explicitly and consistently prioritizing clear, enthusiastic consent in all interpersonal interactions depicted within narratives. Future instalments and side stories within the series must unequivocally uphold consent as universal, absolute, and non-negotiable. Ensuring such standards will reinforce Ichiban Kasuga as a true embodiment of modern, positive masculinity, setting a robust example for audiences regarding respectful interpersonal relationships and clear communication.
By directly addressing and rectifying problematic narratives, "Like a Dragon" can continue to positively influence players’ perceptions and contribute meaningfully to cultural dialogues surrounding masculinity, consent, and respectful behaviour.
