Purgatory Theory (Spoilers)

worriedscarecrow

I was challenged once to prove that it was possible to critically analyse a video game based on thematic and aesthetic elements. So I basically wanted to share my essay in a video format and encourage discussion on a 'fan theory' I devised.

If your interested in check out my idea, here's the video (contains HEAVY SPOILERS):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mzq0w4Z4ThU

Bare in mind I've never made a video like this before but I was hoping to start analysing video games and The Walking Dead game inspired me to create theories.

But this is by no means what the developers intended nor is it me attempting to say this is what it's about. I'm instead presenting an alternative way to view the game's narrative. As a result, I hope to see if people who replay the game can add to the 'purgatory theory' - the notion that Lee Everett never left the crash site and instead only exists to guide Clementine towards a future in the post-pandemic world.

I know the idea is quite abstract, but bare in mind it's a personal and quirky way of looking at storytelling in video games.

anonymau5

As an Atheist I found this theory very interesting, getting rid of all this "Saving his soul for God" or whatever. You're also a great speaker, you didn't seem to stutter or pause for any words. However, you should probably speak a bit slower. I found it a bit hard to understand you at times, but that might just because I'm an ignorant American. It would also be better if you seemed a bit more interested. I know that not everyone is a great voice actor, but if you sound bored, the audience will get bored. Overall, a good video.


One thing that bugged me though, was that you said Clementine like ClementiMe. Just a little thing that bugged me.

worriedscarecrow

I'm glad you respect that it wasn't a religious theory. The idea was to explore the notion of hope and guidance. I left out things such as the christian girl at the motel talking about the walkers being 'satanic' because it doesn't reflect my secular point of view. I should have defined 'spiritual' so people don't confuse it with biblical notions of spirit.

Thanks for the critique, I appreciate it! I can see what your getting at. I'm Northern Irish and it's become common to associate us with talking too fast! In terms of bored, your right. I'm incredibly nervous when speaking and when I listen to my own voice it scares me off. I was focusing on saying the essay correctly that pronunciation and enthusiasm went over my head, but I'll remember this for next time. I don't have the greatest voice but it's a learning experience until you get it right! Hopefully as I grow with confidence my speech gets better, I'm more of a 'behind the scenes guy'.

The pronunciation of Clem was just my accent and the fact I spoke too fast. Sorry about that!

Rock114

Truly an interesting video, especially when you brought up that Lee is only a hero in the eyes of Clementine and the player, not the actual group. I liked the video, it was pretty well done, except perhaps that you talked a bit too fast. Only a minor gripe, though.

Crixus

Cool Video man, i subscribed. Looking forward to more videos.

The Fallen

Rock114 wrote: »

Truly an interesting video, especially when you brought up that Lee is only a hero in the eyes of Clementine and the player, not the actual group. I liked the video, it was pretty well done, except perhaps that you talked a bit too fast. Only a minor gripe, though.

That was an interesting bit and had me thinking about it. Some characters like Doug, Carley and possibly Kenny certainly thought very highly of Lee, but was he the hero? Hmm.

Otherwise the video was a very nice look at the masses of symbolism in the game, as well as how it develops to focus you on Clem.

One criticism i do have is of the Lee can't save anyone because he isn't really there concept, while he can't change the ultimate outcome or save people, but people are going to die anyway, is it a waste of time for a doctor to save a patient because eventually they'll die regardless. His choice between Doug or Carley will buy them some more time, which is all anybody can do for anyone.

worriedscarecrow

Thanks for the feedback guys! Means a lot! I'm taking on board all the problems in my speech. Being Northern Irish curses you with a speedy tongue.

Your completely entitled to disagree, in fact I encourage it - it stirs up discussion. I understand that I don't make all my points entirely clear so I'll need to focus on that. In regards to analysis in general, if there is any other games you want me to analysis make sure to stick around on my channel.

zev_zev

I don't understand, am I the only one who was't chained Lee handcuffed in the ending?

Nice video. It's really beautifull theory as like "Fight club" style, but It's impossible...just because it's The Walking Dead, just because it's Robert Kirkman.

Leegacy

zev_zev wrote: »

I don't understand, am I the only one who was't chained Lee handcuffed in the ending?

i was so distracted by Lee teaching Clementine how to survive that i didn't realise that you could handcuff Lee

montesinos7

Fantastic. I am an atheist but damn.

gimmeseason2

montesinos7 wrote: »

Fantastic. I am an atheist but damn.

^this
really interesting video though

Rock114

I didn;t handcuff Lee at first. I didn;t even think, when they showed his hands, that the handcuffs could be used on him. "What, am I gonna handcuff Lee? That's stupid, why would they put that in there..." Needless to say, I do it every time I play that scene now.

worriedscarecrow

In terms of those who are atheist, I wish to respect religion by noting this is NOT a biblical theory. I've not inferring to any christian values etc instead using the doctrine of 'purgatory' to craft the notion of hope and external guidance. I myself don't hold any religious beliefs but the idea to expand how we as viewers read whats on screen.

But again, thanks for all the feedback!

thestalkinghead

some good theories, it reminds me of this thread :

http://www.telltalegames.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33347

Epic Kiwi

Great video, I always love hearing these intricate theories about games/films/novels that I wouldn't have even thought of otherwise, especially these more symbolic ones. Even though it probably wasn't Telltale's intent, it's hard to argue with all those parallels and makes one wonder just how much they DID intend to be noticed like that. Definitely going to keep this in mind and look for more clues next time I play through.

And for what it's worth, I'm American and didn't have any trouble understanding you.

Bobs

Waho! I think you really argued conclusively, plus I like the accent.
Do you know Bioshock 1?

Fabrimuch

Well, if there ever was a game made to be analysed, it´s Spec Ops: The Line *wink wink*.

worriedscarecrow

Believe it or not, I actually have Bioshock, Red Dead, Far Cry 3 and Spec Ops on my list to analysis in the future. Thanks for all the support, I'm working on a bit of a gaming channel now so I hope to do a few more critical videos once I get some short ones done.