Fighting Game Therapy

Jago's New Path?

Dr. Rainey arrived at her office in the early hours of the morning. Around 5'6 and 155 pounds, she wore a professional navy blue suit with a matching skirt and blouse. Her chestnut brown hair cascaded down to her shoulders, framing her hazel eyes, which sparkled with wit and intelligence.

As she was in no rush, Dr. Rainey took a moment to prepare a cup of coffee before settling into her comfortable leather chair. She enjoyed the quiet solitude of the early morning, allowing her thoughts to gather and prepare for the busy day ahead. She also scanned her therapy room.

Soft, muted colors adorned the walls, while gentle lighting created a warm ambiance. The room was furnished with plush armchairs and a cozy sofa, inviting patients to relax and feel at ease. Various art pieces and potted plants added tranquility, creating a space where healing and self-reflection could thrive. Her psychology and counseling certificates hung on the wall, a testament to her commitment to comprehensive care.

Hours passed as her intercom buzzed, disturbing the peace.

"Dr. Rainey, your first patient is here," her assistant said.

Putting away her coffee, Dr. Rainey pressed a button on her intercom. "Thank you, Janet. Send him in." Soon after, she reorganized her room. Once ready, she sat in her chair and prepared herself. On cue, the door knocked. "Come in."

The knob turned, and the door opened, revealing her first patient. Although dressed as a Buddhist monk, the man had ninja-like features. A metal mask concealed his face, except for his brown eyes. His brownish-black hair swept to one side, like in anime, with a bald portion at the back. Ropes encircled his lean, muscled torso, and a curved sword rested on his back. An intricate striped tattoo covered his entire left arm, with some tiger faces. A pair of tiles coiled his wrists, and two tiger-mouthed statues encased his knees.

"Ah, Jago, it's a pleasure to see you," Dr. Rainey said.

The warrior-monk bowed. "Likewise. As such, I'm here to discuss my recurring issues and more."

As Dr. Rainey motioned toward the couch, Jago sat down. He drew out his sword and placed it against the arm handle before lying down. "So, how's your day going?"

Jago scoffed. "I'd be lying if I said I'm having an enjoyable day."

"Oh dear, what problems befall you?"

"Well, I was already having a rough year. Then, someone made this thing called 'If KI had Facebook' on the forums. Don't get me wrong—the concept looked promising until it got to the part about a body pillow with Shin Hisako's image reminiscent of merchandise. It worries my sister that these body pillows may contain my image for fan service personnel. First, I do not need that kind of attention. Also, had these fan service people played KI before?"

"But there's nothing with merchandise, right, even if it's body pillows?"

"It's not about the merchandise itself. It's more about how it objectifies the characters and reduces them to mere sexual objects. My sister was one such victim, though she never admitted it. It was only in 2013 that the developers gave her a makeover. She went from a hypersexualized character to a more dignified and powerful warrior."

"Yes, I remember watching your sister's trailer with her updated look," Dr. Rainey said. "It suits her. However, the fan service personnel will remain, albeit in a minority. So, I reviewed the notes you gave to my assistant in the waiting room. We should discuss why you no longer want to be a KI character. Quitting your status as a warrior-monk will not fix that."

Jago sighed and leaned back in his chair. "I don't plan on quitting my status as a monk, much less stop being a KI character. The main problem is Gargos and his minions. I've had enough of them exploiting my life. I want nothing to do with them."