Why are there so many references to "Arcadia" in video games, especially RPGs?
by 
Anti-Semantic - Quaerens Intellectum
ANSWERS: 2
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mythical Utopia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcadia_(utopia)
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Arcadia first originates from Greek mythology, and in many cultures and stories represents a world where its inhabitants are in complete harmony with nature, and themselves. Though role playing games don't always apply Arcadia to pastoralism, sometimes it's a highly advanced civilization in the image of Atlantis, but to link the word to the game's world always suggests, basically, the perfect world, even if sometimes it's nothing but a metaphor, such as Skies of Arcadia, denoting the complete freedom of sky pirates. It makes an easy world to get to know and like, therefore emphasizing the ill intent of whatever villain wants to rule/destroy it, basically making you care about the story. Role playing games have a historical habit of always naming significant elements of their games in relation to popular mythology, or at least, using its symbolism to shape its own content. Sort of like how every general in every role playing game is either called Leo, or Leon, to denote the leadership, courage and tenacity of the symbolism attributed to the lion. Recognition, as well as mere flash value. ^_^
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