Disney Dreamlight Valley intertwines vibrant gameplay with profound themes surrounding mental health, all enhanced by the inclusion of beloved Disney characters. In this enchanting life simulation game, players dive into a serene world where they can fish with Goofy, cultivate crops alongside Wall-E, or play with lovable creatures, including capybaras with Minnie Mouse. The overarching narrative unfolds through quests and cutscenes, beginning with an emotionally resonant storyline centered on The Forgotten.
This article contains spoilers regarding the conclusion of the main campaign of Disney Dreamlight Valley, but does not cover any downloadable content (DLC) storylines.
The Forgotten: An Overlooked Character
DLCs Overlook The Forgotten
The narrative of The Forgotten is delivered in an immersive manner, allowing players to relive poignant memories of this character while reflecting on their own journey. This character, a dark reflection of the player, symbolizes the inner child grappling with life’s hardships. The quests associated with The Forgotten are laden with emotional depth, warranting a trigger warning for players before they dive deeper into the storyline.
The sensitive approach to mental health issues demonstrated by supporting characters provides a nuanced examination of the player’s inner turmoil, as they engage in a therapeutic exploration alongside The Forgotten. However, upon concluding this chapter and embracing The Forgotten within the valley, the character surprisingly fades into obscurity.No references to The Forgotten appear in subsequent DLC content, such as A Rift in Time or Storybook Vale.
Limited Engagement of The Forgotten
The Forgotten’s Twilight State
After completing the primary storyline, players can participate in a few quests aimed at helping The Forgotten rediscover joy and connection within Dreamlight Valley. Tasks include preparing meals for Goofy, gathering gifts for Mickey, and crafting poetry, all intended to facilitate The Forgotten’s reintegration.
However, post-quest, the character’s presence feels neglected as NPCs seem to disregard The Forgotten entirely. Observations in my gameplay have confirmed that even in gatherings, The Forgotten remains isolated, never engaging with other characters beyond sporadic dialogues that offer limited interaction.
A Disturbing Oversight in Storytelling
The Message Lost in Ambiguity
One of the most troubling aspects of The Forgotten’s neglect is its potential implications for players coping with their own emotional battles. The depth of connection established in the main campaign invites players to empathize with The Forgotten’s plight and even encourages self-reflection. However, abandoning this character post-storyline sends a perplexing message to more sensitive players.
The villagers, akin to the support illustrated by characters like Winnie the Pooh and Eeyore, should exemplify acceptance and continued support for The Forgotten. Here lies a valuable opportunity for developers to utilize this character’s ongoing development in a live-service model to showcase how to love and support individuals facing emotional challenges, reinforcing their worthiness of love and connection.
Enhancing The Forgotten’s Experience in Dreamlight Valley
A Call for Greater Inclusion
While Disney Dreamlight Valley isn’t explicitly designed as a mental health therapy tool, its narrative has effectively raised awareness about these critical themes. Even if the developers decide not to delve deeper into emotional complexities, there are numerous ways to integrate The Forgotten more satisfactorily into the game.
- Provide The Forgotten with their own home, which players can personalize, or let them reside in the player’s residence with an assigned space.
- Eliminate the ominous black mist surrounding The Forgotten, giving them a more welcoming appearance.
- Expand dialogue options when interacting with The Forgotten and include them in various character quests.
- Enable The Forgotten to accompany players on tasks and adventures.
- Introduce additional quests involving The Forgotten.
- Consider merging The Forgotten’s essence with the main character.
Furthermore, it may be essential to prioritize the well-being of players previously affected by the story’s mental health themes by offering an option to exclude The Forgotten from their gameplay. While this may seem unkind, it could ensure a more accommodating and safe experience for those in need of such accommodations.
Personally, I cherish my relationship with The Forgotten and hope to engage more profoundly with her during my adventures. A person’s history with depression or emotional strife should never warrant neglect. The villagers of Disney Dreamlight Valley, alongside my character, must strive to adopt a more inclusive attitude, following the example set by Winnie the Pooh, to keep The Forgotten embraced in our shared journeys.
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