Lemma Soft Forums

Would you say you generally prefer being able to name the protagonist, or them having a set name? Or do you really not care either way?

Don't really care either way. Unless it's otome (and even then only sometimes) I just go with the flow ^^ I care much more about the personality of the MC tbh.

I always go with the default (if there is one) anyways. So either way is fine with me :3.

Having no default name is kind of a downer though :<. In those cases I just pick a random names that seems fitting or that I like.

It depends on 2 factors:

1. Will there be voicing?

If so, a set name is good. After all, for the most part at least for me, I don't care about naming my character. It's nice to hear the girl/guy actually say my name even if it's a default name. It's still fine to have the person be able to choose a name, but well...that depends on the 2nd factor.

2. How much of a plot will there be? Or what type of game will it be?

Truthfully, it's nicer to have a choice of name if you're going to do a galge/otome game/dating sim.
But if it has a deep story and or background for your character--maybe not a good idea to have a name choosing thing.

I don't really care about whether the name is already set or not, but if the game is replayable with different paths/romance options and character customisation for the protagonist, then sometimes it's nicer to adopt a different persona.

Depending on the game, having the ability to have a name choice is either good or just sorta 'there'. I think Shinoki explains it well- the type of game helps a lot to decide if it's really a good idea, and voicing can be a pivotal role in the choice as well. I play lots of games with voices, and if you can choose the name, it's mostly bit voicing and altering the text comparatively to avoid the name. If it's a simulation, though, that's fine. But for some otome games where there's a heavy story and a lot of background details and such, usually a set name is best, since you're basically trying to push that the person is playing a specific character, not themselves so much. But it really does depend...

I also usually go with the default name when there is one. If I get to input a name, and there is no default or I think the default name is bleh, then I will sometimes input my own name-- but I honestly don't care that much.

Doesn't really matter, but if the character that I am playing as is a blank slate, it would be nice to choose the name.

I'm only interested in changing the name if I can develop the character in strongly divergent directions. That way the name helps remind me what theme I was going for with that character.

Thanks for the feedback everyone! I've decided against having a changeable name, because my protagonist has a set personality and the choices you make don't hugely impact her at all.