Uncharted 3 – Drake’s Deception: Defining the modern “hero”

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One of the key elements that made the post-1962 Marvel Comics line of superheroes stand head and shoulders above the DC comics line of heroes of that same era is their intrinsic lack of perfection. The problem with perfect heroes is that it is very hard to identify with them. Perfection is a realm best left for divine beings.

Modern humans need someone they can identify with. Someone they can view as a mirror of their own insecurities, fumbling awkwardness, and, ultimately, sense of mortality. Peter Parker (Spiderman) embodies this. Geeky? Check. Unsure of himself? Check. Conflicted? Check. Awesome? Absolutely. The same analysis can apply to the protagonist of Naughty Dog’s Uncharted series, Nathan Drake. He is the “everyman” of action video games. This is the appeal that helps explain the large fan anticipation for Uncharted 3 – Drake’s Deception.

Unlike the stolid, unflinching, almost mechanical personas of the generic heroes of Star Craft and Halo, Drake is an obviously flawed character. He is believable. His awkwardness reflects our own innate sense that we are also imperfect. However, Uncharted 3 – Drake’s Deception could stand to put more polish on Drake’s character. While his personality is believable, his aptitude gives the series an unrealistic tinge. One moment, you’re fumbling around. The next moment, you’re an expert marksman? While obviously not perfect, the Uncharted series’ character development could use more polish so there are less leaps of faith in the characters’ actions. [SOURCE]