Hybridizing the West: The Active Reconfiguration of Western Imagery in Japanese Video Games
Abstract
In this article it examines real game examples of how Japanese game makers learn from the West. It also looks on the way they modify and remake these western things on their own. From the research we know, Japanese games are not copying western culture in a simplistic way. They reconstruct the west elements with oriental thoughts and the main part is traditional Japan. This method allows Japanese games to create their own worldviews and gain recognition in overseas culture. Bhabha's hybridity theory and the balance between global and local culture are theoretical tools that can also help people clearly understand this. And it helps us understand the culture in games more easily. Different cultures mixing together makes for lotsa good stuff in Japanese games. They get great commercial value and big international influence. At the same time，they also bring this traditional Japanese spirit and aesthetic idea to people all over the world. And this kind of cultural mix would make the different cultures get along better in our present day digital society. Furthermore, exporting culture by means of game also can bring about great economic gains for Japan. The experience of Japan can serve as a useful example for the cultural industries of other non-Western countries.
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