PUNK_KRICKET'S PROFILE

I'm kinda intimidated by this map. O_o Love the layout of it though.

Though not a game creator, I'll speak strictly from the perspective of an observer/gamer.

Religious symbolism within video games is all about context. A cross is synonymous to many things, and translates to individuals in a number a ways but universally means a place of sanctuary.

In terms of world creation, it aids in creating the illusion of semblance to ours – having the presence of a religious organization or even a secluded sect of religious practitioners that would mirror, variably, those we see in our own. When presented, it's best to do so in a way that builds the game world narrative in some small way, even if it's not a major component to the overall story.

I'll use Dragon Quest as an example: The games have an established religion and lore that derives its origins from the notion of a 'Goddess', and likewise, their chapels/churches/ministry reflect a simple and to the point belief system – that a central figure helps the people cope with the tribulations of their world. Even the demons at least acknowledge her and mock her, which lends a bit more credibility of how it molds the tone of the game world, making the believing in the 'Goddess' seem more or less natural.

Using a cross to represent an in-game religion, whether it be of your own creation, or inspired by real-life ones, still can borrow the symbolism that it holds in the real world, so long as it doesn't detract from what you're trying to convey with your in-game religion. And, in the grand scheme of the world you're trying to imagine, if the cross does no properly represent the religion you're wanting to make, then there are numerous other symbols to draw inspiration from.

Speaking personally, I've found certain titles use Christian/Judo-Christian imagery well to suit their narrative (Xenogears/Xenosaga), while others simply had it sprinkled in to add context to something within the game (Resonance of Fate comes to mind for some reason). As long as it's not overdone or drawn out to the point of making itself redundant, then it can be a powerful tool to forward a narrative.

Simply put – it's all about context and connectivity to the religion you've created and whether or not it can be a symbol that rightly connects to what your religion represents.

Most of the time I relate it to simply representing a place of worship or a sanctuary. Doesn't really bother me, and could genuinely care less whether a game has them or not.

I'm a little late but..I hope things improve for ya, Pianotm! -massive e-hug-

Noooo. Don't cancel it! Work on it at your own pace. :3 We're all behind ya on that!

And here I thought I was crazy when I saw numerous locked introduction threads. O_o

What's the story with that? All I've gleamed so far is 'troll' and 'spam', which gives me plenty but I want to be in the know, too. XD

Edit: Went and checked out some of those locked and archived posts...I love you glorious bastards. I saw one thread about some guy hating on musicals and lemme just say..the responses made me laugh.