Meaning: This quote by Don Bluth, a renowned artist and animator, provides insight into the unique nature of video games as a medium for storytelling and character development. Don Bluth is well-known for his work in animation, having produced and directed several successful animated films such as "The Land Before Time," "An American Tail," and "The Secret of NIMH." His perspective on the distinctiveness of video games compared to animated films sheds light on the interactive and immersive nature of gaming as a form of entertainment and art.

In the quote, Don Bluth draws a comparison between video games and animated films, highlighting the differences in how characters are portrayed and developed in each medium. He notes that while animated films focus on presenting characters in a complete and static form, video games emphasize movement and interaction, providing a different approach to character development. This observation underscores the dynamic and participatory nature of video games, where players are actively engaged in shaping the outcomes of the story and the behavior of the characters.

Bluth's distinction between "total character" in animated films and the emphasis on "movement" in video games reflects the multifaceted nature of character representation in these two mediums. In animated films, characters are meticulously crafted to convey a specific persona and set of traits, often with a focus on visual and narrative depth. On the other hand, video game characters are designed to respond to player input, adapt to different scenarios, and evolve based on the choices made within the game world. This dynamic aspect of video game characters adds an extra layer of complexity and nuance to their development, as they are required to be versatile and responsive to various player interactions.

Furthermore, Bluth's mention of "funny little things" and the search for humor in video game characters alludes to the subtleties and details that contribute to their depth and appeal. Video game characters often incorporate nuanced animations, expressions, and behaviors that enrich their personalities and make them relatable to players. The interactive nature of video games allows for the exploration of these intricacies, inviting players to discover the humor, quirks, and idiosyncrasies of the characters as they interact with them throughout the game.

Overall, Don Bluth's perspective on video game characters highlights the evolution of storytelling and character portrayal in interactive media. Video games offer a unique platform for character development, blending movement, interactivity, and humor to create engaging and memorable experiences for players. By recognizing the distinct qualities of video game characters compared to those in animated films, Bluth brings attention to the diverse and evolving nature of character representation across different forms of visual storytelling.