So, as stated before, we've got iconic imagery, and iconic motion. When you combine the two, you have something that becomes instantly recognizable to players viewing it as "cool". Here's a good example of that:



Bayonetta is an upcoming 3rd person action game from Sega. Despite being a totally new IP and without much knowledge of how the game plays, just by watching the short video you get a good idea of who the main character is, and what her modus operandi is. She's essentially a sexy warrior who fires guns in every direction, reveling in her own strength and ability to kick ass. Her movements are lithe and graceful, she moves liberally in all 3 dimensions, and her combination of skin tight clothing and sexualized demeanor all contribute to this. Nobody would ever confuse her for a blushing bride or somebody who just wants to be normal. The confidence with which she speaks and moves is apparent, even in such a short amount of time.

But what happens when this sort of thing works against you?

( I think you're going to have to show me. )