Page #2 Buried Love
The theme of isolation in "Buried Love" is embodied in the stringent rules set by the game producers, where the primary objective is to establish couples. Participants who remain uncoupled find themselves in a vulnerable state of "isolation," compelling them to forge new connections, even if devoid of genuine romantic feelings, in order to stave off elimination. This predicament aligns with the "Romance is Dead" motto, symbolizing a departure from pursuing romantic relationships with authentic intentions.
As the bombshell character in the game, the player is thrust into a situation where breaking up an existing couple becomes an inevitable, non-negotiable action. This lack of choice echoes Murray's concept of agency, defined as "the satisfying power to take meaningful action and see the results of our decisions and choices." In this context, the player is coerced into shattering a pre-existing relationship to secure one for themselves, compelling them to make a painful decision with enduring consequences.
Explicitly, this act of isolating the solo participant within the game by taking their partner resonates with the broader theme of isolation. Implicitly, however, the author isolates the player by placing them in an uncomfortable position with minimal agency. The scenario confronts the player with the challenge of navigating the consequences of their actions, emphasizing the complex interplay between isolation, decision-making, and the uncomfortable reality of limited agency within the game's narrative.
