Ashly Burch on Slay the Spire 2 and the Need for Less Stoic Game Characters

Ashly Burch, best known for voicing Aloy in the Horizon series and starring in Mythic Quest, is currently deep into Slay the Spire 2. However, her recent conversation with the tech press reveals a broader critique of character design in modern gaming. Burch argues that the industry over-relies on stoic, silent protagonists, leaving little room for the messy, reactive humanity that often drives compelling narratives.

Speaking to GN technics/gaming (en-US), Burch stated she wants to see more "shitty little bitches" in video games, using the phrase to describe characters who are flawed, snappy, or emotionally volatile. This preference contrasts with the typical action-hero archetype and aligns with her own work in comedy and character-driven storytelling, where imperfection is a key narrative tool.

Preference for flawed personalities

The actor’s comment highlights a shift in player expectations. While silent protagonists allow for immersion and projection, Burch suggests that this approach can result in flat, unmemorable characters. She prefers roles that offer distinct voices and clear emotional reactions, which she believes make for more engaging gameplay and storytelling. This view resonates with fans who feel that many recent titles lack distinct personalities in their leads.

Burch’s perspective is informed by her extensive experience in voice acting, from Tiny Tina to Chloe in Life is Strange. In these roles, the character's personality is the primary driver of the experience. By advocating for more expressive characters, she is effectively calling for a balance between the player’s agency and the character’s distinct identity, ensuring that the protagonist feels like a real person rather than a vessel for the player’s actions.

Current gaming habits and interests

Beyond her commentary on character design, Burch shared details about her current gaming routine. She is actively playing Slay the Spire 2, a deck-building roguelike that has captured her interest. The game’s strategic depth and replayability seem to appeal to her, offering a different pace from the narrative-heavy titles she is famous for. Her engagement with such a game suggests a diverse approach to gaming, valuing both mechanical complexity and narrative depth.

Impact on game design trends

While one actor’s preference does not dictate industry trends, Burch’s status as a high-profile voice in gaming gives her words significant weight. Her critique of stoic characters may influence how studios approach narrative design in future projects. Developers are already noticing a growing demand for characters with strong, distinct voices, as seen in the success of titles that prioritize character interaction over pure action. Burch’s comments serve as a reminder that players are increasingly seeking emotional connection and realistic human flaws in their digital companions.