The Unsettling Nature of Mad Gods in Art and Games

0:00 Mad Gods

The concept of a god going mad raises unsettling questions about morality and the fate of humanity. From childhood experiences with games like “The Wind Waker,” the realization that divine beings can cause destruction leads to deeper reflections on the nature of gods and their actions.

0:55 Cruelty of Berserk

In “Berserk,” madness permeates the world, as former humans, driven by the thirst for power, become monstrous deities. Griffith, a once noble knight, exemplifies the corruption inherent in the quest for divine strength. The story emphasizes personal choice over destiny, illustrating how the pursuit of power often leads to cruelty.

2:38 Zelda and Divine Sickness

In the Zelda franchise, minor deities can be cured of their madness, but major ones remain permanently cruel. Characters often accept their deities' actions without question, reflecting a broader theme of worshipping malevolence, as explored in the game “Blasphemous,” which draws from historical contexts of suffering and penance.

4:31 Hail to Insanity

The “Hellblade” series highlights the blurred lines between personal insanity and divine influence, as Senua’s psychosis is interpreted as the work of dark gods. Similarly, “Indika” portrays a nun battling her hallucinations, raising questions about the nature of madness and divine presence.

6:30 Fear & Hunger

Games allow players to experience the overwhelming power of mad gods, either as overseers or as subjects. Titles like “God of War” and “Fear and Hunger” emphasize feelings of powerlessness, immersing players in the struggles against cruel deities and their whims.

8:06 Rain World

“Rain World” presents a seemingly cute environment that conceals a harsh reality. The character Five Pebbles, an AI deity, embodies the tragic consequences of madness and abandonment, reflecting the theme of creation leading to suffering.

10:01 Cruel Fathers

The narrative of mad gods often involves themes of immoral parenthood, with gods creating suffering for their creations. This cycle of cruelty is prevalent across various myths and narratives, suggesting an ongoing theme of parricide and divine violence.

12:02 Cruel Gods Create Cruel Gods

“Poor Things” explores the complexities of creator and creation, depicting a mad god who brings life through violent means. The relationship between creator and creation raises questions about the responsibilities and moral obligations of those who hold power.

15:10 Mark Twain (No, Really)

In “The Adventures of Mark Twain,” an exploration of the creative process reveals the interplay between creator and creation. The character Satan, despite his power, is trapped in a cycle of cruelty and incompleteness, mirroring the struggles of authorship and divine control.

17:52 Creators and Creations

The act of creation in storytelling often involves inflicting suffering on characters, paralleling the relationship between authors and their creations. This dynamic raises questions about the moral implications of wielding godlike power over fictional lives.

18:56 MAD GOD

“Mad God” exemplifies the chaos and cruelty of creation, portraying a world shaped by madness. The film’s chaotic environment serves as a reflection of the struggles faced by its creator, emphasizing the darker aspects of artistic expression.

21:29 All We Can Do

Tales of mad gods remind us that not all suffering is rational or deserved. Embracing the unpredictability of life’s hardships can provide comfort, highlighting the importance of the creative process and the choices made within it.