🫡.

I know you don't mean it that way at all, but, I do think it's worth considering why it might be perceived as somewhat off to attempt to reframe neuroA experiences for them, especially in a way that kind of bypasses their own self-clarity and capacity to identify lived experiences.

Of course it's more complex, I was zeroing in on this specific aspect of it because I think it's a huge culprit in what's being discussed here.

And even beyond neurotypes and disabilities... Culturally, small talk can look *very* different depending on where you're from, and that also can be a barrier.
Again, nothing against small talk in itself, but yeah, people may have good reasons for being wary around it!

But I feel like characterizing this confusion and anxiety as antisocial is hard to hear for some people who are acutely conscious of the way they may be lacking.
And also, saying that neuroA people are being confused and misled about their own struggles because? they're naive? is a bit strange.

Again, none of this is mean or on purpose (except when it is, it can absolutely happen unfortunately), it's just the reality of not being emotionally aligned. It's subtle stuff -we're complex creatures. Doesn't mean small talk is evil, it's a completely fine way to make friendly noises at each other

Small talk is about reaffirming a certain set of common cues, that will make sense for some, and be confusing and stressful for others. It's about signaling we share a similar logic in a way --and yes, getting the sense that you do not share those cues over and over will lead to alienation.

I think that's a bit of a questionable way to look at it tbh. Neuroatypical people and the mentally ill do tend to be pushed out of the social fabric due to misalignment. I don't think it's consciously mean, it's just about seeking social comfort and codes we can recognize. Everyone does it.

If my perspective is in any way helpful, would love to contribute!

The orientalism is getting completely out of hand also. In 2025, in this current climate, while already reinventing the franchise's foundations anyway, did you *have* to keep on doubling down on its most questionable components. Did you have to Nintendo

I'm trying to remain professional about my public thoughts regarding the narrative direction the Zelda franchise has been taking ever since TotK dropped (exception for EoW), but. Yeah. Yeah. Those thoughts are not kind.

i empathize with the devs who are scared to share their thoughts or experiences, and i respect their decision to do so privately. doesn't it suck that some of us are so scared to come forward for fear of losing out on jobs or facing harassment?

what does that say about how our industry?