Part 5/10:
Ryan delves into the reactions from Western critics who, when faced with widespread Japanese admiration, express frustration. Articles from outlets like Kotaku and statements from critics such as Gene Park of the Washington Post show a tendency to dismiss or undermine the Japanese praise, often framing it as a concession or even an invalidation of Western criticisms.
Many critics and players perceive the reaction as a form of cultural gatekeeping—suggesting that the lack of outrage from Japanese audiences about the game discredits Western social justice critiques. Ryan highlights how some openly express annoyance that Japanese audiences are not offended, framing this as a form of cultural betrayal or racial insensitivity, which he dismisses as ironic and hypocritical.