The central figure in Doki Doki Literature Club!, often referred to by fans as the protagonist, serves as the player’s avatar within the game’s narrative. This individual, whose name is never explicitly stated, enters the Literature Club at the invitation of Sayori, initiating a series of events that dramatically unfold as the game progresses. The narrative is experienced through the eyes of this character, shaping the player’s perception of the other club members and the increasingly unsettling occurrences within the game world.
This silent protagonist’s role is pivotal in creating the game’s unique and disturbing atmosphere. Their seemingly passive participation allows the other characters’ personalities and struggles to take center stage, masking the underlying horror elements until they are abruptly revealed. The characters perceived lack of agency heightens the player’s sense of unease and ultimately contributes to the game’s meta-narrative regarding player choice and the illusion of control within video games. Initially a standard trope, the character’s evolution (or lack thereof) subverts expectations and becomes a critical element in understanding the game’s deeper themes.
