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Is Call of Cthulhu Problematic? A Deep Dive into Horror, Representation, and Responsibility

Yes, Call of Cthulhu, like many works of fiction, especially those rooted in the early 20th century, carries problematic elements. These stem from the biases and prejudices of its creator, H.P. Lovecraft, and the social context in which he wrote. These include racism, xenophobia, classism, and a general sense of existential dread often fueled by societal anxieties about the “other.” While the game has evolved significantly since its inception, grappling with these issues remains crucial for players and game masters alike. This requires a thoughtful and critical approach to the source material, allowing us to enjoy the game’s thrilling aspects while acknowledging and mitigating its problematic baggage.

Understanding the Roots of the Issue: Lovecraft’s Legacy

To understand the problematic nature of Call of Cthulhu, we must first confront the legacy of its creator, H.P. Lovecraft. Lovecraft, despite his undeniable influence on horror literature, was a man deeply entrenched in the prejudices of his time. His stories often feature themes of racial and cultural anxieties, portraying non-white characters as inherently inferior or dangerous threats to the established order. This is evident in works like “The Shadow Over Innsmouth,” which uses the fear of miscegenation and degeneration to fuel its horror.

The xenophobia inherent in Lovecraft’s writing extends beyond race, encompassing a fear of the unknown and the “foreign” in all its forms. This manifests as a dread of ancient civilizations, alien intelligences, and anything that challenges the perceived superiority of Western society. Such themes can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce discriminatory attitudes if left unexamined.

Furthermore, Lovecraft’s classism is apparent in his depictions of poverty and the working class. He often portrays the lower classes as uneducated, superstitious, and easily manipulated by sinister forces. This reinforces negative stereotypes and contributes to a sense of social division.

Finally, there is the element of disability as something horrific or terrifying. The way his stories portray physical and mental differences has not aged well.

How Call of Cthulhu Perpetuates (and Mitigates) These Issues

While Chaosium, the publisher of Call of Cthulhu, has made efforts to address these issues, the game inevitably carries the weight of its source material. The core themes of cosmic horror – the insignificance of humanity in the face of vast, uncaring entities – often intertwine with Lovecraft’s problematic views.

The game’s setting, frequently rooted in the 1920s and 1930s, can inadvertently reinforce historical inequalities. The inherent power imbalances between investigators and the forces they confront can mirror real-world social hierarchies, potentially leading to the marginalization of certain player characters or the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.

However, Call of Cthulhu also offers opportunities to critically engage with these issues. Thoughtful game masters can subvert Lovecraft’s prejudices by:

Reinterpreting classic scenarios: Reframing stories to challenge the original assumptions and power dynamics.
Creating diverse and complex characters: Ensuring that characters from marginalized groups are not simply stereotypes but fully realized individuals with their own agency.
Exploring the impact of colonialism and imperialism: Acknowledging the role of Western powers in exploiting and oppressing other cultures.
Focusing on the psychological impact of horror: Exploring how trauma and fear can affect individuals and communities.

By actively addressing these issues, players and game masters can transform Call of Cthulhu from a potentially problematic game into a tool for critical reflection and social commentary. The Games Learning Society provides valuable resources for understanding and addressing such complex themes in gaming. You can find more information at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Moving Forward: Responsible Gaming and Critical Engagement

The key to enjoying Call of Cthulhu responsibly lies in critical engagement. This means acknowledging the game’s problematic elements, understanding their historical context, and actively working to mitigate their harmful effects.

Here are some practical steps players and game masters can take:

Educate yourselves: Learn about Lovecraft’s biases and the history of racism, xenophobia, and other forms of prejudice.
Discuss these issues openly: Talk with your gaming group about the potential for problematic content and how to address it.
Use safety tools: Implement safety mechanics like lines and veils to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and respected.
Challenge stereotypes: Actively subvert harmful tropes and create diverse and complex characters.
Support diverse creators: Seek out and play games written by people from marginalized groups.

By embracing a critical and responsible approach, we can enjoy the thrilling and imaginative aspects of Call of Cthulhu while minimizing its potential for harm. We can use the game as a platform for exploring complex social issues and fostering empathy and understanding. We can, in essence, reclaim the game and mold it into a vehicle for positive change.

Call of Cthulhu: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the main appeal of Call of Cthulhu as a tabletop RPG?

The main appeal lies in its focus on investigation, mystery, and psychological horror. Unlike many RPGs centered on combat and power fantasy, Call of Cthulhu emphasizes the fragility of human sanity and the overwhelming power of the cosmic unknown. Players enjoy the challenge of unraveling complex mysteries, facing terrifying creatures, and grappling with the existential dread that permeates the game world.

2. How does Call of Cthulhu differ from other horror RPGs?

Call of Cthulhu distinguishes itself through its unique blend of Lovecraftian horror, historical setting, and focus on investigation. The game emphasizes the importance of research, deduction, and social interaction, rather than simply hack-and-slash combat. The sanity mechanic, which tracks the investigators’ mental stability, adds a layer of vulnerability and psychological realism rarely found in other horror RPGs.

3. What are some of the common criticisms leveled against Call of Cthulhu?

Common criticisms include the game’s roots in Lovecraft’s problematic views, the potential for perpetuating harmful stereotypes, and the perceived lack of agency for player characters in the face of overwhelming cosmic forces. Some also criticize the game’s lethality, which can lead to frequent character death.

4. How can Game Masters (Keepers) address the problematic elements of Call of Cthulhu?

Keepers can address problematic elements by educating themselves, openly discussing potential issues with their players, using safety tools, reinterpreting classic scenarios, creating diverse and complex characters, and focusing on the psychological impact of horror rather than relying on harmful stereotypes.

5. What are “lines and veils” and how can they be used in Call of Cthulhu?

Lines and veils are safety mechanics used to establish boundaries for sensitive content. Lines are topics that are completely off-limits and should never be included in the game. Veils are topics that can be alluded to but not explicitly depicted. These tools help ensure that everyone feels comfortable and respected at the table.

6. Are there any alternative settings or scenarios for Call of Cthulhu that avoid Lovecraft’s problematic themes?

Yes, there are several alternative settings and scenarios that offer a fresh perspective on the Call of Cthulhu mythos. Some examples include settings that focus on different historical periods, explore diverse cultures, or subvert Lovecraft’s original assumptions. The game Pulp Cthulhu also offers a less grim and more action-oriented take on the game.

7. How does the sanity mechanic in Call of Cthulhu work and why is it important?

The sanity mechanic tracks the investigators’ mental stability as they confront the horrors of the mythos. As investigators witness disturbing events and encounter terrifying creatures, they lose sanity points. A significant loss of sanity can lead to temporary or permanent mental disorders, making the game more challenging and immersive. It’s important because it reflects the psychological impact of confronting the cosmic unknown.

8. What are some useful resources for learning more about Lovecraft’s problematic views and their impact on Call of Cthulhu?

Several resources are available, including academic articles, essays, and online discussions that analyze Lovecraft’s works and his problematic views. Websites like Strange Horizons and The HP Lovecraft Archive offer valuable insights into this topic.

9. Can Call of Cthulhu be used to explore themes of social justice and marginalized communities?

Yes, Call of Cthulhu can be used to explore themes of social justice and marginalized communities by reframing scenarios to focus on the experiences of those who have been historically marginalized. Game Masters can create characters and stories that challenge power structures and highlight the impact of colonialism, racism, and other forms of oppression.

10. How can I create a more inclusive and welcoming gaming group for Call of Cthulhu?

To create a more inclusive and welcoming gaming group, establish clear expectations for respectful behavior, actively solicit feedback from all players, use safety tools, and be mindful of the language and themes used in the game. Foster a culture of open communication and mutual respect.

11. What is the role of “consent in gaming” when playing Call of Cthulhu?

Consent in gaming means ensuring that all players are comfortable with the content and themes being explored. This involves openly discussing potential triggers, using safety tools, and being responsive to the needs and boundaries of all participants. Active and enthusiastic consent is crucial for creating a safe and enjoyable gaming experience.

12. Is it possible to enjoy Call of Cthulhu without condoning Lovecraft’s problematic views?

Yes, it is possible. By acknowledging and critically engaging with Lovecraft’s problematic views, players and game masters can enjoy the game’s positive aspects – its thrilling atmosphere, challenging mysteries, and focus on psychological horror – without condoning or perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

13. What is Pulp Cthulhu and how does it differ from the standard Call of Cthulhu game?

Pulp Cthulhu is a supplement for Call of Cthulhu that offers a more action-oriented and less grim approach to the game. It allows player characters to be more resilient and capable, enabling them to take on more challenging threats and engage in more heroic adventures. It shifts the focus from cosmic dread to thrilling pulp action.

14. How can I find or create Call of Cthulhu scenarios that are more diverse and representative?

You can find or create more diverse and representative scenarios by seeking out games written by diverse creators, reinterpreting classic scenarios to focus on marginalized communities, and actively creating new stories that challenge traditional power dynamics. Online communities and gaming forums are excellent resources for finding and sharing diverse scenarios.

15. Where can I find more information and resources on responsible gaming and addressing problematic content in tabletop RPGs?

Numerous online resources offer information and guidance on responsible gaming and addressing problematic content in tabletop RPGs. Websites like GamesLearningSociety.org, safety toolkits, and online forums dedicated to ethical gaming practices provide valuable insights and practical tools. The Games Learning Society is a great source for more information.

Is Call of Cthulhu problematic?