Why Does Makoto Niijima Turn Red? Exploring Anger, Embarrassment, and More
The provided text mentions Makoto Niijima turning “bright red with anger” when caught in a net by the Geki. This reddening is a physiological response to intense emotion, specifically anger. The body releases adrenaline, causing increased heart rate and blood flow. This increased blood flow, particularly to the face, results in a visible flush or reddening of the skin. While the text focuses on anger as the trigger, Makoto, like any character, might blush for other reasons as well, such as embarrassment, frustration, or even romantic feelings, depending on the specific context within Persona 5. The text also mentions Makoto having “abnormal” eyes that have been “depicted as red.” This is separate from her turning red due to emotions, and is a matter of her character design.
Understanding Makoto’s Emotional Responses
Makoto Niijima, known as Queen in the Phantom Thieves, is portrayed as intelligent, responsible, and sometimes overly serious. Her strong sense of justice and her desire to protect others often lead her to take on a leadership role. This inherent drive, coupled with her pent-up frustrations regarding her helplessness in certain situations, can easily trigger moments of intense emotion. When the article describes her “assaulting the Geki from within the net,” it exemplifies her determination and frustration reaching a boiling point, hence the anger and resulting physical response.
The Physiology of Blushing
Blushing is a complex involuntary reaction controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. When experiencing emotions like anger, embarrassment, or shame, the brain sends signals that trigger the release of adrenaline. Adrenaline causes the blood vessels in the face to dilate, allowing more blood to flow through them. Since the skin on the face is relatively thin and close to the surface, this increased blood flow becomes visible as a red flush. Some individuals are more prone to blushing than others due to variations in skin thickness, blood vessel density, and overall nervous system sensitivity.
Context Matters: Beyond Anger
While the initial passage specifies anger, it’s crucial to remember that characters in narrative often have diverse emotional ranges. Makoto’s reddening could also be attributed to:
- Embarrassment: If she were in a socially awkward situation or felt exposed, she might blush.
- Frustration: A persistent challenge or obstacle could lead to frustration and a visible reddening.
- Romantic Feelings: Especially in relation to Joker, Makoto might blush if she experiences affection or attraction.
The specific scene and its surrounding context are crucial in determining the precise emotional cause of her blushing. The artists and writers carefully consider how the character’s appearance conveys emotion to the player. The Phantom Thieves are able to have confidence because their individual character design reflects how the developers want the players to perceive their characters.
Game Design and Character Portrayal
The visual depiction of Makoto turning red serves a specific purpose within the game’s narrative. It visually reinforces her emotional state for the player, making her reactions more impactful and relatable. It also helps to showcase the intensity of her personality and her commitment to the Phantom Thieves’ cause. These design choices are integral in the gameplay of Persona 5.
Furthermore, the fact that her “abnormal” eyes are described as potentially reddish-brown adds another layer to her character design. It emphasizes her unique features and possibly hints at a deeper, more complex personality beneath her composed exterior.
Makoto’s Growth and Development
Throughout Persona 5, Makoto undergoes significant personal growth. She transitions from a rule-following student council president to a confident and assertive member of the Phantom Thieves. Her ability to channel her anger and frustration into productive action becomes a key strength. By the end of the game, she demonstrates not only intelligence and combat prowess, but also empathy and emotional maturity. This is exemplified as players are able to develop an understanding of the game through the characters themselves. You can learn more about game design and learning from resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions About Makoto Niijima
Here are some frequently asked questions about Makoto Niijima to further enhance your understanding of this fascinating character:
1. Are Makoto’s eyes always red?
No. While described as “abnormal” and sometimes depicted as red, her eye color is more accurately described as a reddish-brown. The perceived redness might depend on the lighting and art style in different scenes.
2. What are Makoto’s strengths as a Phantom Thief?
Makoto is highly intelligent, strategic, and possesses strong leadership skills. Her Persona, Johanna, is powerful, and she excels at using Nuclear skills in combat. She is also exceptionally skilled in martial arts.
3. What is Makoto’s weakness in battle?
Makoto is weak against Psy skills. Be mindful of this when facing enemies who utilize these attacks.
4. What does Makoto teach us about loneliness?
Makoto’s story explores the theme of loneliness and the importance of connection. She initially struggles to find her place and feels isolated due to the pressure she faces. Through her involvement with the Phantom Thieves, she learns to overcome her fears and build meaningful relationships.
5. How old is Makoto Niijima?
Makoto is 17 years old at the start of Persona 5. She is one year older than most of the other main characters.
6. What is Makoto’s Phantom Thief code name?
Makoto’s code name is Queen.
7. What is Makoto’s Persona?
Makoto’s initial Persona is Johanna, a powerful Persona that resembles Pope Joan riding a motorcycle. She later evolves to Anat.
8. Can Makoto be romanced?
Yes, Makoto is one of the characters that Joker can romance in Persona 5.
9. What Arcana does Makoto represent?
Makoto represents the Priestess Arcana.
10. What are Makoto’s interests?
Makoto is interested in studying, helping others, and learning about justice. She is also shown to enjoy watching movies.
11. Is Makoto a good leader?
Yes, Makoto is an effective leader due to her intelligence, strategic thinking, and strong sense of justice. She inspires confidence in her teammates and helps to keep them focused on their goals.
12. How does Makoto contribute to the Phantom Thieves’ success?
Makoto provides valuable strategic planning, intelligence gathering, and combat support to the Phantom Thieves. She is a crucial asset to the team’s success.
13. Is Makoto related to any other characters in Persona 5?
Makoto is the younger sister of Sae Niijima, a prosecutor investigating the Phantom Thieves.
14. What are some of Makoto’s standout moments in the game?
Some of Makoto’s most memorable moments include awakening to her Persona, standing up to Kaneshiro, and developing a close relationship with Joker.
15. Does Makoto have any other nicknames?
Within the fanbase, Makoto is sometimes referred to as “Best Girl” due to her popularity and well-developed character.