Sigh. I tend to be a bit of an idealist. There are some things that I wish to be above reproach and to keep pristine. That’s why when I read a recent article in The New York Times regarding the announcement of a new Disney video game, Epic Mickey, I cringed a little. I read the article a few times and did some searches online which led to some more articles on the game which is set to release next year.
[ By the way, I’m rather surprising myself as I write this. I don’t want to give the impression that every other post here is going to be about Disney. I think it’s coincidental thus far… honestly. ]
In the game Epic Mickey, gamers have an opportunity to play Mickey in the more traditional “good guy” role or in a manner which is darker. Apparently, if you opt for the darker, the visual representation of Mickey becomes more “rat like”. Additionally, Disney has released concept art of the game which includes glimpses of this world in which Mickey’s adventure takes place. The images also include some of Mickey’s foes. To me, they are rather disturbing: think “steampunk” meets the mutated toys from the evil neighbor Sid in Toy Story.
I really did grow up on Disney. I had the opportunity to visit Walt Disney World as a child and again many times as an adult. I was very much enamored with the Disney brand and it’s been a wonderful source of entertainment for my children as well. There are some things that I wish wouldn’t get tinkered with.
The Times article refers to this move as essentially a calculated risk akin to “New Coke”. Personally, I think it’s a bit more of a gamble. Mickey Mouse is an icon of the entire Disney enterprise, not just a variant flavor. I think that I’ve been exposed to more “Mickey” than my children have, but their exposure to the character stems from the wholesome portrayal in the Playhouse Disney version. This version is much more in line with what I’ve been familiar with through the years. But now, in hopes of reaching a new audience, or in trying to reach an older teen audience, Disney is experimenting with this version.
I for one am disheartened by this. While I wish Mr. Iger all the continued success, I hope that this is not the inception of further erosion to the core brand.
