Dispatch Developers Clarify: No Bias in Game’s Love Triangle, Debunking Fan Theories
Dispatch, AdHoc’s superhero workplace comedy (often dubbed “Twilight for dudes”), features two romantic interests for the main character, Robert Robertson III. Blonde Blazer embodies the classic superhero archetype, while Invisigal represents the brooding ex-villain. Their contrasting personalities offer players a choice that significantly impacts the game’s narrative. However, players will notice that Invisigal has considerably more screen time and interactions compared to Blonde Blazer, a fact that AdHoc insists is not due to favoritism.
In gaming communities where shipping and romance are hot topics, the perception of unequal treatment among characters can lead to tension. Having experienced the fervor surrounding the Mass Effect trilogy, I recall how fans of Liara often felt compelled to defend her whenever she received more dialogue or higher-quality scenes than other love interests. It’s no surprise that Dispatch has sparked similar discussions.
In a conversation with an outlet, AdHoc co-founder Nick Herman clarified that the difference in screen time wasn’t intended to prioritize one character over the other; it simply arose from the narrative they were crafting. Notably, Blonde Blazer isn’t part of Robert’s superhero team, which naturally gives Invisigal more opportunities to interact with him. As a dispatchee, she participates in missions, and her storyline evolves based on her relationship with Robert as her boss. In contrast, Blazer makes occasional appearances but is less integrated into the daily action.
Herman pointed out a particular scene where either Blazer or Invisigal dances with Robert at a party, highlighting Invisigal’s unreciprocated feelings regardless of the player’s chosen romance. He emphasized that this moment reveals more about the characters than any perceived bias from the developers.
“We make choices for these digital characters that reflect who we believe they are. Invisigal, if she sees someone she has feelings for dancing with another, would naturally show her disappointment,” Herman explained. “Blonde Blazer, at that point, has come to terms with the situation. She’s not going to create a scene; she’s accepted it. This isn’t about developer bias; it’s about staying true to their personalities.”
Fans have also raised concerns about “favoritism” regarding a late-game moment where Invisigal can initiate a kiss with Robert while remaining hidden from his view. While I argued that this scene effectively captures Invisigal’s character and her feelings of loneliness, some players interpreted it as the game “forcing” her on them, even if they were trying to avoid that relationship. The nuances of this scene are complex and merit discussion, but the notion that it reflects a preference for Invisigal seems misguided. Character development doesn’t always cater to player choices, and this moment delves deeper than mere shipping conflicts.
When asked if AdHoc intended for Invisigal to emerge as a secondary protagonist or if it developed naturally, Herman responded, “There was no plan to make Invisigal a secondary protagonist. In Season One, the story centers on Robert’s quest for redemption and helping his team prove they can change. She is integral to that journey.”
His reference to Dispatch as “Season One” suggests that more content may be on the horizon, potentially further exploring the narrative perspective and framing Invisigal more prominently. However, no specific details about a second season have been announced yet.
