Jade Empire Interview, Part Two
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Q: Please describe the morality / good and evil system in Jade Empire. How does it differ from what BioWare has done before in this area?
A: The morality system in Jade Empire is both a further refinement of the system that we used in Knights of the Old Republic and a step in a new direction. The mechanics of the system are very similar to what we did in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, with the player's actions earning them points on either side of the scale and the further the player goes, the more that their alignment affects their appearance, their relationships, etc. However, we have a distinct difference this time around that we think makes the system more compelling and more realistic.
The moral layer that we add to our plots really enriches the experience, in my opinion. It's not simply the multiple paths or endings and the replay factor, although this is compelling; it's also the ability to evoke emotion in the player. In the Jade Empire, as in real life, good and evil are not black and white, easy options. There are two competing philosophies in the Jade Empire, the Way of the Closed Fist and the Way of the Open Palm.
Despite its name, the Way of the Closed Fist isn't entirely about doing violence. Characters that choose it may be quicker to resort to violence, but a trained warrior can wound just as easily with the open hand as with the closed fist. The Way of the Closed Fist is a philosophy of doing whatever it takes to advance one's own station and interests, regardless of the consequences such actions may have on rest of the world.
Those who follow the Way of the Open Palm believe that strength lies in maintaining one's station, and in considering the greater whole before the parts. The so-called "high path" is concerned with the welfare and prosperity of the people, almost to the exclusion of the individual's safety. Those who walk this path don't seek power; they know true power lies in the strength of community, with all parts of the world machine working together in a perfect cosmic harmony.
