The Absolutely Safe Capsule: The most horrifying fate in all of fiction.

Summary

This video dives deep into the disturbing fate of Pokey (Porky) in *Mother 3*, focusing on his entrapment in the 'Absolutely Safe Capsule.' The speaker explores how Pokey, after years of villainy, is subjected to an eternal, isolated existence devoid of decay, yet mentally deteriorating. This becomes a horrific commentary on immortality and punishment, with existential implications that question the morality of his fate. Additionally, the video touches on the development history of *Mother 3*, the game's themes of morality, and technical glitches like soft-locks in the series, blending analysis with dark insights into the game's world.

Takeaways

• 😀 *Mother 3* is hailed as a masterpiece in RPGs, with exceptional music, unique enemies, and emotional depth.
• 😀 Pokey, a villain from *EarthBound*, receives a grim fate in *Mother 3* when he is trapped in the 'Absolutely Safe Capsule,' which serves as a prison for eternity.
• 😀 The 'Absolutely Safe Capsule' is designed to protect the user from harm, but it becomes a cruel trap, isolating Pokey forever in solitude.
• 😀 Pokey’s immortality, gained through time travel and his selfishness, is portrayed as a horrifying curse, forcing him to endure endless years of mental and physical suffering.
• 😀 Despite being trapped in the capsule, Pokey's desire for death is denied as the capsule is indestructible, reinforcing the theme of eternal suffering.
• 😀 The concept of immortality in *Mother 3* is explored as a form of psychological horror, emphasizing that living forever in isolation is worse than death.
• 😀 Pokey’s eventual fate is a form of poetic justice, given his history of cruelty and the atrocities he committed, including mass genocide and manipulation.
• 😀 In an interview, creator Shigesato Itoi reveals that the 'Absolutely Safe Capsule' was not meant to protect the user, but to protect the universe from the user.
• 😀 Pokey’s fate raises moral questions about whether it’s right to let someone suffer endlessly, tying into *Mother 3*’s exploration of morality and justice.
• 😀 The script touches on the concept of 'softlocks' in game design, highlighting how unintended programming errors can trap players in impossible situations, much like Pokey’s trap in the capsule.
• 😀 The existential horror of Pokey’s fate, in which he is doomed to live after the sun itself dies, forces players to confront the terrifying concept of eternal existence.
• 😀 The theme of eternal suffering, both in Pokey’s fate and the concept of immortality, serves as a deep philosophical exploration in *Mother 3*.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Absolutely Safe Capsule in *Mother 3*?

The Absolutely Safe Capsule serves as a literal and metaphorical prison for Pokey (Porky). It is designed to protect its occupant from all external harm, but in Pokey's case, it traps him in eternal isolation, making it a form of existential torment. Despite being safe from physical harm, Pokey is condemned to live in solitude forever, with no escape or relief from his mental and emotional suffering.

Why is Pokey's immortality in *Mother 3* considered a curse rather than a blessing?

Pokey's immortality is a curse because it condemns him to an eternity of suffering. While he initially sought immortality for power, he ends up isolated in the Absolutely Safe Capsule, unable to die or escape. His continuous existence without meaning or connection to the outside world leads to a slow mental decay, making it a nightmarish fate.

How does the concept of soft locks enhance the gameplay experience in *Mother 3* and *EarthBound*?

Soft locks in *Mother 3* and *EarthBound* add an unpredictable layer of difficulty and frustration. These programming oversights can trap the player in an impossible situation, forcing them to reset their progress or lose significant hours of gameplay. While frustrating, these soft locks serve as a reminder of the quirky, experimental nature of the *Mother* series.

What makes Pokey a particularly vile character in the *Mother* series?

Pokey's cruelty is central to his character. In *EarthBound*, he kidnaps Paula as a human sacrifice for the Happy-Happy cult and serves as Giygas’ right-hand man. In *Mother 3*, he escalates his evil actions by committing mass genocide and manipulating others for his gain. His selfishness, greed, and lack of empathy make him one of the most despicable figures in the series.

How does the development history of *Mother 3* influence its narrative and themes?

The long development history of *Mother 3*, spanning over 12 years, led to significant changes in the game's narrative and themes. Originally envisioned as a late Super Nintendo title and later as a Nintendo 64 game, the story evolved over time. The final product reflects a blend of themes like existentialism, the consequences of immortality, and the cyclical nature of human civilization.

What is the role of time travel in *Mother 3*, particularly regarding Pokey's immortality?

Time travel plays a critical role in granting Pokey immortality. His constant manipulation of time allows him to survive across millennia, resulting in him becoming an ancient, decaying figure. The game's exploration of time travel highlights the cost of immortality and the psychological consequences of living through endless cycles of time.

What does the *Absolutely Safe Capsule* symbolize in *Mother 3*?

The *Absolutely Safe Capsule* symbolizes the ultimate prison—a place that offers physical safety but mental and emotional torment. While it was intended to protect its occupant from external harm, it ultimately becomes a symbol of isolation, reflecting the game's themes of confinement and the horrors of eternal life without connection or purpose.

How does Pokey's fate reflect the themes of morality in *Mother 3*?

Pokey's fate in the *Absolutely Safe Capsule* reflects *Mother 3*'s exploration of morality as subjective and arbitrary. Despite his heinous actions, players are prompted to question whether his eternal suffering is justified. The game suggests that morality is complex, and even the most evil characters may face consequences that challenge traditional notions of justice.

Why is Pokey's role in *Mother 3* considered more evil than Giygas' in *EarthBound*?

Pokey's actions in *Mother 3* are considered more evil than Giygas’ because of the sheer malice and active cruelty he displays. While Giygas is a cosmic force of evil, Pokey is a human being who actively chooses to inflict suffering for his own pleasure, committing genocide and other atrocities. His personal vendetta and moral corruption make his actions more sinister and deliberate than Giygas’ chaotic nature.

What makes the *Mother* series unique in terms of game design and storytelling?

The *Mother* series is unique due to its combination of quirky humor, deep existential themes, and innovative gameplay. It explores complex topics like mortality, the human condition, and the consequences of greed, all while maintaining a surreal and often comedic tone. The series is known for its emotional storytelling and its ability to make players reflect on deep philosophical questions.