#i'm not including this in the main text but I think twcfm did a great job understanding the autistic experience

[goemon-fan]

I like how Goemon's design doubles as both a display of his intimidating nature at being a living weapon, but also as representative of his social awkwardness. Goemon's face consistently has a flat effect, and he is the character most shrouded in shadow, making him seem "scary" to the people around him. But, beneath the surface, when he is given a chance by someone, he's actually a very moralistic and kind character who simply desires friendship; however, due to lacking friends, he does not know appropriate social conventions or expressions, making him look "scary," thus fueling the cycle again. I similarly like how Fujiko is the reverse of this, in the sense that her attractive appearance and understanding of social conventions and what people want from a woman allow her to draw people to her for less honest purposes.