>>97250876>>97251474However, my main issue with Connie could certainly be chalked up to an incorrect interpretation. I believe one of the main themes of the show is Steven learning to balance his Gem half, and his Human half. I think that is fairly set in stone. The Crystal Gems, his shield, his mothers sword, and the barn gems ground him in his Gem half. Greg, Connie, Lars, Sadie, and the Townies ground him to his Human side. Each side has their own strengths and weakness presented in the show. I think Connie is especially important in grounding Steven in his human side, and I think this is an idea that the show fairly consistently tries to demonstrate (Jam Buds, "Human Beings," etc.) She is a straightman looking into the wonders of Steven's gem side, which is relatable to the audience, and gives Steven a perspective on his world and powers that he may not have otherwise. The issue here is that the more involved Connie gets with gem stuff, the more that grounding and theme wears off. The more gem-related stuff she does, the more her character seems to fade.
As for the strength, I actually felt that was my weakest point. Power creep, while it can be unreasonable, is, as you said, necessary to characters relevant in the face of new dangers. My issue with it here is that it sets a dangerous precedent- the opposition will only get bigger and badder, and Connie is still just a human. It feels unbelievable that she could be of as of much use as she has been for much longer.
Sorry for the rant.
