Round-heads and squares
The two head shapes are the game's basic units. Round-heads and squares are not good or evil. They are groups that can be turned against each other by a headline, which is exactly what the Viral chain does.
When a caption says squares or circles, look at the head shape first. Accessories can be copied by either group, so the shape is the most reliable identifier.
Clothing and color
Most figures wear simple shirts. Red is common, and color spreads through crowds during the peace and hate routes. Color is useful for reading a group's mood, but it is not a permanent identity marker.
Hats, sunglasses, and crowns
Accessories carry the story. A bowler hat marks the hat man. Sunglasses and a crown mark the new celebrity in the Star ending. A money bag and a suit mark the investigation route.
When the park copies an accessory, the accessory stops being a unique identifier. The original wearer is usually the one the camera first noticed.
Hearts and expressions
Hearts signal affection and kindness. Worried eyebrows signal fear. A wide smile signals a photo-op. These expressions are the fastest way to choose between the kindness, fear, and Say Cheese routes.
The camera does not read intent, only appearance. A figure that looks scared is a scared subject even if the reason is silly.
Why the crowd matters
Individual figures are simple. Crowds are where the game gets interesting: a group can turn a private moment into a trend, a protest, or a panic. Most endings are about what the crowd does after it sees your photo.