Final answer:
The character is Mr. Spencer from 'The Catcher in the Rye', who questions Holden about his lack of direction and emphasizes the importance of following life's rules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character who matches the description you provided, as the first to question Holden's lack of direction by reminding him that "life is a game that one plays according to the rules," is Mr. Spencer from J.D. Salinger's novel The Catcher in the Rye. Mr. Spencer is Holden Caulfield's history teacher at Pencey Prep and he confronts Holden about his expulsion from the school, emphasizing the importance of playing by the rules in life.
The character who delivers the statement "life is a game that one plays according to the rules" and questions Holden Caulfield's lack of direction is Mr. Spencer. Mr. Spencer is Holden's history teacher at Pencey Prep in J.D. Salinger's novel "The Catcher in the Rye."
In a pivotal scene, Mr. Spencer, though a minor character, serves as a voice of authority and wisdom. He highlights the importance of playing by societal rules and challenges Holden to reflect on his choices and behavior. This encounter marks a moment of realization for Holden about the expectations and challenges of the adult world.