Gaming is a source of entertainment that has been popular for decades, and with recent advancements in technology, it has become more immersive than ever before. Over time, as gaming has developed and evolved, the traditional image of a typical gamer has changed. While gaming used to be seen as a predominantly male interest, more women and minority groups have recently become interested in the hobby. This shift has brought about discussions regarding the role of gender and diversity in gaming.
For the longest time, the gaming industry was seen as a boys’ club. Video games were marketed to young, male audiences, and the industry itself was dominated by male developers, publishers, and writers. However, with time, the tide began to turn, and women started participating in the gaming community. These changes led to an increased focus on the role of gender and diversity in gaming.
One significant issue is the representation of female characters in games. In the past, female characters have been portrayed as one-dimensional, sexualised objects, often devoid of personality or agency. The portrayal of female characters as mere eye candy is harmful to women’s representation and reinforces gender stereotypes. It reinforces the notion that women are objects to be ogled and cannot be taken seriously.
Another crucial issue is the under-representation of minority groups in games. People from different racial and ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities are typically under-represented in games. If they appear in a game, it is often to fulfil an archetypal role, rather than being depicted as fully-realised characters.
These issues have created a need for greater diversity and inclusion in gaming. This need has been recognised by many game developers, and they have begun to make changes towards creating a more inclusive gaming experience. Many studios are now hiring more diverse teams, including women and people from different backgrounds. This increased diversity in the development process leads to a more diverse range of experiences being created.
Diversity and inclusion in gaming can also result in a more substantial player base. As the representation of minority groups in gaming increases, so too will the number of players from those groups. A more diverse player base can only lead to more interesting and engaging games being made as developers respond to the needs of different communities.
In conclusion, gender and diversity play an essential role in the modern gaming world. Gaming has shifted away from its traditional male-dominated roots and is becoming increasingly more inclusive. The portrayal of female characters and the under-representation of minority groups in games remain crucial issues that need to be addressed. However, game developers are becoming more aware of these issues and are making efforts towards greater diversity and inclusion. Ultimately, this shift towards a more diverse and inclusive industry will benefit both gamers and the gaming industry as a whole.
