Videogames Don't Understand Women

There's the common stereotype that women don't understand videogames. However, have people thought about if its because video games that don't understand women? Put in that perspective, maybe people haven't thought about that. This article explains the disconnect between women and videogames. Sheri Graner Ray , is a female game designer. She has written a book titled, "Gender Inclusive Game Design: Expanding the Market". Seeing as how her work ties in with our media project, this article looked interesting to read.

Sheri has been an avid supporter of female videogamers. She thinks that there is a specific reason as to why less than 10% of the video game playing population is made up of females. She believes it's attributed to the images that are portrayed in video games. The sexualization of female characters does not appeal to the average female gamer. The typical female hero is "overly endowed, and highly sexualized". Even though both male and female heroes are exaggerated greatly, the female ones are exaggerated at only the point where they are ready for sexual mating (red parted lips, big bedroom eyes). Why is that females are portrayed like that? Men are portrayed in video games a positive emphasis with big body with muscles, strong determination, and a willingness to fight. Male characters aren't placed in a sexual position like females are. You don't see male characters running around in speedos. For females, they get the short end of the stick. Most characters do not show their emotional strength, their wisdom, or their ability to multi-task. They are dressed in explicit clothing.

Another thing to keep in mind is the different perspectives that gamers have in mind. Female gamers aren't necessarily going to be impressed with flashy, sexy images. Guys may like that stuff with explosions and drama. However, with video games, female gamers want some kind of experience playing it, possibly an emotional one where they can relate or be attached to their character. They need a reason to still become involved in the game. Violence and sexual content won't cut it. By sexualizing the female heroine, the video games in a way mocks or trivializes the experience for female gamers and in essence, turns them away from playing. I think that this article was well written and explains well how sexualization won't keep a female gamer interested. I also like that it took the perspective of a female game designer. It makes me curious as to what kinds of games that she has created and how she has broken that stereotype of female characters in videogames.