Changes in Video Games Promoting Gender Equality
Do you enjoy grabbing a console and getting wired into video games? You certainly aren’t alone. Far more individuals would choose gaming over streaming the latest Netflix movie or listening to their favorite music. The sheer inventiveness of game designers and illustrators shows no signs of abating, and one reason for their popularity is the way games can hold a mirror to the society we live in. In the early 21st century, communities are growing to be more accepting of difference, and inclusivity has become so much more than a buzzword. Gender equality is enshrined in international law. Here, we’ll take a closer look into how the dating industry is accommodating and promoting this important topic.
Why LGBT representation in video games is crucial
Any activity that is enjoyed by millions upon millions of eager devotees needs to ensure the experience is as safe as possible for the participants. A crucial aspect of this integrity is guaranteeing nobody is ever exposed to harmful content or material that might reflect anti-social attitudes, such as racism, homophobia, or misogyny. An interesting parallel would be to compare gaming with another digital arena capable of generating huge amounts of customer engagement and web traffic: online dating. Gender equality has been a key component of the dating industry for a long time.
There are now websites and apps catering to a diverse range of client demands, especially niche areas such as LGBT relationships, including so-called sugaring (the age-gap dynamic where lesbian sugar mamas can seek younger partners for a mutually beneficial partnership.) Using discreet communication channels on these matchmaking platforms, LGBT singles can connect with compatible people and might even get around to discussing their preferred video games as a prelude to date night. The games they can choose to play must offer scenarios they can empathize with, allowing them to invest so much more in these outings than simply pressing a few buttons to atomize opponents. Games are created with considerable thought, as their designers seek to encourage players to get truly invested in the situations appearing on their computer screens (from classic romancing options to less widespread scenarios like sugar mama or sugar daddy when playing some Sims 4 modes and variations).
Versatile character customization options in games
Gone are the days when there was a strict relationship between gamer and game, with the former being presented with limited options. Nowadays, characters can not only select who they wish to control with their handsets, but they can also customize every aspect of them. This proactive ability makes games more personal than ever. All it takes is a modicum of imagination for players to get truly inventive. Having gone to the trouble of putting their spin on their protagonists, they’ll be more likely to keep coming back to play. As well as customizing LGBT characters, anyone from that community can also rely on numerous games featuring gay and lesbian individuals.
Massive titles with LGBT characters
Hades
This hugely entertaining game taps into the diverse and inclusive world of Ancient Greek mythology, where players have to overcome a series of challenges to escape the Underworld and reach Mount Olympus, the realm of the gods. The main character is Zagreus, who is bisexual. In the game, you have the option of forming a romantic attachment with Thanatos, son of Nyx, goddess of the night. Aside from this aspect, the game itself is also immensely fun to play, with lots of sword-fighting action.
Cyberpunk 2077
Perhaps less refined than the first example, Cyberpunk 2077 is still wonderfully engaging. Here, you are let loose in Night City, an open-world dimension set in the dystopian Cyberpunk universe and featuring varius supporting characters including Judy who happens to be lesbian. The character you control is V, a mercenary you can customize (by gender and sexual orientation) and who can gather skills for hacking and also acquire machinery to help in combat.
The Last of Us Part II
Ellie, the lesbian character from this post-pandemic apocalypse, is a feisty young girl who is struggling to survive in a world populated by zombie-like cannibals and murderous human survivors. Her backstory, dedication and fighting spirit makes her a great character to play.
The Outer Worlds
In this sci-fi classic, players can create their character to get involved in thrilling action involving spaceships and fast travel across galaxies. You have the option to make their gender identities match your own or pursue all kinds of romantic experiences!
The video gaming industry is already massive, and it is continuing to expand. According to recent data, upwards of 3 billion gamers are active in the world right now, a figure that is only going to increase as new titles are released and more people gain access to diverse platforms. There are now so many ways to indulge in this pastime, from free-to-play games on your mobile device to collaborating with multiple players online. As well as more fun games to enjoy, more and more releases are likely to feature strong character inclusivity. The future of gender equality in gaming has never looked healthier.
