Since the beginning of time, video games have mostly been geared toward men. But is it time for a change?
Some people would say no. In the past few months, there have been death threats and hostility toward female video game journalists. Anytime someone decides to go against the status quo, there will be some retaliation.
These journalists believe it is time for our games to take a different direction. Women should no longer be portrayed as weak, fragile creatures in need of rescuing but as strong, independent beings that serve along side their male counterparts. Though there have been games in the past that promoted these ideals, like “Tomb Raider” and “Final Fantasy XIII,” this seems to not be enough.
It still angers the feminist community that in most games women are seen as the damsels in distress or sex objects. For example, in “Dead or Alive,” the characters are excessively endowed and scantily clad. The success of this game has led to a spin off where the girls play volleyball and are traipsing around on the beach. To me, this sounds a bit excessive, but if it sells, then it sells.
“Grand Theft Auto” is another game in which there has been some controversy. The fact you can beat up and have sex with hookers is kind of wrong, but your character is not meant to be right. What some people do not understand is that these games are not set in reality or the present time.
Why would game designers do this? They create characters like this because their audience is predominantly men. Video games are a product no matter how you look at it. What it all comes down to is supply and demand. Most men enjoy feeling empowered and like a hero. I’m not saying women should not be allowed to feel this way, but since men are the majority, they control what is produced.
I do not believe our games should be turned on their heads but I can understand games adding a feminine touch. It was not until last year that “Call of Duty: Ghosts” added female characters to their online multiplayer. They made it seem like it was nearly impossible to make this work, but if they have males, how hard is it to add females, because the last time I checked there were women in the military.
Some games need to be more realistic, yes, but they are mostly about fantasy anyway. Should women be harassed and sent death threats because they want to push the envelope? No. No one should be made to endure such treatment. As to how games are, I believe there is ultimately nothing wrong with them. They are an escape and they serve their purpose.
