User:Chenzhih/Gender inequality

In Video Games
Gender inequality in video games manifests itself in various ways, including the underrepresentation of women in video games, limited roles for female characters, sexualization and objectification of female characters, and general harassment of women in gaming communities and discrimination. Among them, the underrepresentation of women in video games is mainly reflected in the fact that they are often relegated to supporting roles or rescued objects such as Princess Peach in the Mario series. The main plot of the story is that Princess Peach is kidnapped1, and then the Mario brothers go to rescue her. Many games feature male protagonists, and when female characters are present, they are often sexualized or portrayed as weak or overly emotional. It sends a message to the player that women are not as capable or important as men.

Additionally, a toxic and often misogynistic culture exists within gaming communities. Women who play games are often harassed, threatened, and discriminated against simply because of their gender. This can create a hostile environment that makes it difficult for women to enjoy gaming or participate in the community2.

According to 2022 data from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), there are 215.5 million active video game players in the United States. Among them, female players accounted for 48%. Although the number of female gamers is increasing, there are many female gamers who are reluctant to call themselves "gamers". In the data from Pixar Research Center, many gamers (including female gamers) believe that the majority of gamers in the gaming community are male3. Women are generally harassed and discriminated against in the gaming community. Women are routinely subjected to sexist and misogynistic comments, harassment, and threats. It creates a hostile environment that discourages women from participating in the gaming community and reinforces the notion that women are not welcome in the gaming space.