The global video game industry has made some serious strides in the last decade, and with more than 3 billion players worldwide expected by 2029, it shows no signs of slowing anytime soon.
Despite such widespread interest, a study from the Geena Davis Institute (GDI) in collaboration with Nielsen’s Data for Good initiative reveals that most gamers believe characters don’t reflect reality.
In the study, which began in June 2024, researchers asked gamers from the United States and the United Kingdom whether they agreed or disagreed with statements regarding the state of diversity and representation in gaming.
Study Findings
The GDI report reveals 64% of U.S.- and U.K.-based respondents are more likely to play a video game if its characters are more diverse than those they usually see in games. Only 12% disagree, while the remaining 24% neither agree nor disagree.
Sixty-two percent of respondents agree with the statement, “I am more likely to play a video game if the playable characters are diverse,’’ while just 9% disagreed. The other 29% neither agree nor disagree.
A reported 63% agree with the phrase, “I am more likely to play a video game if it includes women as playable characters.” Men and women comprised 60% and 68% of those in agreement, respectively.
Additionally, the study explored the preferences of younger gamers. Of those ages 18 to 24, nearly three-quarters (72%) agree that they are “more likely to play a video game if it includes women as playable characters.”
Just under half of respondents (47%) say they are “less likely to play a video game that uses gender stereotypes.”
What now?
These figures may come as a surprise to some, given the current state of diversity-based initiatives.
However, recent studies indicate that female gamers are playing an increasingly significant role in the industry.
A study from Niko Partners, Inc. reveals women in India spend, on average, 8.5% more than their male counterparts.
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With both global consumer sentiment and sales in mind, AAA studios must ensure representation is a key part of game development, not an afterthought.
The critical acclaim and anticipation surrounding female protagonist-led games, such as Split Fiction and the upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI, alongside the approachable “cozy game” genre and game studios’ forays into cosmetics, could mean women and girls turn to gaming in even-greater-than-anticipated numbers.
“The Geena Davis Institute offers guidance on how to address these findings by integrating awareness of stereotypes, bias, media effects, and self-reflection into the game development process,” the GDI report explains. “The resource aims to empower game creators to craft game narratives and characters that reflect cultural awareness and inclusivity. Check it out at GDIPlaybook.org.”
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A lifelong gamer raised on classic titles like Crash Bandicoot, Spyro, and Croc, Stephanie brings her expertise of gaming and pop culture to deliver unique, refreshing views on the world of video games, complete with references to absurd and obscure media.
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