Gender representation in video games

The portrayal of gender in video games, as in other media, is a subject of research in gender studies and is discussed in the context of sexism in video gaming. Although women make up about half of video game players, they are significantly underrepresented as characters in mainstream games, despite the prominence of iconic heroines such as Samus Aran or Lara Croft.^[2][3] Women in games often reflect traditional gender roles, sexual objectification, or stereotypes such as the "damsel in distress".^[4][5] Male characters are frequently depicted as big and muscular, and LGBT characters have been slow to appear due to the heteronormativity of the medium.^[6][7]

Research suggests that gender portrayal in games can influence players' perceptions of gender roles, and young girls prefer playing as their own gender much more than boys do.^[8][9] On average, female-led games sell fewer copies than male-led ones but also have lower marketing budgets.^[10]