Diversity and Representation in Gaming
Women, POC, and LGBTQIA+ individuals are critically underrepresented in video game protagonists, while straight, White male protagonists dominate the medium. This inequality not only alienates players, but also makes marginalized individuals less likely to pursue game development as a career. By conducting a historical overview of the customizability, species, gender, complexion, race, age, and sexual orientation of video game protagonists, we aim to quantify this inequality to establish the need for change on the part of developers. The goal of this research is to effect positive change in representation and inclusivity both on-screen and behind the scenes.
Project sponsored by: University of Washington Information School Game Metadata Research (GAMER) Group
Project participants:
Kathleen Dobruse
MLIS
Anthony McGough
MLIS