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Alex Kerkhoff
24 March 2017
games that this process is rarely, if ever, questioned by mainstream consumers. This is a
testament to the hegemonic state of the modern video game industry which too often develops
games that rely on stock characters and stereotypical storylines in an attempt to reach the
broadest audience possible. The game designer and writer Anna Anthropy addresses this issue
in her article “The problem with videogames”, and draws our attention to the untapped
potential of video games to tell stories from a wider range of voices and backgrounds than what
is currently offered. Attempts to incorporate these perspectives into games are often hindered
by a culture of exclusion, which sees a small labor pool of mainly young white males at the
center of the industry. However, as we see the proliferation of more adaptable and user
friendly software, the ability to construct games falls into the hands of everyday hobbyists. This
Anna’s own creation, a flash game called "Dys4ia", exemplifies her vision of conveying
unique and insightful perspectives of individuals whose voices are rarely heard in video games.
The game takes us through the process of her own gender exploration and hormone
replacement therapy with short mini games that effectively communicate the discomfort and
complexity of her experience. The narrative provides a valuable look into the struggles of a
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often overlooked group. Other games are less explicit in the portrayal of identity and roles,
seeking rather to weave these elements into the fabric of the story. In the case of the eccentric
stop motion game "Dominique Pamplemousse", a subtle reference to gender adds to the
Games such as these represent a movement away from the rigid constraints set upon
character and story represented by contemporary AAA produced games. The act of
incorporating the perspectives of minorities into video game narratives is vitally important not
just for creating a more diverse and compelling gaming experience, but also for providing a
voice to these groups in a cultural context. By showcasing the opinions and feelings of
neglected peoples, we also increase the power and relevance of these individuals in society.
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Works Cited
Anthropy, Anna. “The Problem With Videogames.” Rise of the Videogame Zinesters: How
People Like You Are Taking Back an Art Form. New York: Seven Stories Press, 2012. Print.
Dominique Pamplemousse in “It’s All Over Once The Fat Lady Sings!”. Squinkifer, Dietrich .