Video Games: Action Led- Stereotyping

Definition of Action Led-Stereotyping in Video Games

Action led-stereotyping in video games refers to the use of established conventions and character archetypes to drive gameplay, often drawing upon and reinforcing certain stereotypes.

Common Stereotypes in Video Games

Gender stereotypes tend to be prevalent, with males often represented as powerful, aggressive, and independent, while female characters are often depicted as weaker, submissive, or objects of desire.
Ethnic and racial stereotypes are common: People of colour are often underrepresented or portrayed with negative, harmful stereotypes.
Video games often idealize certain body types, promoting unrealistic physical standards.

Consequences of Stereotypes in Video Games

These stereotypes can reinforce damaging societal beliefs and norms, which could lead to issues like sexism, racism, and body shaming.
Stereotypes can limit the diversity of characters and stories in games, reducing the overall richness and potential inclusivity of the gaming world.

Impact on Audience Perception

The repeated use of stereotypes can shape audience perceptions, particularly if the audience lacks direct experiences counteracting these stereotypes.
Young audiences might learn and internalize these stereotypes, shaping their understanding and expectations of gender roles, race, and body standards.

Efforts to Combat Stereotypes in Video Games

The ongoing critique of stereotyping in games has sparked efforts to diversify character representation and challenge prevailing norms.
There are games and developers committed to going against the stereotypes and presenting a more inclusive and diverse scenario to their audience.
The push for increased representation extends beyond character design to also include diverse storytelling and a wider variety of game settings and cultures.

Video Game Rating Systems

Video game rating systems such as PEGI (Pan-European Game Information) help guide consumers about game content, including stereotypical portrayal.

Remember, understanding the issue of stereotyping in video games contributes to a broader comprehension of how media can shape and reflect societal norms and prejudices. It is crucial to examine these elements critically and consider steps towards a more inclusive and realistic portrayal in the medium.