| Title | A Content Analysis of Non-Visual Character Dimensions of Female Characters in Video Games |
| Presenter(s) | Katherine Scheck, Dong Yeop Lee, Byung Pyo Kyung and Wan Bok Lee |
| Session | Conference Reception, Game Exhibition, and Poster Session |
| Time | Thursday, October 20, 7:00p-10:00p |
| Location | MSU Union Ballroom |
| Format | Poster Presentation |
| Description | Studies have shown that female characters in popular media are often shown in a submissive, sexually suggestive, stereotypical, and insubstantial manner. Further studies have linked these portrayals with real world consequences. Previous game design research has focused on the visual design of female characters and only studied female characters as a single group with respect to male characters as another single group. This study examines non-visual characteristics—goals, agency, and role—and compares these qualities between male and female characters both as a whole and among characters of similar prominence within a game. Results confirm that female characters continue to be underrepresented in games, especially as prominent characters, but suggest that female characters may not be written with less depth when compared to male characters of similar prominence. |
