1. "Well, you don't look like a gamer..."
I actually agree with this one. Just because we don't fit into the two ends of the "gamer girl" spectrum (gross vs. hot) doesn't mean we aren't a serious gamer. You've probably already seen how I look (the internet has superpowers like that) and I would say that I'm average looking. With that being said, I don't wear the fact that I'm a gamer on my sleeve. I may appear like Gamer girl online, but I'm toned down in real life. Most people are surprised to hear that I game, and I kind of like that. However, I also wish the stereotypes of girl gamers were broken. I hate walking into Gamestop and being directed to the Wii section or asked if I'm shopping for my boyfriend. I think that with more women being proud of being a gamer, the stereotypes will change and maybe even diminish.2. Honey, We're Heard Them All Before
It's true. For the most part, the online gaming community treats women as if they were from another planet. Dude, even though we game - we've still got lady parts...and no we don't want to make you a sandwich or marry you.3. We Don't Always Want to Talk About Video Games
I consider myself a casual gamer. I game, it's one of my biggest passions, but not every second of every day. I've got a life; I work, I go to school, I socialize, and lastly, I game. I love talking about games, but I feel like being a gamer means you have to prove your authenticity. I think this is especially true with female gamers. Once again we're stereotyped on the extremes of the spectrum (hardcore gamers vs. ditsy n00bs). I can honestly say that I can hold my own on medium difficulty on most games, but put me in an online game and I will get my ass kicked. I don't think that makes me less of a 'gamer', but I feel that I'm treated that way (especially online). It's also similar with legitimate hardcore game titles vs. not so hardcore ones...but we'll get to that later...4. Not Interested
I've already got my knight in shining armor. Plus being a dick online does NOT make women fall at your feet. If you really want to meet some via multiplayer get a friend request, send messages, and slowly build a relationship. However, I think the best place to meet another nerd is a convention or another social gaming event. It's easier to talk to someone when you know they have the same interests as you, and will help spark some conversations.5. GameCrush
'Nuff said.As much as I support all females who game, I cannot support this site. I think it's ridiculous to charge money for playing games. It's taking something innocent and adding a 'trashy' vibe to online multiplayer gaming. Wanna meet local singles on your Xbox? Just add hottie4Lyfe and let the conversations begin. Ew.
6. Most of Us Don't Like Chick Games
...I do. But I think I'm a rare exception. Even then, I like kid games way more than 'chick' games (Viva Pinata all the way :)). Chick games, although sometimes offensive, are still reaching an audience that might not have tried gaming. The more the merrier.7. Stupid Female Character Outfits
I believe that game characters are designed with a mostly male audience in mind. This significantly influences how the character looks, talks, walks, etc. I also believe there is an incredibly fine line between sexy and skanky. I don't mind playing a video game as a 'sexy' female game character; hell, it makes it fun. On the otherhand, I strongly dislike playing as a 'skanky' character. It makes me feel uncomfortable, and a little ashamed of the game.8. We Hate Going into Stores
I like going into stores just to shock people (as mentioned above, I don't really look like a typical female gamer). Interestingly enough, I don't like going into the stores alone. I feel like I'm being judged and/or not legitimate enough when I glance at the newest DS titles. I think gaming stores should offer a more female friendly environment. Maybe more women staff, encourage female gaming tournaments, etc.9. GRRRL Gamers
Hey, I think female gamers should stick together, especially online. I love the fact that gamer girls have an innate community just because of the fact that we're female. It joins us. I also think it's a great way to meet other women who game.In conclusion, I somewhat agree with the article - but I believe that all gamer girl stereotypes can be changed into something positive. Have a great weekend and stay tuned for a new segment on Assassionista, Gamer of the Month.
As Always,
LadySnip3r
PS. Anyone got some ideas for a guy version? I think it would be interesting to compare some gender stereotypes, especially in gaming.
5 comments:
I love it!
And I love the direction you took.
I personally haven't received any strange looks or discrimination when walking into a GameStop, but then I think that could be a regional thing? I live in the good ole' south and I've actually seen quite a few girls employed at GameStops around here.
As for talking about video games with guys, I don't think a guy online has ever asked me about something regarding video games. In game, I've really never heard boys talking much about other games. I think that was a weak topic that could have easily been replaced by something else, like 'I don't want to send you my picture' or 'Just because I played with you once doesn't mean I want to be your friend'. Oh well!
You make some very valid points.
My boyfriend and I both game and recently went in to Game Stop to kills some time. I considered buying a game and *I* asked the clerk if he knew anything about the game. He started telling my boyfriend what he thought about it then went so far as to patronizingly say..."I don't think she'll enjoy the game" which until that point, i had thought sounded interesting. I stepped between the two of them and calmly but firmly (ok, so it might have involved my death glare) reminded him that I had asked about the game and if he wasn't going to talk directly to me, i would be talking directly to his manager. Oddly enough, i haven't seen him in that store since and i have a great rapport with the manager who is an awesome gal.
I also don't spend every waking second thinking about gaming, but i have a healthy competitive streak, hold my own against more experienced friends, and occasionally rage quit. I'm also neither a n00b nor a stereotypical shut in that does nothing but game. It never ceases to amaze me that there's no middle ground for women, but pretty much any guy can be any array of gamer status.
Oh the other thing that i HATE...is when you use your mic and all of a sudden everyone else is like "are you a girl or a little boy?"
W...T...F????
Great insight. I'm a girl gamer with 2 blogs dedicated to gaming. I also met my fiancé on a mmo.
If one had funding and a concept to create a social impact game that has Nobel peace prize possibilities - think I could get some female developers interested?
Thank you for setting things straight about female gamers. I'm the opposite of you I admit (love online, suck at console) but hey, it takes all types, right?
Oh, and skanky female avatars... ugh.
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