Recent statistics show around 3.32 billion active video gamers worldwide, representing people of all ethnicities, genders and backgrounds. However, the characters they control often lack this diversity. Many games feature the same stereotypical protagonist — a thirtysomething white man with a rugged appearance and a quest for justice.
Thankfully, a few standout AAA titles have risen to the challenge, offering more affluent and representative experiences. Here are five games that have successfully embraced diversity, setting a new benchmark for the gaming industry.
‘Sleeping Dogs’
Sleeping Dogs stands out for its representation of Asian and Asian American cultures in the open-world crime game genre. Set in Hong Kong, the game draws inspiration from 1980s Chinese action films, incorporating cultural elements and references that resonate with players and provide an authentic feel.
The game portrays Chinese culture with respect, blending it seamlessly with a thrilling narrative. Players experience the vibrant culture of Hong Kong, from bustling markets to martial arts showdowns.
Sleeping Dogs celebrates cultural nuances and offers a platform for underrepresented groups. The game allows players to immerse themselves in a different culture, understanding its traditions and values. This approach enriches the gaming experience and promotes cultural appreciation and awareness.
The main character, Wei Shen, is a Chinese American undercover cop. His dual identity adds depth to the story, exploring the challenges of navigating between two cultures. Wei’s journey is exciting and culturally insightful, offering players a unique perspective.
Additionally, the game features Mahjong Poker, also known as Poker Mahjong, which Wei Shen can play at two offshore gambling dens. Players can bet up to HKD 5000 and win up to HKD 25000 per hand, adding an engaging layer of gambling similar to the excitement of online casino games.
Telltale’s ‘The Walking Dead’
Telltale’s “The Walking Dead” series is an excellent example of how to portray diverse characters. The series starts with Lee Everett, a black man who becomes a leader and father figure to Clementine, a young girl with mixed ethnicity. Lee is not the typical video game hero, which makes his character refreshing and relatable.
Clementine’s growth throughout the series is fascinating. Players watch her change from a scared child to a strong survivor. Her mixed ethnicity helps many players see themselves in her, making her one of the most loved characters in gaming.
Michonne, a powerful black woman, is another essential character. Her strength and depth add even more diversity to the game. She is a strong leader and an inspiration.
In later seasons, Javier Garcia, a Hispanic man, takes the lead role. His character brings a fresh perspective to the story, showing the experiences of Hispanic people in a challenging, post-apocalyptic world.
‘The Sims 4’
“The Sims 4” is an excellent game that mirrors real-world diversity. Players can create Sims of any ethnicity, body type, sexuality and gender. In 2016, an update allowed for even more gender expression options, letting players customize their Sims’ appearances without limits.
Features like hearing aids, glucose monitors and top surgery scars are included, allowing players to represent transgender and disabled characters. These inclusions make the game even more inclusive.
The Sims 4 creates a world free from real-world prejudices. There is no racism, sexism or homophobia in the game. Players can explore different identities and lifestyles without societal constraints, allowing for unique self-expression.
Updates continue to add new features, such as more customization options for Sims. These additions make the game more realistic and personal for players, reflecting their real-life experiences.
The Sims 4 provides an escape and helps players understand and appreciate diversity. Creating and controlling characters that reflect various human experiences fosters empathy and acceptance. It shows that games can be fun and educational, promoting the value of diversity in all its forms.
‘Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice’
“Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice” is an excellent example of strong female representation. The main character, Senua, is a well-rounded hero who just happens to be female. Her journey doesn’t focus on her gender but on her battle with psychosis, offering a deep look into mental health.
The game shows Senua dealing with hallucinations and delusions, making her struggle part of the gameplay and story. This approach helps players understand and empathize with her condition. The creators worked with experts to ensure they portrayed psychosis accurately and respectfully.
Senua’s quest to save her dead lover’s soul is both heroic and personal. She fights natural enemies and inner demons, showing great strength and bravery. This portrayal helps to destigmatize mental illness, showing it as part of a person’s life rather than defining them.
Hellblade presents Senua as a person first, making her a relatable and robust character. Her story sets a new standard for character development in gaming, proving that games can tackle complex issues with depth and sensitivity. Senua’s journey is a powerful example of how games can be inclusive and engaging.
‘Watch Dogs 2’
“Watch Dogs 2” made significant improvements in diversity compared to its predecessor. The game features Marcus Holloway, a black protagonist, which was a refreshing change. Marcus’ interactions and experiences highlight the subtleties of racism, making his character and story more engaging.
The game includes a diverse cast of characters from various backgrounds. This variety of characters emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in storytelling. Issues like subtle racism are addressed through the game’s narrative, making it more authentic and relatable.
One standout moment involves Marcus being confronted by a car’s AI that tells him his skin is too dark to scan. This scene captures the reality of subtle, everyday racism and its impact on people of color. These moments add depth to the story and help players understand different perspectives.
The game also features young, multicultural characters who come together to change the world. Their collaboration under a common ideology highlights how diverse groups can significantly impact. This representation of unity and strength through diversity is both inspiring and educational.
Conclusion
Gamers worldwide are diverse, and the characters and stories they engage with must reflect this diversity. These games provide entertainment and foster understanding and empathy, allowing players to experience different perspectives.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, seeing more games embracing inclusivity and setting new benchmarks for representation is encouraging. This trend promises a more prosperous and more inclusive future for all gamers.
— By Donald Hobson
