Video games, and online games have been around for decades and yet for much of that time, (even in the real gaming world), the industry has always been male dominated. And the women have been largely underrepresented in the gaming world, both as game developers and as players.
However, in a true, current and educated world, there has been a push for more diversity and inclusivity in gaming, and many people are starting to recognise the importance of women in the industry. That’s why we have now decided to write on the contribution of Women In iGaming and how this addition will contribute to the diversification or the change in the iGaming Industry?
Why is diversity important in online gaming?
Diversity in the workplace, society, or let say in the home as well, has always been a contributor to the change and hopefully for the good. Here are some of the major factors why diversity in online gaming world, will be beneficial:
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More Smart Minds Generates More Ideas
The more people (irrespective of their gender, class, caste, or color) you deal with, you come across many different ideas. It helps to broaden the range of stories and perspectives in the virtual gaming world. A team of unique characters can bring their unique experiences and ideas to the table, resulting in games that are interesting, varied, and can be remembered for years. Lastly, contributing to increased revenue for game companies.
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Get Ready To Welcome All Gamers Across The Globe
Creating and encouraging women in the igaming world, isn’t only about generating revenue. Moreover, you may end up creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all gamers, of all gender, race, or countries. By embracing diversity, gaming companies can help beat combat toxic and exclusionary behavior that has plagued the gaming community for years.
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Introduction Of More Female Characters In Games Make Women Feel Strong
Historically, female characters in video games have been relegated to roles like a helpless girl who got trapped or the sexy sidekick. But in recent years, there has been a push for more female leads in games like PUBG or Tekken. And it is one good change that helps to break down stereotypes & encourages them. On the other hand, when girls & women see themselves represented in games, they feel interested, powerful, and relate like gaming is something that is meant for them.
Of course, featuring more female characters in games is only the first step. It’s also important to avoid harmful stereotypes of characters that are well-rounded and believable. Hiring female writers and designers who can be their voice and bring life to these characters.
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Create A Safer and Supportive Environment for Women Who Want To Game
Everyone is getting inclined towards online gaming and the NUMBERS justifies it all.
Even though it’s the 21st century, the majority of the world is educated, women are running companies and ruling countries. But women, in particular, have faced and are still facing harassment and discrimination in gaming, both online and offline.
One way the gaming companies can promote diversity in gaming is by hiring more women in game development and other roles. This will help to create a safer and more supportive environment for women who want to game. It can ensure that their voices are heard and needs and preferences are taken into account.
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Getting and Valuing Their Feedbacks Will Make Your Game Go Strong
Finally, it’s important to listen to women who are already involved in gaming and to take their feedback and concerns seriously. This means creating safe spaces for women & taking action when women report instances of harassment or discrimination in gaming is equally important. By listening to women and valuing their contributions to gaming, we can help to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.
The Blog isn’t Finished Yet!
With this blog of ours, we wanted to take a moment to add Five Special Mentions of some of the most influential women in the gaming industry:
Five Influential Women in the iGaming Industry
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SIOBHAN REDDY
Siobhan Reddy, a member of BAFTA’s games committee, is a well-known figure in the gaming business. She is the driving force behind Media Molecule, a computer game development firm that generated the multi-award-winning game ‘Little Big Planet’. She has received the Production Award at the inaugural Microsoft Women in Gaming Awards in 2009.
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AMY HENNING
Amy Hennig, video game writer and director, is credited with the Legacy of Kain games and the Uncharted series. Edge magazine named Hennig one of the most prominent women in the gaming business. She received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 Games Developers Choice Awards.
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POOJA KHATRI
Another well-known female gamer who streams and makes video is Pooja Khatri. With over 618k subscribers on her official YouTube channel, the Delhi-based gamer has a keen interest in a wide range of games and enjoys interacting with her fans. She is well-known for her live gaming streams of PUBG, GTA 5, Among Us, and War Zone.
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KIM SWIFT
Kim Swift, a well-known video game designer, oversaw the team of game designers and developers responsible for the multi-award winning game Portal. She is also well-known for her work in the video games Left 4 Dead and Half-Life 2: Episode 2. Portal is one of fourteen games to be permanently installed in the Museum of Modern Art.
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JADE RAYMOND
Jade Raymond is best known for creating the video games Assassin’s Creed and Assassin’s Creed II. Following the success of both of these games, Raymond went on to become the managing director of the newly formed Ubisoft Toronto Studio, and then to EA to lead its Star Wars strategy as SVP of Motive Studios. She is currently a Vice President at Google.
Bottomline
In conclusion,the contribution & involvement of women in the iGaming industry, both as game developers and as players is very crucial. By promoting diversity and inclusivity in gaming, we can create games that are more interesting, engaging, and profitable, as well as a more welcoming and supportive environment for all gamers.
