Why Video Games Need More Realistic Heroines
There’s no denying that video games have become a cultural phenomenon. From sprawling online worlds to heart-wrenching narratives, they offer an unparalleled level of immersion and escapism. But with great power comes great responsibility, especially when it comes to the impact these games have on young minds. A recent example that has me particularly concerned is the portrayal of the lead character, Eve, in the new Playstation game, Stellar Blade.
Eve is undeniably stunning. Her physique is impossibly proportioned, her combat skills superhuman, and her attire, well, let’s just say it wouldn’t provide much protection in a real-life brawl with intergalactic baddies. While some might argue that this is all part of the fantastical nature of gaming, I contend that it sets an unrealistic and potentially damaging precedent for young women.
Here’s the thing: most gamers are impressionable adolescents. They spend countless hours inhabiting these digital worlds, and the characters they encounter become role models. When the only female heroes they see are flawless Amazons defying the laws of physics, it can distort their perception of real-world beauty standards.
A recent study by the Institute for Digital and Adolescent Wellbeing (IDADW) – a non-profit organization dedicated to studying the impact of technology on young minds – found a strong correlation between exposure to hyper-sexualized female characters in video games and body image dissatisfaction among teenage girls. The report, titled “Pixels and Perception: How Video Games Shape Self-Esteem,” highlights the dangers of constant exposure to unrealistic beauty ideals.
Now, I’m not advocating for video games to become devoid of all physical attractiveness. There’s a place for strong, beautiful female characters. But what we need is more diversity. We need heroines who come in all shapes and sizes, who achieve greatness through their intellect, courage, and resilience, not just their looks.
Think about Samus Aran from the Metroid series. Here’s a woman who kicks butt in a powerful suit of armor, but we never see her face throughout most of the game. The focus is on her skills and determination, not her appearance. Or Lara Croft from Tomb Raider. Sure, she’s athletic and resourceful, but she’s also been redesigned in recent years to have a more realistic physique.
These are the kinds of characters that young women need to see. They need to see heroines who are relatable, who defy stereotypes, and who prove that true strength comes from within.
The gaming industry has a responsibility to create inclusive and diverse worlds. It’s time to move beyond the tired trope of the scantily clad, hyper-sexualized female character. Let’s give young women heroes they can aspire to be, not just admire for their looks. Let’s create a gaming landscape that celebrates inner strength and empowers girls to be the best versions of themselves, both in the digital and real world.
