International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160   •   Impact Factor: 9.24

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Gender Stereotyping and Female Representation in Video Games: A Contemporary Review and Reassessment

Author(s) Ms. Saumia Takru
Country India
Abstract Video games have emerged as one of the world’s most influential cultural forms, shaping contemporary understandings of identity, power, and gender. Over the last four decades, the medium has repeatedly projected women through narrow archetypes such as the damsel in distress, the hypersexualized vixen, or the decorative sidekick, reinforcing patriarchal structures embedded within wider media culture. Recent scholarly work, however, indicates a gradual shift in representation through more complex, emotionally rich, and narratively central female characters. This review synthesizes major academic research published between 2010 and 2024 to reassess gender stereotyping in video games, examining how portrayals have evolved across genres, platforms, and industry practices. Drawing on feminist media theory, ludology, character-design analyses, and empirical player studies, the paper highlights persistent concerns-sexualization, symbolic annihilation, and limited agency-while also acknowledging the rise of subversive portrayals that challenge traditional gender norms. The review concludes by identifying patterns in contemporary game design and outlining pathways toward more equitable and inclusive representation.
Keywords Video Games, Gender Stereotyping, Female Characters, Sexualization, Representation, Feminist Game Studies, Interactive Media
Field Sociology > Journalism / Media
Published In Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On 2025-12-06
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.62888
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E-ISSN 2582-2160
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