The recent review bombing of Horizon Forbidden West’s DLC, Burning Shores, is a prime example of the impact that homophobia can have on the games industry. The DLC, which allows players to choose to have Aloy kiss a woman named Seyka, was met with a wave of negative reviews from homophobic gamers. These reviews, which were often low-effort and poorly written, accused the game of being “woke propaganda” and “shoving LGBTQ+ content down our throats.”
The review bombing of Burning Shores is just one example of the many ways that homophobia can impact the games industry. Homophobic gamers have been known to harass and threaten LGBTQ+ developers and players, and they have even been known to boycott games that feature LGBTQ+ characters. This type of behavior can create a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ people in the games industry, and it can discourage them from participating in the community.
The games industry is slowly becoming more inclusive, but there is still a long way to go. Homophobic gamers need to be made aware of the impact that their behavior can have on others, and they need to be educated about the importance of representation in games. Only then can we create a truly inclusive gaming community for everyone.
Here are some things that the games industry can do to combat homophobia:
Educate developers and players about the importance of representation. Many people in the games industry are unaware of the impact that homophobia can have on LGBTQ+ people. By educating developers and players about the importance of representation, we can create a more inclusive gaming community for everyone.
Create more LGBTQ+ characters in games. The more LGBTQ+ characters there are in games, the more normalized LGBTQ+ identities will become. By creating more LGBTQ+ characters, we can help to break down the stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ people.
Stand up to homophobia in the games industry. If you see someone being homophobic in the games industry, speak up. Let them know that their behavior is not acceptable. By standing up to homophobia, we can create a more inclusive gaming community for everyone.
We all have a role to play in creating a more inclusive gaming community. By educating ourselves, creating more LGBTQ+ characters, and standing up to homophobia, we can make a difference.
Representation is important in all forms of media, but it is especially important in games. Games are a form of escapism, and they allow players to experience different worlds and different identities. When players see themselves represented in games, it can help them to feel more accepted and validated.
For LGBTQ+ people, representation in games can be especially important. LGBTQ+ people are often underrepresented in media, and they can feel isolated and alone. When they see LGBTQ+ characters in games, it can help them to feel like they are not alone, and it can give them hope for the future.
There are a number of ways to create more LGBTQ+ representation in games. One way is to create more LGBTQ+ characters. Another way is to include LGBTQ+ themes and storylines in games. Finally, developers can make their games more inclusive by providing options for LGBTQ+ players, such as the ability to choose their character’s pronouns and sexual orientation.
By creating more LGBTQ+ representation in games, we can help to create a more inclusive and welcoming gaming community for everyone.
If you see someone being homophobic in the games industry, speak up. Let them know that their behavior is not acceptable. You can do this by reporting them to the game’s developers, by posting about it on social media, or by simply speaking to them directly.
By standing up to homophobia, you can help to create a more inclusive gaming community for everyone. You can also help to educate others about the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in games.
