8.3 Cultural Representation and Appropriation in Games

Video games have become a powerful medium for cultural representation, but they often struggle with authenticity. From stereotypical characters to misused symbols, many games fail to accurately portray diverse cultures, leading to harmful misrepresentations and perpetuating stereotypes.

However, the industry is evolving. Some developers now prioritize authentic representation by collaborating with cultural experts, creating diverse teams, and developing complex characters. These efforts aim to foster understanding, respect, and inclusivity in gaming.

Understanding Cultural Representation in Video Games

Cultural appropriation in video games

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• Adoption of cultural elements without understanding or respect led to misuse of traditions, symbols, and practices in game design
• Manifests through stereotypical characters, misrepresented cultural practices, exploited sacred symbols, and oversimplified complex cultural elements (Native American headdresses in fighting games)
• Often occurs when developers lack diverse perspectives or fail to consult with cultural experts during game creation

Representation in game settings and narratives

• Positive representations accurately portray cultural practices, include diverse characters with depth, and involve cultural consultants in development (Never Alone, Assassin's Creed: Origins)
• Misrepresentations include stereotypical depictions of indigenous peoples, orientalist portrayals of Asian cultures, and exoticization of African and Latin American settings (Tomb Raider series)
• Cultural misrepresentation in narratives affects storylines, influences player perceptions, and can reinforce harmful stereotypes or cultural misconceptions

Impact on marginalized communities

• Psychological effects reinforce harmful stereotypes and create feelings of alienation or exclusion among players from represented cultures
• Social consequences perpetuate cultural misunderstandings and potentially increase discrimination in real-world interactions
• Economic implications include lack of representation in game development industry and missed opportunities for authentic cultural products
• Community responses involve boycotts against offensive games and advocacy for better representation in gaming (Resident Evil 5 controversy)

Strategies for authentic cultural representation

• Research and consultation involve collaborating with cultural experts and community members to ensure accuracy and respect
• Diverse development teams hire developers from various cultural backgrounds and promote inclusive work environments
• Narrative approaches avoid stereotypical tropes and develop complex, multidimensional characters that reflect cultural nuances
• Design considerations ensure accurate representation of cultural artifacts and symbols, and respectful depiction of traditional practices
• Player education includes informative content about represented cultures and provides context for cultural elements within the game
• Feedback and iteration seek input from cultural communities during development and remain open to criticism for necessary changes