Almost all Games Further the Patriarchy vs. Get Back in the Kitchen

Today’s column is a debate between two self-identified gamers: GamHer and Trolo1o69 on sexism and gaming today.

GamHer(GH): Listen, games are, almost by definition, sexist aggression handed down by the patriarchy. First video game? Made by a man. Most games? Lead by heteronormative cisgendered males. The whole thing has been a cesspool. There have been some bright stars, like Zoë Quinn, but if it wasn’t lead and developed by mostly women, it’s definitely sexist.  And if you bought a game headed by a straight cis-gendered male, you are sexist.

Trolo1o69 (Tr): LOL, stupid broad, who let you out of the kitchen? I’m totally just joking, but really games are fine. I mean, look at games like Bayonetta and Dead or Alive, definitely some high quality portrayals of women. What we need is the crazy feminazis to go back to top less protests instead of banging betas at Kotaku.

GH: Are you even human? Women’s rights took a step back just in me reading your drivel. Look, games should empower girls, not make them feel like they have to be pretty and strong. Frankly, we need to get rid of all the thin fat shaming bodies too.  Fat is beautiful and we need to quit making people think that being fat is unhealthy or something. In fact, there’s also not enough gay females, who needs a male?

Tr: I can totally get behind more lesbians. Bikini or cat suit clad preferrably. Really, though, why can’t you be happy with the affirmative action jobs you girls already get?

GH: Oh my God I can’t even! Women don’t need this, in fact, women don’t even need men at all. I have started an online petition to have all women boycott games until the big gaming companies hire 75% female senior leadership.

Tr: What, why stop there, why not 100% women employees in all companies?

GH: Well that’s not until phase 2…

Tr: Wow, you are a crazy b**** aren’t you?

GH: You’re a pig. Where did you guys find this guy?

Tr: Hey, after this is over, could I get your email or phone number?  We could hang out sometime, maybe get dinner together?

GH: ….