In Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas there was uproar over a hidden sex scene. Now with their latest release called "Bully", we see boys kissing. How far should this be taken and when should the appropriate regulatory bodies step in?
Implications - The game features a 15-year-old character named Jimmy Hopkins as its protagonist. The game's mechanics involve tasking players with navigating social pitfalls, fights and romantic interests with Jimmy at his school. The latter approach can be used towards male or female NPC's (non player characters) -- a move that has drawn praise from gay video game enthusiasts around the world. In fact, according to UBS figures "Bully" was the third top-selling game in the US during the week of October 27th.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- LGBTQ+ Representation in Video Games
- As more video games strive for inclusivity, there is an opportunity for disruptive innovation in creating games that center around LGBTQ+ characters and storylines
- Social Skill and Relationship-building Games
- Games like 'Bully' that focus on navigating social situations could offer opportunities to create games that teach important social skills and relationship-building in a fun and interactive way
- Regulatory Oversight of Video Games
- As video games continue to depict sensitive topics, there is a need for regulatory bodies to step in and ensure ethical practices are followed in game development and content creation
Industries Being Reshaped
- Video Game Industry
- The industry has an opportunity to expand the types of games offered beyond traditional genres and demographics to create more inclusive and educational games for all players
- Education Industry
- Interactive and educational video games like 'Bully' could create opportunities in the education industry as teaching tools for social skills and relationship-building
- Media and Entertainment Industry
- There is an opportunity for the industry to explore and produce more media content that depicts the LGBTQ+ community and their stories with authenticity and respect
