This Gay Video Game Pays Tribute to Old Absurd Stereotypes
Ashley Noelle Lesiak — December 10, 2013 — Naughty
References: ultimategayfighter & fastcocreate
A new gay video game called 'Ultimate Gay Fighter' is launching in January. No, I'm not using a slur to say it looks bad, this game is literal very queer. All the character are gay stereotypes like "Twink," "Drag Queen," "Lady Lover" and "Bear." Knocking your opponent out isn't a fatality, it's a "Gaytality."
The creator Michael Venker made this gay video game with good intentions. Venker is also gay and he created the game to respond to the fact that, although homosexuals have a lot of consumer clout, there are very few video games marketed to them.
The offensive stereotypes are meant to be tongue-in-cheek and a send up to old combat games that also showed very one-dimensional stereotypes of their characters. Said Venker "Fighting games, and video games in general, have a running reputation of being very stereotypical in their character portrayals--whether it's how they draw women, or how they represent minorities. My game is merely a play off of what has come before, while at the same time, I kind of view it as a celebration of my gay brothers and sisters."
The creator Michael Venker made this gay video game with good intentions. Venker is also gay and he created the game to respond to the fact that, although homosexuals have a lot of consumer clout, there are very few video games marketed to them.
The offensive stereotypes are meant to be tongue-in-cheek and a send up to old combat games that also showed very one-dimensional stereotypes of their characters. Said Venker "Fighting games, and video games in general, have a running reputation of being very stereotypical in their character portrayals--whether it's how they draw women, or how they represent minorities. My game is merely a play off of what has come before, while at the same time, I kind of view it as a celebration of my gay brothers and sisters."
Trend Themes
1. Inclusive Video Games - There is a growing demand for video games that represent the LGBTQ+ community, providing an opportunity for game developers to create more inclusive games.
2. Stereotype Satire - Satirical gay video games that play off of old stereotypes can still be offensive, but they can also be seen as a clever way to subvert and critique harmful depictions of marginalized groups.
3. LGBTQ+ Representation in Popular Culture - As more video games, TV shows, and movies include LGBTQ+ characters and storylines, it has become clear that representation of marginalized identities is becoming more mainstream and profitable.
Industry Implications
1. Video Game Development - As video games become more inclusive and diverse, game developers have the opportunity to create products that represent a wider range of identities and experiences.
2. LGBTQ+ Marketing and Advertising - As the LGBTQ+ community gains visibility and consumer clout, there is a growing need for more targeted marketing and advertising strategies that authentically represent the community.
3. Entertainment and Media - As consumers demand more diversity and representation in entertainment media, companies in the industry have the opportunity to create more inclusive content and appeal to a wider audience.
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