In a recent report, the games industry has come under fire for maintaining narrow beauty standards that have negatively impacted the self-esteem of many women and girls.
Gamers to see first avatars with disabilities, different body types
As the world prepares to enter the metaverse, the world of gaming has found itself faced with criticism for the lack of body diversity and representation. American personal care brand, Dove, is championing the campaign to change this.
Video gamers to see first avatars with disabilities, different body types
Before Dove got on board to advocate for "virtual beauty", communities like Black Girl Gamers were heightening Black Women's voices in gaming.
Despite common perception that gaming is for men, women and girls make up 46 per cent of gamers.
Research from the campaign found that 60 per cent of girl gamers feel misrepresented and that the lack of diversity in video games is problematic. 35 per cent of young girls say that after witnessing a lack of diversity in avatars and characters, their self-esteem takes a hit.
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Furthermore, 60 per cent of young women reported that they would 6feel more confident with their appearances if they saw themselves reflected in the characters and avatars. More than 50 per cent of parents are concerned that the above-mentioned issues could harm their children's attitudes in the future.
Women in Games, an international organisation striving for equality for all women and girls in games, and the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR) have joined Dove to collaborate under the campaign that is geared to "shatter beauty stereotypes and equip the next generation of young creators and players with the tools to build self-esteem and body confidence".
Under the campaign, Dove has launched 'Real Virtual Beauty', a concept that is going to train and support game creators to reflect the diversity seen in everyday life and removes standards in design.
The end products will be displayed in a character gallery in honour of authentic and inclusive representation of females in the gaming world.
The company has also created its own video game designed to support young girls coping with low confidence using tools integrated into the game. These tools include the ability to customise avatars with different abilities, body types, body conditions and skin tones.
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