GLAAD Gaming Report: Advocating for LGBT+ Representation in Video Games
In a groundbreaking report released by GLAAD, the global leader in advocating for LGBT+ representation, it has been revealed that despite nearly one in five gamers identifying as members of the LGBT+ community, the representation of LGBT+ storylines and characters in video games remains shockingly low, accounting for less than two percent of all games.
The report, conducted in collaboration with market research company Nielson, highlights a significant increase in the number of LGBT+ gamers over the past three years. Previously, Nielson reported that 10 percent of gamers identified as LGBT+, but that number has now risen to 17 percent, marking a substantial 70 percent increase.
Interestingly, the report also reveals that the majority of players identifying as LGBT+ are younger individuals under the age of 35. This can be attributed to the higher levels of acceptance experienced within this age range.
However, despite the growing number of LGBT+ gamers, the report uncovers a disheartening reality. Games featuring LGBT+ characters and storylines account for less than two percent of titles available on popular gaming platforms such as Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo digital libraries. On Steam, the percentage slightly increases to 2.5 percent but drops to a mere 1.7 percent when excluding adult-only games.
It is important to note that the research conducted by GLAAD and Nielson was based on filtering games using the LGBT+ tag on each store. Therefore, some games that do not have this specific tag may not have been included in the analysis. For instance, Baldur’s Gate 3 on Steam does not have an LGBT+ tag but does feature LGBT+ relationships.
The report goes beyond statistics and delves into the significance of representation in video games. It reveals that 72 percent of LGBT+ players feel better about themselves when they see characters that align with their gender identity or sexual orientation. Additionally, 68 percent express a desire for more prominent LGBT+ storylines in games.
Moreover, gaming provides an outlet for self-expression and exploration of identity for many LGBT+ players. The report indicates that 66 percent of LGBT+ gamers feel that games allow them to express themselves in ways they cannot in reality. Furthermore, 36 percent of LGBT+ players credit gaming for helping them discover their sexuality, while 11 percent use games as a means to escape difficult situations in the real world.
However, the report also sheds light on a distressing issue faced by LGBT+ gamers – harassment. A staggering 52 percent of LGBT+ players have experienced harassment while playing online, compared to 38 percent of non-LGBT+ players. This has led to 42 percent of LGBT+ players avoiding certain games out of fear of harassment, and 27 percent quitting games altogether due to the same reason.
In response to these findings, the GLAAD report calls for inclusive representation and acceptance of LGBT+ individuals in the gaming industry. It emphasizes that the percentage of games featuring LGBT+ representation should be proportional to the share of LGBT+ players. Additionally, the report urges the games industry to take responsibility for fostering inclusive communities by hiring more LGBT+ individuals in positions of authority throughout the industry.
Blair Durkee, associate director of gaming at GLAAD, emphasizes the benefits of LGBTQ inclusion in video games, stating, “As this report shows, the presence of LGBTQ characters or storylines doesn’t meaningfully deter non-LGBTQ people from buying or playing games, but it makes a huge difference to LGBTQ gamers.” Durkee further adds that despite progress, the gaming industry still lags behind other forms of entertainment media when it comes to representation.
The GLAAD report was conducted in collaboration with Nielson and surveyed 1452 self-reported PC/console gamers based in the United States. For those interested in delving deeper into the findings, the full report is available on the GLAAD website.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial that it reflects the diversity of its audience. The GLAAD Gaming Report serves as a wake-up call for game developers and publishers to embrace inclusivity and create games that truly represent the rich tapestry of the gaming community. By doing so, they not only cater to the desires and needs of LGBT+ players but also contribute to a more accepting and diverse gaming landscape.