Lecture: Roles and Representations of Women in Video Games

Overview

• Series exploring tropes and patterns associated with women in video games.
• Aim: Critical analysis of beloved games while acknowledging problematic aspects.

Introduction to the Damsel in Distress Trope

• Historical context of the trope in media and mythology.
• Commonly involves female characters placed in peril from which they cannot escape, requiring rescue by a male hero.
• Frequent plot device in video games, often through kidnapping.

Case Study: Dinosaur Planet and Star Fox Adventures

• 1999: Rare's Dinosaur Planet featured a strong female protagonist, Krystal.
• Redesigned as Star Fox Adventures, Krystal became a Damsel in Distress.
• Example of how female characters are disempowered.

Historical Context of the Damsel in Distress

• Ancient Greek mythology: Example of Perseus and Andromeda.
• Middle Ages: Common in medieval songs, legends, and fairy tales.
• Early 20th century film: Became a cliché in American cinema.
• Influences: Popeye, King Kong, and early arcade games.

Nintendo and the Damsel in Distress

• Shigeru Miyamoto's Donkey Kong: 'The Lady' as the Damsel.
• Mario series: Princess Peach as a recurring Damsel character.
• Zelda series: Princess Zelda often disempowered despite some active roles.

Objectification and Subject/Object Dichotomy

• Damsel trope often objectifies women, making them prizes in men's narratives.
• Women become objects rather than active participants.

Modern Examples and Revivals

• Old games with Damsel tropes are being revived for modern platforms.
• Examples: Sonic CD, Karateka, Dragon's Lair, Double Dragon.

Cultural Implications

• Reinforces sexist beliefs about women needing protection.
• Popular culture influences societal attitudes.

Conclusion and Call to Action

• Importance of critically assessing games we love.
• Potential for developers to evolve and create female heroes.
• Preview of further discussion on modern games in Part Two of the series.

Acknowledgments

• Thank you to Kickstarter backers for supporting the project.