Dynamic Demographics - Lessons from a Large-Scale Census of Performative Possibilities in Games

Explore a comprehensive analysis of character representation in video games through this 21-minute conference talk from the ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems. Delve into the findings of a large-scale census examining playable characters across 200 contemporary games, including both indie and AAA titles released since 2005. Discover how the study not only provides insights into the landscape of character representation but also highlights the complex, negotiated nature of representation in gaming. Learn about the challenges in quantifying representation and the importance of viewing it as a possibility space for multiple interpretations rather than a singular, measurable phenomenon. Gain valuable perspectives on the methodological considerations for researchers studying representation in games and the implications for understanding diversity in interactive media.