In this volume of The Xsolla Report, experts explore the growing influence of women in gaming.
The conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion has become increasingly central to the evolution and transformation of the games industry.
Jordan Fragen, an author for GamesBeat at VentureBeat
Xsolla: How has the representation of women in the gaming industry evolved over the years?
Xsolla: What are some of the most significant barriers women still face in the gaming industry today?
Jordan Fragen: I think there are many preconceived notions about the games industry that people have on whether it's welcoming to women or not. It's encouraging to see more qualified women in executive positions.
In my experience, having industry-experienced mentors makes it easier to address unique challenges women face in gaming – whether that's professional advice or just talking about what it's like to be a woman in games. And as the years go by, we're going to see women who have advanced their careers in the industry, and that’s going to contribute to a cultural change in a way that constructs an environment that helps women succeed and reduces barriers for them to achieve that success.
Xsolla: What can be done to encourage more diversity and inclusion within the gaming industry?
Jordan Fragen: I truly believe that those who have a genuine love for games will thrive in this industry. To make the workforce as inclusive and diverse as possible, it's crucial that those entering the field are driven by their passion for the medium and can connect with others over that shared love. Working in games, I've always appreciated the common ground we all have, even if we don't play the same titles. There's a universal understanding of what it's like to be a gamer that creates a unique bond.
Building healthy relationships in the workforce is about finding commonalities, whether through shared experiences or hobbies, and this holds true across industries. The games industry is fortunate in that nearly everyone is a gamer, and fostering a safer and more inclusive environment comes down to nurturing those relationships and those experiences.
The gaming industry has witnessed a significant surge in female gamers, who constituted about 50% of the gaming audience in the US in 2023. This surge in female gamers is not only a testament to the industry's broad appeal but also highlights the increasing spending power held by women.
Beyond the principles of inclusivity and fairness, the inclusion of women in gaming brings about several significant advantages that contribute to the industry's growth, innovation, and overall health.
Aisyah Ambok, Women in Games WIGJ Ambassador/Leadership team
Broader market appeal. With women constituting almost half of the gaming market and over half of the global population, their inclusion in the gaming industry is not just a matter of representation but a strategic move to tap into a significant consumer base. Game developers who understand and cater to the preferences of female gamers gain a competitive edge, as diverse gaming experiences attract a broader audience, ultimately expanding the market and increasing revenue potential.
Informed game development. Having women actively involved in the development process provides valuable insights into the preferences and behaviors of female gamers. This understanding is crucial for creating games that resonate with women, considering their distinct reasons for engaging in gaming. In countries like France, where studies reveal that women predominantly play games for competition or self-challenge, incorporating these insights ensures that games are tailored to meet the specific needs and desires of the target audience.
Revenue potential. The unique reasons drawing women to gaming provide valuable insights for game developers. Including women in the development process is crucial for industry inclusivity and unlocking the revenue potential of this growing customer base.
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