game design is a field that has seen incredible growth and evolution in recent years. From the rise of mobile gaming to the explosion of esports, the industry has become a global phenomenon that touches millions of people every day. But despite this growth, there are still significant barriers to entry for many individuals who want to be a part of it.
One of the most significant barriers is the lack of diversity and inclusion in game design. Historically, the industry has been dominated by white, male developers, leading to a limited range of perspectives and experiences being reflected in the games that are produced. This has resulted in a lack of representation for women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, among others.
However, the industry is slowly starting to break down these barriers. Many game companies are making a conscious effort to increase diversity and inclusion in their hiring practices, and there are more opportunities than ever before for underrepresented groups to break into the field.
One example of a company that is leading the charge in this area is EA Games. In 2019, they launched the EA Inclusion Initiative, which aims to improve diversity and inclusion in all aspects of the company’s operations. This includes recruiting and retaining diverse talent, creating inclusive work environments, and ensuring that the games they produce are representative of a wide range of perspectives.
Another way that the industry is working to increase diversity and inclusion is by supporting programs that help underrepresented groups get started in game design. For example, the Girls Make Games program is a summer camp that teaches young girls how to design and code their own video games. Similarly, the ESA Foundation has a scholarship program that supports women and minority students pursuing degrees in game design.
But the work is far from done. There are still many barriers that need to be broken down in order to create a truly diverse and inclusive game design industry. One of the most significant is the need for greater representation in the games themselves. While there have been some strides in this area, there is still a long way to go before all players can see themselves reflected in the characters and stories that they play.
Ultimately, the game design industry has the potential to be a powerful force for positive change in the world. By breaking down barriers and embracing diversity and inclusion, it can create games that are truly representative of the rich tapestry of human experience. And when that happens, everyone wins.