Female characters infiltrate gaming world
By Josh Zelman
CNN Headline News
 |
"No One Lives Forever 2: A Spy in H.A.R.M.'S Way"
Story Tools
|
(CNN) -- Jeanne Kim Trais, a contributor to Electronic Gaming Monthly and Computer Gaming World, told me that when it comes to video games, women can be counted on to serve up more than just eye-candy.
And if they can't -- well, in most cases, she's OK with it.
According to Trais, the topless women who do tricks on bikes in "BMX XXX" and the scantily-clad women who have a feel for each other in "Outlaw Golf" provide action which, she says, is a little over the top.
However, the clothed leading lady, Cate Archer, in "No One Lives Forever 2: A Spy in H.A.R.M.'S Way" represents a different story. Trais feels Archer packs a skull full of brains alongside her toned body and that's not such a bad combination.
As Trais sees it, whether it is in films, television or books, sex sells. So why should video games be "any different"? Trais says it's the quality of the game that matters, and "people shouldn't make an issue over gender when it is just entertainment."
"Sega Sports Tennis"
|
|
For those who feel differently, there are options.
In "Sega Sports Tennis," for instance, players smash serves at their opponents while playing as Venus or Serena Williams. In "Tony Hawk 4," gamers can skate their way to fame just like Elissa Steamer, and in "The Sims," Trais said, women are portrayed "just as they are" in real life.
Trais says it all comes down to this -- if you are going to drop $50 on a game that features characters, male or female, just make sure you're getting a game that you like.
