Abstract
The representation of Black characters in video games remains a contested space, shaped by industry practices, player reception, and broader socio-political narratives. This research employs a multi-method qualitative framework—including in-depth interviews with industry professionals, immersive gameplay analysis, and online ethnographic observations,—to critically examine Black representation in 8th and 9th generation video games. By triangulating developer intentions, player discourse, and in-game representation, this study interrogates whether progress in diversity translates into meaningful character development, narrative depth, and equitable player agency. Findings might reveal possible tensions between industry rhetoric and player experience, highlighting recurring tropes, community-driven modifications, and gaps in representation. This paper discusses key insights from the study, emphasising the necessity for continued critical engagement with race, digital culture, and gameplay.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Game studies Mechanics, Dynamics and Aesthetics MDA Media Gameplay Representation
