The main character of all the Aliens films has always been a woman. Considering that, it was odd when reports started surfacing that the video game based on the movie franchise wouldn’t have female players. As it turns out, Aliens: Colonial Marines will in fact have female players to choose from.
The Initial Confusion
According to Gearbox, the confusion came from a Gearbox employee who stated during an interview that there were no playable female characters. Gearbox says that that employee meant there were no playable characters in the demonstration being showed at E3. This misunderstanding led to a significant amount of backlash from fans who were expecting the game to stay true to the franchise’s roots, which prominently feature strong female protagonists like Ellen Ripley.
Gearbox decided to announce that there would be playable female characters after some people became angry. The company clarified that the final version of the game would indeed include female characters, allowing players to experience the game from a female perspective, which is a crucial aspect of the Aliens universe.
Fan Reactions and Petitions
Apparently, someone set up a petition to protest the lack of female characters in the game online, which has 3800 signatures at this time. Several of the signatures are supposedly from actors and actresses from the 1986 film Aliens. This petition highlights the importance of representation in video games and how deeply fans care about staying true to the source material.
The petition not only gathered support from fans but also caught the attention of the media and industry professionals. This kind of grassroots activism showcases the power of fan communities in influencing game development. It also underscores the broader conversation about gender representation in video games, a topic that has gained increasing attention over the years.
In response to the petition and the outcry from fans, Gearbox took steps to ensure that female characters were included in the game. This decision was met with relief and approval from the fanbase, who felt that their voices had been heard and respected. The inclusion of female characters in Aliens: Colonial Marines serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and representation in gaming.
Moreover, the controversy surrounding the initial reports and the subsequent inclusion of female characters in the game can be seen as a learning moment for the industry. It highlights the need for clear communication between developers and their audience, as well as the importance of considering fan expectations and the legacy of the source material.
The inclusion of female characters in Aliens: Colonial Marines is a significant step in maintaining the integrity of the Aliens franchise. It also serves as a testament to the power of fan advocacy and the importance of representation in video games. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for developers to listen to their audience and strive for inclusivity in their creations.
via Kotaku
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