What It Means and Takes to Be a Female Gamer

Being a female gamer in a generally male dominated hobby is definitely an art form. To be a female gamer requires some serious skill and an ability to overlook ignorance. I have been a female gamer for quite some time now, and I know all too well what is required to be a female gamer. As soon as the male players find out you are a female, the exchange of remarks begins. Men start with everything from the inappropriate remarks, to just plain attacking you for being a woman. Men still can't handle a woman being a gamer as well. They think as soon as a female enters the game, it automatically gives them the right to act like a pig.

To be a female gamer, you must be prepared for an onslaught of remarks; from the vulgar to the just straight up offensive. In being a female in a male dominated culture, they automatically assume you’re a boy going through puberty. Being ready for the harassment is one of the best skills a female can possess in her arsenal. One must be prepared to be kicked from several games, or have players leave the game. To survive as a female gamer, you must be confident in yourself, your skills, have thick skin, and be fearless.

Most men assume just because I am a female, I will just back down and assume my position on the totem pole. However, I make a point to have these men understand that despite my sex, I can hang with the boys. Insult me, act vulgar, do whatever you may want, it just fuels me to do better. I don't hesitate to come right back at the guys as hard, if not harder, then they come out at me. Through these tactics a female can become a successful and respected gamer amongst most male gamers. In addition, you can't be afraid to speak your mind, you need to be willing to stand up for yourself. Taking things too personally will not get you anywhere in the gaming society.

Granted not all male gamers are such pigs. However, the general majority of them are. On my journey I have met a few respectable male gamers. Much like female gamers are hard to find, males who will respect you are just as hard, if not harder to find. It goes back to the whole “find the needle in the haystack” saying.