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Gaming Industry Slow to Find Its Feminine Side

Under 20% of workers are women—a demographic games have barely tapped, either

By Ambreen Ali,  Newser User

Posted Oct 21, 2008 9:40 PM CDT
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(Newser) – The video-game industry has yet to really tap into the female audience, the Los Angeles Times reports, and a big reason looks to be how male-dominated the business is. Women make up fewer than 20% of the industry’s total workforce, and a mere 3% of programmers. Some fault education, while others blame a “college fraternity” atmosphere, including recruiting parties that have strippers.

One former executive points to a production cycle that can take motherhood nearly off the table for serious candidates as another reason for the disparity. But studies show that female players give higher marks to games designed by women, and as more women hit the consoles, working in the industry becomes a viable career choice.

More female employees could help video game companies attract more female consumers.
More female employees could help video game companies attract more female consumers.   (AP Photo/Richard Vogel)
Hong Kong actress Maggie Q poses while promoting Need for Speed Undercover, which features a character she portrayed. Some women say gaming companies seem like frat parties.
Hong Kong actress Maggie Q poses while promoting "Need for Speed Undercover," which features a character she portrayed. Some women say gaming companies seem like frat parties.   (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
Models show the Xbox at an exhibition. Until 2006, scantily clad booth babes were a tradition at gaming expos.
Models show the Xbox at an exhibition. Until 2006, scantily clad "booth babes" were a tradition at gaming expos.   (AP Photo/Koji Sasahara)
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It goes back to school, during those early years when you had that teacher who either encouraged you in math and science or didn't. - Gabrielle Toledano, Electronic Arts' HR exec, lamenting a near-total lack of female video-game programmers

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