I've griped before about the unequal, objectified position of female characters in video games. Never have I come across a video game that passes the "Bechdel Test." The Bechdel test evaluates the female presence in movies and whether or not they are concerned with anything other than men. Let me explain this test (or, if you'd rather, watch this explanatory Bechdel test video on youtube): to pass the test, a film, television show, or video game must include the following:
1. Two or more female characters with names.
2. Two women must talk to each other.
3. Two women must have a conversation about something other than men.
That shouldn't be too difficult, right? I'm sure you can think of a few movies, but it's surprising how many don't pass the test. Even in movies with strong female leads, you might find that character talks only or mostly to men. Watch the video if you want to see a list of a large number of movies which surprisingly do not pass. But we're talking about video games here. Can you think of one? Can you think of two? I admit that I could not, though I'm sure you'll all dig up a few I've forgotten about. Tune in tomorrow for my review of a new game that does pass, and also provides some truly epic gaming moments.
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