The times when women in games only functioned as visual add-ons are unfortunately not over. But there are some female characters that offer depth, and we can identify with them. They offer us a role model in some cases, in others they show us the depths of humanity. Women in games are more than just nice to look at, and you shouldn't mess with them carelessly!
Here are our favorite female characters from over the years, enjoy!
Lara Croft – Tomb Raider
In 2013, the famous series "Tomb Raider" risked a new beginning. And it was obvious that Lara Croft — one of the most iconic video game protagonists ever — had been visually changed. Her comically large breasts and narrow waist gave way to the realistic body of a young woman. Her character also experienced a noticeable change. From a frightened girl, she evolved into a self-confident adventurer.But she also shows compassion and friendship towards her allies, and we also get glimpses of her thoughts in the progression of the game series.
Aloy – Horizon Zero Dawn
In the open-world adventure Horizon Zero Dawn, you experience a post-apocalyptic world that is dominated by machines. The story focuses on Aloy, who is raised by her outcast foster father. Aloy has been an excellent archer since her childhood and doesn't let even the biggest and most dangerous machines stop her.
In search of her origins and the secrets of this world, she is always sympathetic, helpful and charming to the residents.
Senua – Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Hellblade is an absolutely amazing game that seriously deals with mental health issues. Senua makes the journey to Hellheim after Vikings attack her village and kill her beloved. There she hopes to redeem the soul of Dillion.She is plagued by her own inner darkness, which manifests physically in the world around her through visions and internally as voices that haunt her. Again and again, she has to fight her own demons to finish the quest. Audiovisually, this game is truly unique, as is the way it deals with the mental health issues of a young woman.
Max – Life is Strange
In this adventure game, you'll take on the role of Max, a young photography student who suddenly discovers that she has time travelling abilities. You'll experience the adventure through dialogs with other people, you'll enjoy the unique aesthetic reflected in her photographs, and you'll reject violence.
The game portrays and celebrates a wide range of character traits through numerous female characters. And strength is associated with the most diverse qualities. What's not to love?
Samus Aran – Metroid
Back to one of the biggest icons in video game history. With her first appearance going as far back as 1986, Samus is one of the first female protagonists in video game history. She's not just a historically significant character, she's also an absolute badass. In over a dozen games, Samus has faced all kinds of dangerous enemies, hazardous environments and insurmountable challenges — and always comes out on top.
Samus was actually not supposed to be a woman at first. The manual for the original game refered to the character as a man, in the English translation as well as the Japanese original. If you managed to beat the game in record time, Samus would remove her helmet to reveal that she is actually a woman, as the devs thought this would be a big surprise.
Ironically, Samus has strongly contributed to female protagonists in games not being surprising or shocking anymore.
Malenia – Elden Ring
Malenia is arguably one of the most feared video game characters of all-time. As the secret hidden boss in Elden Ring, she has caused pain for millions of players, trying to beat the formidable and fearless warrior. She is a demigod, revered for her unmatched swordsmanship and devastating power.
While Malenia is extremely strong, she is also a tragic figure. In trying to stop the curse of the Scarlet Rot, she herself became inflicted with the poison and was unable to fight off the army of Radahn and to save her brother Miquella. Malenia is not just a powerful badass, she is a very complex character with a deep and moving story.
What Characterizes Strong Women In Video Games?
In many popular games, women are taking on heroic roles. They fight on the battlefront, are skilled in the use of weapons and melee combat, and bravely defy their fate, and are almost impossible to distinguish from their male colleagues. This is a huge victory for the industry. In this way, games convey that women are just as capable of fighting, bravely solving the worst tasks, and even saving the whole world, just like men.
But we need even more diversity from female characters. Realistic or fantastic, smart or stupid, we want to see more authentic women in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes they have their goals in mind, sometimes they don't — we just hope to keep seeing more real women in video games.
