Press Start for Inclusion: A Deep Dive into Cultural Representation in Video Games

Video games have come a long way from the pixelated days of Pong and Super Mario Bros. As the industry has evolved, so too has its ability to tell rich, immersive stories that reflect the diversity of the world we live in. However, with great storytelling power comes great responsibility—especially when it comes to cultural representation.

For decades, video games have struggled with issues of stereotyping, tokenism, and erasure. But recent years have seen a push toward more authentic and inclusive portrayals of different cultures, sparking important conversations about identity, history, and the power of interactive media. So, how well are video games really doing when it comes to cultural representation? Let’s grab our controllers and take a closer look.

From Stereotypes to Nuanced Storytelling

For much of gaming history, cultural representation was often reduced to broad-stroke stereotypes. Early fighting games, for example, relied heavily on exaggerated national caricatures—think Zangief, the burly, bear-wrestling Russian from Street Fighter, or T. Hawk, the massive, stoic Native American warrior from the same franchise. Similarly, RPGs and adventure games frequently depicted Middle Eastern and Asian cultures through a lens of mysticism and exoticism rather than realism.

But as gaming narratives became more sophisticated, so too did the industry’s approach to culture. Games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Ghost of Tsushima show how cultural elements can be deeply woven into worldbuilding rather than existing as surface-level decorations. Ghost of Tsushima, in particular, was widely praised for its respectful portrayal of samurai-era Japan, with meticulous attention to historical and cultural details.

The Power of Playable Diversity

One of the most direct ways video games can promote cultural representation is through playable characters. For years, the gaming world was dominated by white, male protagonists—think Master Chief (Halo), Nathan Drake (Uncharted), or Geralt of Rivia (The Witcher). While these characters have their appeal, their ubiquity meant that many players never saw themselves reflected in the games they played.

Thankfully, this is changing. Games like Assassin’s Creed Origins introduced Bayek, a Black protagonist from ancient Egypt, while Horizon Forbidden West features Aloy, a strong female lead inspired by Indigenous cultures. Meanwhile, Spider-Man: Miles Morales gives players the chance to step into the shoes of a biracial hero whose Afro-Latino identity is integral to the story, rather than just a background detail.

Beyond just including diverse protagonists, some games allow players to craft their own identities. Titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Baldur’s Gate 3 offer robust character customization options, allowing players to define their race, gender, and background. While this doesn’t replace meaningful storytelling about cultural identity, it does give players the freedom to see themselves reflected in the game world.

The Fine Line Between Appreciation and Appropriation

One of the biggest challenges in cultural representation is avoiding appropriation. Games often borrow aesthetics, mythology, and traditions from various cultures, but when done carelessly, this can lead to misrepresentation. A notable example is Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, a game set in a fictionalized version of Sengoku-era Japan, developed by a Japanese studio (FromSoftware). While it was largely praised for its historical accuracy, some Western critics debated whether non-Japanese players could fully appreciate its cultural nuances.

The key difference between appreciation and appropriation often comes down to intent and execution. Games like Never Alone, which was developed in collaboration with Alaska Native storytellers, show how partnerships with cultural experts can lead to authentic and respectful representation. By contrast, games that simply lift elements from real-world cultures without context—such as generic "tribal" aesthetics in fantasy RPGs—can feel exploitative rather than celebratory.

Representation Behind the Scenes

Cultural representation in games isn’t just about what appears on-screen—it also matters who’s behind the screen. Historically, the gaming industry has been dominated by Western developers, which has shaped the types of stories being told. But as more diverse voices enter the industry, we’re seeing richer, more varied narratives emerge.

Indie games, in particular, have been a driving force for better representation. Games like Raji: An Ancient Epic, developed by an Indian studio, bring underrepresented mythologies and histories to the forefront. Similarly, Never Alone was developed by Indigenous creators to share the folklore of the Iñupiat people. These games prove that when cultural narratives are told by those who live them, the result is more authentic and impactful.

The Future of Cultural Representation in Gaming

As video games continue to grow as a storytelling medium, the demand for authentic representation will only increase. Developers who fail to adapt risk alienating players who crave stories that reflect their own experiences. At the same time, the industry must be mindful of avoiding tokenism—simply including diverse characters isn’t enough if their stories aren’t given depth and care.

The future of gaming representation lies in collaboration. When studios work with cultural consultants, hire diverse development teams, and engage with communities, they create experiences that resonate on a deeper level. The goal isn’t just to check a diversity box—it’s to craft worlds that feel real, alive, and inclusive to all players.

In the end, cultural representation in video games isn’t just about who gets to be the hero—it’s about whose stories are being told, and how. As gaming moves forward, one thing is clear: the industry is finally starting to level up.