Religious themes are often used in video games to explore moral issues like sex and sexuality. While these games may be educational for some players, they can also create unrealistic expectations about romance and relationships. This essay will examine how religious-themed video games construct sexual morality and discuss their potential impact on the sexual imagination of young players.
Throughout history, video game developers have used religion as a narrative device to explore moral dilemmas. One example is the popular RPG franchise Dragon Age, which takes place in a fictional world where magic and supernatural creatures coexist with human civilization. The series' protagonist, Hawke, must navigate complicated political and personal relationships while upholding the values of his chosen faith. In one installment, Hawke falls in love with a mage named Anders but struggles with his own prejudice against magic users. The couple eventually reconciles their differences and marries, creating an idealized model of monogamous marriage that mirrors traditional Christian values.
Another popular religious-themed video game is Fable, which allows players to make choices that affect the characters' behavior and appearance. Players can choose to act virtuously or selfishly, influencing everything from their character's physical appearance to their moral standing in society. In Fable III, players can marry and procreate, raising children who inherit their parents' traits and behaviors. This mechanic reinforces the idea that good actions lead to positive outcomes, including happiness and healthy families.
These games may also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and gender roles.
Female characters are often objectified and portrayed as submissive to male characters in Dragon Age, despite having agency over their relationships. Similarly, the Fable franchise suggests that women should prioritize childrearing above all else, even if it means sacrificing their careers and independence. These unrealistic representations could create negative expectations about romance for young players.
Some video games present sexuality as something shameful or taboo, which could have long-term consequences on players' sexual imagination. In Fable II, intercourse between two consenting adults leads to pregnancy, resulting in a permanent change in the player's character model. While this mechanic encourages responsible decision-making, it sends the message that sex is inherently shameful. Other games depict homosexuality as sinful or forbidden, perpetuating stigma against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Religious-themed video games can construct sexual morality through narrative devices like marriage and family life.
They also risk promoting harmful gender roles and attitudes towards sexuality. Game developers must be mindful of how their stories impact young players, especially those still forming their views on intimacy and relationships.
How do religious-themed video games construct sexual morality, and what influence do they have on the sexual imagination of players in formative years?
Religious-themed video games often construct sexual morality through strict codes of conduct that emphasize abstinence until marriage, purity, and modesty, while condemning premarital sex as sinful. These games may also promote gender roles and traditional family structures. The influence of these games on the sexual imagination of players can vary depending on individual belief systems and cultural contexts.