The Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2022 featured a panel discussion on diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry. The panel consisted of six industry leaders who discussed various topics including representation, accessibility, inclusivity, and education and training. The panel acknowledged the lack of diversity and inclusion in gaming and noted the importance of accurate representation, making games accessible to people with disabilities, creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace environment, and providing education and training on issues of diversity and inclusion. The discussion highlighted the progress made, but also emphasized the need for more work to be done to create a diverse and inclusive industry.
Gaming Industry Leaders Discuss Diversity and Inclusion at GDC 2022
Introduction
The gaming industry has been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusion in recent years. However, steps have been taken to address this issue, and the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2022 played host to a panel of industry leaders who discussed the progress made and the work that still needs to be done. This article will provide an overview of the event and the key topics that were discussed.
The Panelists
The panel featured six gaming industry leaders from various backgrounds, each with experience in addressing issues of diversity and inclusion. The panelists were:
- Jamal Duncan, Senior Vice President of People and Culture at Ubisoft
- Sheikha Tamim Al-Darwish, CEO of Qatar Esports Federation
- Theresa Duringer, Founder and CEO of Temple Gate Games
- Catherine Silvestre, Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator at Square Enix
- Robert Goff, CEO of Digipen Institute of Technology
- Dr. Jo Twist OBE, CEO of Ukie (The Association for UK Interactive Entertainment)
The Discussion
The panel discussed a wide range of topics related to diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry. Here are some of the key points that were raised.
Representation
One of the key topics discussed was representation. The panelists acknowledged that many marginalized groups are still underrepresented in gaming, but noted that progress had been made in recent years. They also discussed the importance of accurate representation and avoiding harmful stereotypes. Jamal Duncan noted that Ubisoft had been working on this issue, stating that “we’re moving away from stereotypes, we’re moving away from caricatures, and moving more towards authentic representation.”
Accessibility
Another topic that was discussed was accessibility. The panelists noted that many games are still not accessible to people with disabilities, and that this needs to change. Sheikha Tamim Al-Darwish emphasized the importance of making esports accessible, stating that “we need to make sure esports is open to everyone, regardless of physical ability.” Catherine Silvestre noted that accessibility also includes considerations for color blindness and other visual impairments, as well as neurodiversity.
Inclusivity
The panelists also discussed the importance of inclusivity. They acknowledged that the culture of the gaming industry can be exclusionary and that this needs to change. Theresa Duringer emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment in the workplace, stating that “creating an inclusive culture is not just a matter of inviting people in, but also of making sure they’re comfortable and able to stay.”
Education and Training
The panelists also discussed the importance of education and training. They emphasized the need for people in the industry to understand issues of diversity and inclusion and to be equipped to address them. Robert Goff noted that Digipen Institute of Technology has been working on this issue by incorporating diversity and inclusion training into its curriculum.
Conclusion
The panel discussion at GDC 2022 addressed important issues related to diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry. Although progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. The panelists emphasized the importance of accurate representation, accessibility, inclusivity, and education and training. It is hoped that events like this will continue to spur the gaming industry into action and create a more diverse and inclusive industry for everyone.
