I love my MacBook for school related items and writing in general, but I miss having a PC. Why is this? Well, I used to play massively multiplayer online role-playing games for hours in high-school, one specifically being Neverwinter. And, believe me, as a woman who plays these games, there is a lot of recognition for female players in the video game world.
As reported by theverge.com, females make up close to half of the players for multiple types of games. This list includes: first person shooters, old school reboots and many more. But there have been some who think that women are not safe playing these games and ultimately, they are wrong.
From my own experience, I have never been uncomfortable or scared going through a dungeon with a mostly male team, and have had great conversations with people from all over the world that were on at the time. Players in these games are mostly genuine and respectful, as well as extremely competitive at times. The only negativity that has presented itself was when someone did not bother to heal their teammate. That, among other things, is a big mistake. But not playing is a mistake also.
Sure, I have read accounts of hate towards new players or trolls, which does happen. But, as long as you are a team player, there should be no problems. Your gender does not, and should not, matter to anyone. It can be a challenge playing at first as a female, especially with trolls and indecent players who fell their comments are necessary when they are not. Maybe some of you have experienced this before, and that is a reason I love these games so much: you are not technically around them.
I'm a good bit of an introvert so to be able to play with other people, while also being alone, was great. There are occasionally trolls and sometimes you really want to take your weapon to another person, but that is what one-on-one dueling is for. We learn strategy, patience, communication, and so much more from these games. It's about playing well and with a good attitude, and not about gender roles at all.
Thus, do not be afraid to play video games and never let anyone discourage you from it. Everyone can play and anyone is welcome to join. Have fun, don't give out your personal information, and kick some butt! It may not be easy at first but you will get the hang of it, I promise.
