“ValiDate: Struggling Singles in Your Area” is a visual novel that focuses on the diverse lives of various characters, each with their own unique backgrounds and struggles. The game emphasizes representation and inclusivity, featuring characters from different races, sexual orientations, and gender identities. Playing “ValiDate” as a feminist involves engaging with these narratives to explore how the game portrays the complexities of modern relationships and identity politics through a feminist lens.
While “ValiDate” successfully brings diverse voices to the forefront, it falls short in its feminist execution by not fully leveraging feminist theories to deepen the narrative and character development. By incorporating feminist perspectives more robustly, “ValiDate” could transform from a game that merely showcases diversity to one that critically engages with power dynamics, intersectionality, and systemic issues affecting its characters.
“ValiDate” deserves praise for its commitment to representation. Characters such as Malik, who navigates the world as a Black man, or Emhari, a non-binary character, highlight the game’s dedication to showcasing diverse experiences. However, the game often stops at representation without delving into a deeper critique of the systemic issues these characters face. In “Play Like a Feminist,” Shira Chess emphasizes that feminist play is not just about inclusion but also about challenging and deconstructing existing power structures. “ValiDate” could benefit from this approach by incorporating storylines that critically examine the impact of racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination on the characters’ lives. Instead of merely depicting Malik’s experiences with microaggressions, the game could explore how these interactions affect his mental health, relationships, and career aspirations.
Kimberlé Crenshaw’s concept of intersectionality is crucial for understanding how different forms of oppression intersect. “ValiDate” attempts to address intersectionality through its diverse cast but often treats these identities in isolation. A more nuanced portrayal would involve intersecting the characters’ experiences to highlight the complexities of navigating multiple marginalized identities. For example, Emhari’s storyline could intertwine issues of gender identity with racial discrimination, showcasing how these intersecting identities affect their daily life and relationships. This approach would align with Chess’s argument that feminist play should push players to think critically about the interconnectedness of various forms of oppression.
“ValiDate” often portrays its characters as passive recipients of discrimination rather than active agents challenging these structures. Feminist theory emphasizes the importance of agency and resistance. The game could incorporate mechanics that allow players to make choices that actively resist and subvert oppressive systems. This could involve branching narratives where characters organize community support, engage in activism, or find solidarity in unexpected places.
In terms of game mechanics, “ValiDate” uses a choice-based system typical of visual novels, where players make decisions that influence the story’s outcome. This system is ripe for further development from a feminist perspective. For instance, choices could be designed not just to reflect personal preferences but to challenge systemic inequalities. Instead of merely choosing between romantic interests, players could decide how their characters respond to instances of discrimination or how they support one another in times of need. These choices could have lasting impacts on the narrative, highlighting the power of collective action and solidarity.
I recall a conversation with my friend Lizzie, who identifies as non-binary, after we both played “ValiDate.” Lizzie commented, “It’s nice to see someone like me in a game, but I wish their story did more than just show the struggles. It feels surface-level.”
I replied, “Chess’s book talks about using games to challenge power structures. What if Emhari’s story included moments where they actively resist or find support within their community? It would feel more empowering.”
“Exactly,” Lizzie said. “It’s not just about seeing ourselves but seeing ourselves fight back and find joy despite the challenges.”
To truly embody feminist principles, “ValiDate” should deepen its narrative complexity by integrating storylines that explore the systemic roots of the characters’ struggles, reflecting on how these issues are intertwined. Additionally, the game should highlight agency by creating gameplay mechanics that allow characters to actively resist oppression, making choices that lead to social change or personal empowerment. Ensuring that character arcs reflect the interconnected nature of their identities would provide a holistic view of their experiences, aligning more closely with intersectional feminist theory. Finally, balancing depictions of struggle with moments of joy, resistance, and solidarity would show that marginalized individuals are not just defined by their hardships but also by their resilience and capacity for joy.
“ValiDate” is a step in the right direction for inclusive gaming, but it needs to go further in incorporating feminist theories to create a more impactful and empowering experience. By critically engaging with power dynamics, intersectionality, and agency, the game can transform into a powerful tool for social commentary and change, aligning more closely with the principles outlined in Shira Chess’s “Play Like a Feminist.”
Discussion: How can the principles of feminist gaming, as discussed by Shira Chess in “Play Like a Feminist,” be applied to mainstream game development to not only increase representation but also challenge and deconstruct existing power structures within gaming narratives and mechanics?
