Signed by Scarlett

The introduction of ‘The Last of Us’ to our tv screens means a whole new group of people get to see powerful women on their screens.

Seeing two women as the protagonists in both games is truly incredible to see, being able to finally see women represented in the genre of games that are primarily male-oriented.

Stereotypically we see over-sexualised characters or the damsel in distress overtake the gaming industry – you might think of Lara Croft or the women in Grand Theft Auto.

However, in The Last of Us, we see Ellie, Abby, Dina and other strong women steal the show with their knowledge of fighting and strong mentalities helping to break the stereotypes of women in male-centred gaming.

Discovering through a YouTube video, the creators ‘Naughty Dog’ had to argue in order for Ellie to be on the front of the cover.

Writer and creative director of the game Neil Druckmann believed there is a misconception that a game will sell less if a woman is on the front of the cover.

Statistics would show that gaming is more popular with men, especially in certain genres, and for people not to buy a game because a girl is on the cover, truly shows there is a problem with how women are viewed within many communities.

Is there truly a reason why powerful women are seen as a problem?

It is almost as though men feel inferior if a woman is seen to help and avenge a man rather than vice versa.

Realistically it shouldn’t be a problem and yet years and years of misogyny in society have pushed the views onto other aspects of life.

This inclusion is empowering for women despite other opinions, as they are able to see themselves highlighted in such a prominent and popular game, especially since The Last of Us Part II is one of the most awarded games in history and sold almost four million copies in the first three days of being launched.

Emphasising the importance that gamers still ended up loving these games with strong women at the forefront.

Now with seeing the games be converted to the screens by HBO Max, here’s hoping that future gaming creators learn that powerful women in gaming can sell.