There's a common impression that game development is a male-dominated field, but a study from the University of Sussex in the UK may change that perception.
Gender differences revealed by research
The research team at the University of Sussex organized a group of students aged 12 or 13 to carry out an eight-week 3D role-playing game development project. The researchers specially designed a programming language called Flip. This language has a simple interface and can help children connect events and actions in the game, just like opening a treasure chest and a piece of text will be displayed.
The research results surprised many people. In the project, girls set up an average of seven triggers in the game, which is nearly twice the number of boys in the same group. They are better at using multiple conditions and branching scenes to build complex game logic, while boys use more single, basic dialogue triggers.
The key role of Flip language
The Flip language, developed by Dr. Kate and Dr. Good, was used in this study. It not only helps children build games, but also translates written program codes into almost English statements. This design lowers the threshold for understanding programming logic and allows students to intuitively see how the stories they design are transformed into computer instructions.
The use of this "visual story" method is extremely effective. Children are not delving into abstract code syntax, but weaving an interactive story. When the trigger is activated, the program code will simultaneously present the corresponding English description, which enhances their understanding of causal logic and program structure.
The connection between literacy and programming
Dr. Good made a very important point when analyzing the conclusion. She pointed out that in primary school and junior high school, girls’ scores in literacy tests are generally more advantageous than boys. The essence of programming, especially narrative-based game development, is to integrate logical thinking with story structure.
So when girls transfer the ability to write complex stories to game design, they naturally have to design more complex programs to achieve those stories. This is not to suggest that girls are inherently better at abstract calculations, but rather that they are applying an existing advantage to a new domain.
Industry reflections triggered by research
The study, published in the academic journal "Computers and Education," shows educators and the game industry that combining programming with narrative and creative expression can more effectively inspire girls' interest in technology, strengthen their literacy and storytelling skills, and serve as a gateway for them to enter the technology field.
Beyond that, it also responds to a shift in gaming audiences. Surveys in recent years have shown that in the UK, the number of female gamers aged between 25 and 44 has exceeded that of men. Puzzle and puzzle games on smartphones are the main driving force. Not only are women gamers, but they definitely have the potential to be great creators.
The real dilemma of the game industry
However, there is a contrast between the optimistic findings of that study and the current situation of the game industry. The "Gamergate" incident that broke out around 2014 exposed the online harassment, intimidation, and professional discrimination against women within the gaming community to the public eye. Zoe Quinn, a female developer, suffered large-scale malicious attacks due to personal disputes.
This incident has caused serious damage to the image of the game industry, incurring the stigma of "misogyny". This hostile environment has caused many talented women to be afraid of entering the field of game development, resulting in a huge brain drain in the industry and a lack of creative perspective.
Looking to the future possibilities
The current situation needs to be changed and requires joint efforts from many parties. In the field of education, we can refer to the research carried out by the University of Sussex and introduce more programming courses that integrate narrative and creativity at an early stage to eliminate gender stereotypes. Companies in the industry must develop stricter anti-harassment policies to create an inclusive work environment.
The public's perception also needs to be updated. Games are not just limited to fighting or competitive confrontation. They are also another carrier of interactive art and stories. It is necessary to recognize the advantages that women can show in narrative and outstanding details in design, and to provide equal opportunities for women. Only in this way can the entire industry create more diverse and richer game works.
Are there any girls around you who are interested in game development or programming? What encouragement or prejudice have they encountered? Feel free to share your observations and stories in the comment area, and please like and support so that more valuable information can be seen.
