Blog Entry #3 Sexism in Gaming-Too One-Dimensional

Since 2009, Bayonetta has been a character of controversy. Many write her off as a sexist character, appearing only for the male gaze.

Gomakemeasandwich.com agrees with this, and while I am an activist for feminist rights, I know slanted writing when I see it. Gomakemeasandwich is run by people who describe themselves as "cranky" feminists.

The author focuses on Bayonetta as a toy for the male gaze, but Bayonetta's creation goes far further than that. Designed by Mari Shimazaki, Bayonetta was created with the purpose of three specific traits: a female lead, a modern witch, and to use four guns. Bayonetta's design was, for all purposes, a power fantasy by her creator. The men of the team of Bayonetta felt they had no right designing female characters, and created the male characters, but went to Mari for help. She created what is now one of the most sexual characters in gaming.

While the authors of the article and like minded gamers have a good point, many make their point without understanding the intention of this character. I personally am not a Bayonetta, while I acknowledge her purpose, as a character, seeing a woman so sexualized creeps me out. Despite this, I acknowledge that her sexualization is not a result of the male gaze. She is a sexualized character, but there is reason behind her sexualization. She is a strong female character in the sense that is traditional and as well as a more modern take on what it means to have your own power and to take pride in your own sexuality.

 Part of my problem with the article comes from the fact that they place such importance on the male gaze as if that's the only reason why a woman can be sexy in media. Women with sexuality who show it are often looked down upon in society. You're either a whore, or a prude. It's not that simple, and simplifying a character based on her sex appeal shows that exact mentality. It's a lack of understanding as well as a misguided view.