Orientalism has stretched its roots into many parts of society, most notably the media, books, art, and film. But one way that it's influences continue to force their way into peoples minds is through video games.
The audience for video games is going to be a very different one than that of the art and literary scene. However, its effects are as potent as ever. In one example, a widely popular first person shooter, Counter Strike: Global Offensive, depicts some western views other cultures. The most popular map to play counter strike on is Dust 2(below), set in Morocco. In the game you play as either terrorists, using the media depicted infamous terrorist weapon, the AK-47, sporting head-warps and otherwise western clothes. This map shows small buildings, many facing wear and tear on the outsides. You see "traditional" rugs and vases, in a very dusty and dull tan environment.
The consequences that I think this brings with it is effect the mind of the young people who very likely have heard of Orientalism. Without knowing about this problem, the ideas that are put into the minds of the young people will be just what they digest in video games and media. This is often a false idea region and gives no depth to what is actual part of the culture.
One way that we can overcome Orientalism in video games is to dive into the culture that is depicted and give the place for game developers from other these cultures. In doing this, people can receive a more multidimensional view of an area, instead of what just comes off the top in their western portrayal in a game.
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| Counter Strike "Terrorists" |
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| Dust II, Counter Strike: Global Offensive's most popular map |
This is so real! And in video games, the only way they can present the setting is what's seen in the background so it's really important to get it right.
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