The topic of sexism in the confines of video games is a regular topic around these parts. And we've seen plenty of examples of game developers and publishers who demonstrate to the rest of the world that, despite some significant advances in just the last few years alone, we still have a ways to go.
Which is why the following video is so noteworthy, as well as frankly distressing. It's a fairly recent clip created by Valve, as part of their CS:GO Pro Tip Series which has seasoned Counter-Strike: Global Offensive players offering helpful tips.
This particular clip features Heather Mumm, aka sapphiRe, and unlike most parties, Valve seems treats her like any other gamer. Her gender is a total non-issue; again, it's a Counter-Strike: Global Offensive expert offering suggestions and insight. One who happens to be a woman:
Often times you'll seem similar efforts who think they're doing everyone a favor by emphasizing that a woman in the center of the proceedings, and often it veers into the territory of pandering or sensationalizing. Even if it wasn't the intention.
So big ups to Valve for producing such a solid effort. Even if it's resulting in a predictable amount of irrational hate from various males in the audience.
The tale is in the tape, i.e. the YouTube comments section. Most of which is rather cringe worthy. Highlights include:
>woman
>pro player
pick one.
f*ck bitches
shouldn't play csgo
but she's clearly not in the kitchen
WTF why is a girl giving me tips on how to play a video game?
Thankfully, there are a few commenters who don't seem to hate Heather and women in general irrationally. Even if their language if is equally offensive at times:
…. Those dislikes are because she is a girl… isn't it? Stereotypical morons… :\
This is why you fucking losers are never going to get a girl. Bunch of sexist, good for nothing losers. Can't get a girl for the life of you so you take it out on the entire sex instead of looking at your douchebag selves as the reason.
You guys worship a man who gives tips.
But when its a woman, you guys turn into instant literal fagg*ts.
These tips aren't for pros. They're for beginners.
Jesus Christ you people are idiots
Perhaps most distressing of all is how this commented was flagged for spam, despite asking a fairly legit question:
Why is there a women's tournament in E-sports? I see no reason to separate men and women in a sport where physical strength doesn't matter.
Once again, Valve should be commended for the video and hopefully other parties will follow suit. Even if a certain portion of the popular will not understand (because they never will).
