The lack of visibility and opportunities has long been a hurdle for women aspiring to be accepted and recognised in the world of esports. Video games, initially perceived as a male-dominated activity, imposed persistent stereotypes. However, these stereotypes are beginning to crumble, thanks to the numerous women investing themselves daily in the world of esports.
In Luxembourg, women also play a crucial role in this fight. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we gave a voice to the female figures of POST Esports Masters: Chishiya (Valorant Player), Eto (LoL Player), Clerylia (Valorant Player), Lunarie (Caster), Snowbunny (Valorant Player), and Manon Terrak (Product Marketer – POST Esports Masters).
Between resilience and determination, discover how these women overcome obstacles to fully live their passion.
FACING THE LACK OF VISIBILITY AND OPPORTUNITY
Despite the evolution of gaming over the past two decades, esports remains a predominantly male discipline. This is no coincidence: society has long considered video games primarily for boys (Nintendo even named its famous console ‘GameBoy’). Stereotypes persist. Stereotypes persist.
For Snowbunny, the first consequence is a false perception of women’s gaming skills due to the scarcity of professional female players on major stages. According to Snowbunny “Men are not necessarily better than women in esports; there are just more men playing, and therefore, there are also more people at the top. Everyone has the same chances to reach the top.”
The emergence of globally renowned female players, streamers, and casters over the last decade has empowered women worldwide. Lunarie and Clerylia discuss their inspirational models, Shokz (Dutch esports journalist) and Kyedae (streamer), highlighting how these women paved the way for others aspiring to enter esports. nombreuses femmes qui souhaitent percer dans l’esports.
“I started noticing a rise in female pro players and female streamers. Some women were extremely successful and helped women feel comfortable in the gaming scene. Especially if you’ve seen Kyedae deal with toxicity in her matches, you feel empowered as an ‘e-girl”. – Clerylia
Their fame and visibility have significantly improved the perception of women in esports, creating opportunities for women worldwide, whether professionals or amateurs. Although esports still predominantly features men, positive changes are happening, as noted by Lunarie“I think the esports scene is already doing a lot of great things. More and more females get the opportunity to participate as a caster, player, or behind the scenes.”
OVERCOMING CRITICISM AND STEREOTYPES
Despite growing visibility, stereotypes persist. Being a woman among men is not easy every day, especially during online games, often rife with inappropriate behavior where some players don’t hesitate to criticize or even insult their opponents or teammates. When you’re a woman, this phenomenon is amplified, and you inevitably face more criticism and mockery than your male counterparts.
To protect themselves, some prefer to remain discreet instead of asserting themselves as they would like. Clerylia expresses this sentiment, “Sometimes I prefer not to speak in games that rely on communication because I know that if I do, I will get insulted and risk that my teammates purposely throw the game.”
Manon Terrak emphasizes that this “toxic” image can discourage some women from entering esports right from the start: “This is particularly noticeable when it comes to online games, which may also prevent some female gamers from pursuing the hobby at a high level or demotivate them early on.”
Having the label of a woman can also pose integration problems in an esports team. Eto laments being often perceived as a woman rather than a competitor: “Many teams will simply refuse to take a female because they don’t want drama in it. They think if a female is on a team, flirt and stuff like this will happen. They don’t see me as a player, but as a female first. Also, I have to prove all the time that I deserve to be in the team if, by any chance, I have one. My place is always questionable, and sometimes even doing more than anyone isn’t enough.”
KEYS TO OVERCOMING THESE CHALLENGES
However, true enthusiasts are not easily discouraged, especially considering the significant progress made in recent years. But how to accelerate the acceptance of women in esports? According to Manon Terrak, proving one’s worth is crucial: “Unfortunately, there are nevertheless still preconceptions about women in the esports world, but these can be counteracted with proven expertise and assertiveness, as in any male-dominated industry.”
For Eto, the key lies in providing opportunities for emerging female talents: “Of course, there are not a lot of female players, but when there is one, she doesn’t even have the chance to show what she is capable of. Just give them a chance.”
Among the notable recent advances is the creation of all-female teams and competitions. Chishiya points out, “Nowadays, for Valorant, we have an official women and other marginalized genders tournament, called ‘Game Changers,’ and I find it great that females are getting more recognition in the scene. While it’s still growing, sexism is becoming less present than a few years back.”
Obstacles persist, but significant improvements have occurred. Don’t give up! To achieve equal representation of women and men in esports, it is crucial to encourage young women to engage. This requires continuing to present a strong, resilient, and determined image of women in esports while combating persistent stereotypes. This is why the POST Esports Masters will continue to initiate actions in favour of inclusion within esports. As a league, we can make our resources available to actively encourage structures and players to multiply their actions and fight against abuses. It is by defending these values that the entire gaming community will succeed in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for women in esports.
We leave the final words to our protagonists:
“Don’t be scared to show off your skills and to talk in-game, be proud of what you’ve achieved and where you’re heading!” – Chishiya
“Don’t be scared of how people will treat you. You will experience sexism, even by people who don’t realize it, but in my opinion, it’s the case in every aspect of your life, so you need to build a strong mindset and be ready to face all. If you want something, take it. Don’t wait.” – Eto
“I get that you are scared of all the comments you are probably going to get. But you will always have someone who supports you and believes in you. And if there is anything that’s going on, my DMs are always open as well” – Lunarie
“I get that you are scared of all the comments you are probably going to get. But you will always have someone who supports you and believes in you. And if there is anything that’s going on, my DMs are always open as well.” – Lunarie You will experience sexism, even by people who don’t realize it, but in my opinion, it’s the case in every aspect of your life. so you need to build a strong mindset and be ready to face all. If you want something, take it. Dont wait..” – Clerylia
