Expecting Heroes: The Role of Pregnant Protagonists in Video Games
摘要
This chapter explores the underrepresented theme of pregnant characters in mainstream video games, like Silent Hill 3, Bound, What Remains of Edith Finch, Death Stranding, and Amnesia: Rebirth, highlighting the unique narrative and gameplay opportunities that arise from depicting pregnancy. The discussion contextualizes these portrayals within the broader cultural and political landscape, particularly noting reactions such as the Gamergate movement. Davies argues that the portrayal of pregnant protagonists upends traditional gaming narratives dominated by male protagonists, particularly the “vengeful father” archetype. The chapter also addresses how games can either reinforce or counter societal norms regarding gender, motherhood, and bodily autonomy, contributing to a broader discourse on representation in gaming.