I've always had a curiosity about how women are actually treated in online games, and akasha's post today
Voice Chat Can Really Kill the Mood on WoW renewed my curiosity.
how many posters here at the warlock's den are women? I'd like to hear about your experiences playing as a woman, good or bad. Do you really notice a difference in how people treat you when they find out you're female? also, do you find yourself purposing hiding the fact that you're female, and if so, why?
i've read a few articles, a couple things on websites about how women are treated online, and most of it is appalling. an interesting example came from a site that was linked through a group on facebook for women wow players. many comments on it showed that it wasn't just one woman with the same experience: a popular raiding guild found out that one of their best players was female, and immediately asked for links to pictures for proof. does anyone feel the same way, that proof needs to be provided? do you think its because of the women that do take advantage of their sexuality in game? do you feel that the typical stereotypes that are brought up about women gamers are true?
men, i'd like to hear your opinions, and your experiences on gaming with other women. are you surprised when you realize a fellow player is female? do you find yourself treating women differently? if you do, why do you think that is so? also, what do you think about how some women are treated, either bad or good?
p.s. i'm female, but fairly new to the gaming community, so i'd like to hear your experiences.