RESEARCH: Exploring female representation in Assassin's Creed
Zanescu’s theoretical approach is informed by gender performance theories, which view video games as dynamic systems in which player interactions can alter and shape gender representations.
Andrei Zanescu, an assistant professor in the department of Communication Studies and member of the Milieux Institute, has recently co-published a study with Lina Eklund at Uppsala University delving into the portrayal of women in the Assassin's Creed (AC) video game series, produced by Ubisoft from 2007 to 2024.
Historically, the franchise predominantly featured male leads - however - recent editions have begun to incorporate more female protagonists. This shift provides a rich field for analyzing changes in the representation of both playable female characters and non-player characters (NPCs) within the game series.
Zanescu’s theoretical approach is informed by gender performance theories, which view video games as dynamic systems in which player interactions can alter and shape gender representations. Central to this analysis is the notion of gender performativity, which underscores how the mechanics and storylines of games play pivotal roles in shaping the presentation of femininity in the digital space.
The progression of female roles in Assassin's Creed mirrors larger trends in the gaming industry, shaped by identity politics, advocacy for inclusion, and shifts toward more inclusive game designs. Yet, challenges remain, notably in industry demographics and leadership disparities. This case study seeks to enrich the understanding in gender representation in gaming by providing a detailed exploration of how one major franchise navigates these broader societal and industry evolutions.
Read "Times They Are A-Changin’? Evolving Representations of Women in the Assassin's Creed Franchise" published in Sage Journals on April 25, 2024.