Women in Gaming: Celebrating Main Character Energy
To honor the impactful presence of women in gaming, we are highlighting the energy they bring as main characters in the industry. Women play essential roles as game developers, testers, and marketers, contributing their all to beloved franchises. As Xbox’s Senior Director of Gaming for Everyone & Sustainability, I have collaborated with the entire gaming organization to prioritize inclusivity in our decision-making process. Our core principle, “When we don’t intentionally include, we unintentionally exclude,” guides us as we strive to deliver joy and community through gaming for all individuals.
A key philosophy that guides my approach is “Live your life by design – not by default.” In gaming, we apply this through an “inclusion by design” framework to ensure that women feel genuinely represented and included in all aspects of gaming. From intentional character design to diverse gaming experiences across various platforms, we are committed to creating a sense of belonging for women gamers.
It is inspiring to witness more women engaging actively in gaming, whether as developers, fans, or both. While we acknowledge International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, our dedication to ensuring women feel seen, represented, and valued on Xbox is ongoing. Every day brings new opportunities for growth and learning as we continue our journey towards inclusivity and diversity in gaming.
I invite you to join me in celebrating the women who have inspired you in the gaming industry. Share your stories on LinkedIn and nominate an #XboxMainCharacter. Whether it’s a game developer, content creator, or someone who made you feel welcome in the gaming community, let’s recognize and appreciate the women who have paved the way for us. Let’s honor their legacy by fostering a supportive and inclusive gaming environment for future generations.
Xbox and Women in Games International Partnership
In recognition of Women’s History Month, Xbox is pleased to announce an ongoing partnership with Women in Games International (WIGI). WIGI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing economic equality and diversity within the global games industry. Since its founding in 2005, WIGI has been instrumental in connecting, celebrating, and empowering women, femme-identifying individuals, and nonbinary professionals in gaming.
Xbox shares WIGI’s vision of a more inclusive and diverse gaming industry where everyone has the opportunity to play, create, and enjoy games. Through our partnership, we aim to elevate women in gaming, support their growth, and provide resources to enhance their professional development. Stay tuned for more details on Xbox’s collaboration with Women in Games International.
Together, Xbox and WIGI are championing the main character energy exhibited by women in the gaming industry.
Learn more about WIGI and their initiatives on their website: Women in Games International. Follow them on Twitter (@getwigi) and Facebook (Women in Games International).
Gaming and Impact with Rewards
Microsoft Rewards members in the United States can now earn and donate points to organizations that support women through Xbox. Throughout March, featured organizations on console include:
- Women in Games International – Advocating for diversity in the games industry through knowledge sharing, technology access, and mentorship programs.
- National Center for Transgender Equality – Working to increase understanding and acceptance of transgender individuals through policy advocacy.
Xbox gamers can earn Rewards points by playing games, completing Game Pass Quests, and purchasing eligible items at the Microsoft Store. Start earning points today and contribute to meaningful causes through Xbox.
Explore Games Featuring Powerful Women
March offers a diverse selection of game collections showcasing powerful women protagonists and titles created by women. Explore the community games collection on the Microsoft Stores for inclusive gaming environments. Xbox Game Pass members can delve into the Xbox Game Pass community collection on Xbox and PC to discover empowering gaming experiences.
Highlighted games include:
- Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice – Embark on a journey with Senua, a Celtic warrior, in a quest to save her deceased lover’s soul.
- Celeste – Follow Madeline, a trans woman, on a self-discovery journey up Celeste Mountain.
- Rise of the Tomb Raider – Join Lara Croft in her first tomb raiding adventure in a reimagined cinematic universe.
- Ravenlok – Dive into a fairytale adventure as Ravenlok and defeat the Caterpillar queen.
- Bluey – Experience the world of Bluey in an interactive adventure game suitable for the whole family.
New Forza Horizon 5 Vinyl Decal for Women’s History Month
Celebrate Women’s History Month with a special vinyl decal designed by Amika Cooper for Forza Horizon 5. Customize your in-game car with this unique artwork and share it on social media using #ForzaWHM for a chance to be featured! (Access the decal in the in-game Creative menu under Vinyl Groups).
Artist Amika Cooper Reimagines the Xbox Logo
For Women’s History Month, artist Amika Cooper redesigned the Xbox logo to celebrate the main character energy brought by women to the gaming community. Her vibrant and whimsical artwork symbolizes the creativity and resilience of women gamers. Explore more of Amika Cooper’s work on her website.
Xbox Ambassadors Features New Quests for Women’s History Month
In celebration of Women’s History Month, Xbox Ambassadors is spotlighting women in gaming through a series of Quests designed to promote games created by or featuring women. Join the Xbox Ambassadors community to participate in these challenges and unlock rewards in honor of Women’s History Month.
WHM Dynamic Background Available Now
Experience Amika Cooper’s Women’s History Month Xbox Sphere as a dynamic background on your console. Follow the steps to set it as your background and personalize your gaming experience. The artwork is also available as an Xbox wallpaper for your devices.