Examining the Culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practices Within the Video Game Industry Through an Anti-Isms Lens

Abstract

Esports and gaming have been conceptualized as a merging of technology and traditional sport, both of which are industries with histories of exclusionary and discriminatory cultures. Further, it has been established that within both sport and technology organizations, the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have largely been based upon mandated federal policy compliance rather than cultural change. Thus, the purpose of this study was to illuminate current DEI efforts and practices within gaming and esports organizations through an anti-isms lens and to explore the perceived effectiveness of these efforts in establishing increased inclusivity and decreased marginalization. The study employed an exploratory, qualitative approach. Participants ( n = 6) were currently employed by either a gaming or esports-specific organization working specifically on DEI initiatives. Findings revealed four themes describing the current culture of DEI efforts including: (1) performative DEI, (2) limited impacts, (3) benevolent equity, and (4) inequitable burdens. Overall, the findings revealed highly surface level and reactive processes that fail to effectively shift the culture of gaming and esports organizations toward truly inclusive and equitable environments.