A recent topic of interest for me has been the constructions of identity in the online gaming community, especially when there is a certain degree on anonymity present. While there are infinite categories and characteristics that comprise one's identity, race, ethnicity, and nationality are an important consideration. Seeing as the MMO-Champion community is fairly diverse, I've decided that an informal survey here could be quite informative. Anyone is free to respond and if you would like something clarified, feel free to ask.
(Since the definitions of race, ethnicity, and nationality are arguable, and I do not have a concrete definition I stand by myself, please be descriptive in your choices)
- Do people you play games with online know your race/ethnicity/nationality? If yes, how come? Do you explicitly state it, or can it be deduced? (from things such as username choice, voice if using voice chat, mannerisms present in written speech ex. idioms, etc.)
- Do you form assumptions when you meet someone online? If yes, what do you assume the average player to be like? (In a highly international, non-localized game setting). An overwhelmingly common assumption is that everyone in gaming is a young, white male. Do you make this assumption?
- Do you ever pass (portray yourself) as another gender/nationality/ethnicity/sexuality/etc.? If yes, how come?
- If playing a game that has an avatar or character selection, do you choose a character that is similar in appearance to you? Why or why not? If the avatar is implied as a representation of you, do you choose the character to be similar in appearance to you. Why or why not?
- Have you ever experienced discrimination because of your identity or portrayed identity?