The category is #gaymer: A multi-method approach for understanding the queer player experience

Abstract

Research on games from a queer perspective presents a multidisciplinary field open to discussion with various dimensions. According to some studies, although virtual worlds are designed as heteronormative, they are inherently queer. This multi-method research evaluates the player experience of 15 LGBTIQ + players from Turkey within World of Warcraft (WoW). This study mainly explores participants’ behaviors, attitudes, and engagement in-game grounded on an analysis framework that consists of eight constructs in three consequent stages. Further, while investigating how game mechanics and narrative affect their player experience, we also question whether there is a possibility for a queer-play. Findings indicated that WoW is considered limiting regarding game mechanics with a gender binary restriction. Nevertheless, participants reported that there are always queergaming possibilities with the possible queer connections in-game.