Does gender influence game preference?

From the theoretical framework of Jung’s concept of the collective unconscious, there is a hypothesis: If we categorize games into “expansionary games” and “maintenance games,” we observe that the majority of players in expansionary games tend to be male, whereas maintenance games attract a larger female audience. This situation might be rooted in early human cave-dwelling times, where the division of labor saw men hunting outside and women managing the tribe.

However, it’s important to note that this hypothesis is based on broad generalizations and cultural stereotypes. Modern research in psychology and game studies indicates that game preferences are influenced by a complex interplay of factors including individual interests, social context, media influences, and game design. Gender might play a role, but it’s not the only determinant, and the gaming industry is evolving to be more inclusive and cater to a wider spectrum of gamer identities and preferences.

However, it’s important to emphasize that contemporary perspectives in psychology and game studies suggest that game preferences are shaped by a multifaceted set of factors. Individual tastes, social environments, media impacts, and game design elements all contribute to what games people choose to play. Gender is one aspect, but it is intertwined with other variables in complex ways, and the gaming landscape is becoming increasingly diverse and inclusive. The industry is making efforts to create games that resonate with a broader range of players, transcending traditional gender-based assumptions and appealing to varied gaming preferences.

Carl Jung, a pivotal figure in the field of psychoanalysis, began his intellectual journey under the mentorship of Sigmund Freud, from whom he inherited the foundational concepts of the psychoanalytic school. However, Jung diverged from Freud’s original theories, expanding and deepening the discipline with his own innovative contributions. Jung introduced the notion of the collective unconscious, a shared repository of memories and archetypes common to all humans, which he believed influenced individual behavior and personality. He also proposed the idea of introversion and extraversion as fundamental personality orientations, distinguishing between those who derive energy from inner thoughts and feelings versus those energized by external interactions. Jung’s work has had a profound impact on various fields, including psychology, psychiatry, literature, and the arts, offering a rich framework for understanding the complexities of the human psyche.

In any case, Jung’s theory is worth understanding, as his concepts of persona and shadow form the central pillars of his analytical psychology.

The Persona, derived from the Greek term meaning “mask,” refers to the set of traits and behaviors that an individual consciously presents to others in order to conform to social expectations and norms. It serves as a facade or mask that hides the individual’s true self and essential nature. In Jung’s analytical psychology, the Persona represents the conformity archetype, where individuals adapt their personalities to fit into societal roles and expectations. It allows individuals to function effectively in social settings by presenting a consistent and acceptable image to others. However, it can also lead to a disconnection between the individual’s true self and their public persona. The Persona is not static but rather evolves over time and across different social contexts, reflecting the individual’s changing needs and societal pressures. The Shadow refers to the repressed, unconscious aspects of the personality that the individual has disowned or rejected due to fear, shame, or societal disapproval. It encompasses the darker, more primitive instincts and desires that lie beneath the surface of consciousness and is composed of sexual and life instincts, as well as other unconscious drives and impulses that are often seen as unacceptable or immoral by societal standards. It can manifest in dreams, fantasies, or even in behavior, particularly when the individual is under stress or feels threatened. The Shadow may appear as dark, wild, or exotic figures, such as snakes, monsters, demons, or dragons. Confronting and integrating the Shadow is crucial for personal growth and psychological health. By acknowledging and embracing these repressed aspects of the self, individuals can gain a more complete understanding of their true nature and achieve greater self-awareness.

The Persona series, developed by Atlus and part of the greater Megami Tensei franchise, has been widely recognized for its intricate integration of Carl Gustav Jung’s psychological theories. Specifically, the series draws heavily upon Jungian concepts such as the collective unconscious, archetypes, the persona, and the shadow, which are all central to the game’s narrative and mechanics.

Persona (Mask) as the Social Facade: In the game, the term Persona refers to the mask or facade that characters use to interact with society. This concept is directly inspired by Jung’s idea that individuals present different aspects of their personality to different social situations, a protective mechanism to navigate the complexities of social life.

Shadow and Integration: In Persona, the Shadow often appears as an antagonist, embodying the darker, unacknowledged parts of a character’s personality. The game encourages players to confront and integrate their Shadows, reflecting the Jungian process of individuation where one seeks to harmonize the conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche.

Archetypes and Tarot Cards: The series utilizes archetypes, which are universal patterns or motifs found in myths, religions, and stories across cultures. These archetypes are represented through the Tarot cards system in the game, each card corresponding to a specific archetype. For instance, the Magician, the Empress, the Fool, etc., not only serve as a framework for the story but also influence gameplay through the abilities and attributes of the Personae.

Collective Unconscious and the TV World (or Metaverse): The concept of the collective unconscious, a shared pool of memories and experiences common to all humans, is depicted in Persona through the TV World or the Metaverse—a parallel dimension where the protagonists battle their Shadows. This realm serves as a physical manifestation of the collective unconscious, where characters confront their inner demons and personal issues.

Individuation Journey: The overarching narrative of the Persona series often follows a journey of self-discovery and growth, mirroring the Jungian concept of individuation. Players guide the protagonist and their team through trials that help them understand their true selves, reconcile their conscious and unconscious aspects, and develop a more complete and authentic identity.

By weaving these psychological theories into its gameplay and storyline, Persona not only provides a rich and immersive gaming experience but also invites players to reflect on their own psychological dynamics and the complexity of the human psyche. The series stands as a testament to how video games can serve as powerful mediums for exploring deep philosophical and psychological themes.