Summary
Women have always played a key role in gaming—whether as developers, writers, or protagonists breaking new ground. From early gaming icons to modern indie breakthroughs, their influence continues to shape the industry in powerful ways.Women’s History Monthis the perfect time to highlight games that celebrate their contributions, whether through strong female leads, innovative storytelling, or representation that pushes gaming forward.
Some titles feature women surviving against all odds, while others challenge stereotypes or provide authentic LGBTQ+ representation. No matter the genre, these games prove that women belong in every aspect of gaming—on-screen, behind the scenes, and everywhere in between.
Considered by many to be the epitome of game design and one of the best games of all time,Portalintroduced players to Chell, a silent yet resilient protagonist who uses intelligence rather than brute force to navigate the challenges of Aperture Science. Designed by Kim Swift to be an everywoman, Chell represents the strength of persistence in the face of overwhelming odds.
Opposing her is GLaDOS, one of gaming’s most memorable antagonists, voiced by Ellen McLain, created by a team that included several female developers. The game’s clever mechanics and dark humor helped cement its legacy, furthered byPortal 2,showing that female-driven narratives don’t have to rely on traditional storytelling to make an impact.
Inspired by classic fairy tales and Studio Ghibli,Child of Lightfollows Aurora, a young girl who finds herself in a dreamlike world full of danger and wonder. Written like a poem and accompanied by stunning watercolor visuals, the game captures the journey of a girl growing into a warrior.
Many talented women were involved in creating this game that refuses to have the main protagonist rely on a man, including lead designers Melissa Cazzaro and Aurelie Debant, and lead programmer Brie Code. Ubisoft artist and writer Jeffrey Yohalem was inspired by his sister’s childhood experiences, and the game presents a rare, deeply personal story about growing up, independence, and reclaiming one’s power.
Lara Croft has been one of themost famous womenin gaming for decades, but the 2013 reboot ofTomb Raidergave her a new depth. Instead of the confident, unstoppable adventurer of the early games, this Lara is younger and still discovering her strength.
As she survives harsh conditions, outsmarts mercenaries, and unearths ancient secrets,Tomb Raiderpaints a compelling story of perseverance. Camilla Luddington’s performance brought new life to the character, proving that female leads in action games could be just as complex as their male counterparts.
Naughty Dog’sThe Last of Uswas groundbreaking for many reasons, but its depiction of Ellie as acomplex, multidimensional characterwas one of its biggest achievements.
Her story is one of survival, love, and loss, and her identity as an openly queer character helped push mainstream gaming toward better LGBTQ+ representation. The DLCLeft Behindexplored her relationship with Riley, marking a rare moment of authentic representation in a major AAA game.
After years of being known as theprincess in distress, Peach finally steps into the spotlight inPrincess Peach: Showtime!The game reimagines her as an active, shape-shifting heroine who takes on different roles—ranging from a swordfighter to a detective—proving that she is more than capable of handling her own adventure.
Her previous game,Super Princess Peach,in which she saves Mario using the power of her emotions, was released in 2005, leaving a full 19 years between titles starring the toadstool princess. It’s a long-overdue moment for one of gaming’s most well-known female characters.
At first glance,Celesteis a challenging platformer about climbing a mountain, but underneath that liesa deeply personal narrativeabout battling self-doubt.
Madeline, the protagonist, struggles with anxiety and identity, and her journey mirrors the real-life experiences of the game’s creator, Maddy Thorson, who came out as nonbinary after the game’s release.Celestebecame an instant classic for its pitch-perfect gameplay, its meaningful storytelling, and its message that resilience and self-acceptance go hand in hand.
Unpackingtells an entire life storywithout a single spoken word, simply through the act of placing objects in a home. Over the course of the game, players piece together the journey of a woman as she moves through different stages of life—including an LGBTQ+ relationship.
The subtle storytelling, combined with the game’s cozy, meditative gameplay, earned it awards for its authentic representation. It’s a testament to how powerful storytelling can be, even in its quietest moments.
Thatgamecompany’sJourneyis a captivating example ofhow video games can also be art. Players control a robed traveler crossing vast landscapes toward a distant mountain, encountering anonymous companions along the way.
Designed by Jenova Chen and directed by Robin Hunicke, the game offers a wordless, emotional experience that encourages cooperation and discovery. With its breathtaking visuals and a soundtrack that tells its own story,Journeyis a game about connection, perseverance, and the beauty of the unknown.
Released in 1981,Centipedewas one of the earliest arcade hits, and it holds a special place in gaming history as one of the first major titles designed by a woman. Dona Bailey, one of the few female game developers at the time, co-createdCentipedeat Atari, helping design its mechanics and distinctive visual style.
The game’s fast-paced, colorful gameplay made it a standout in the arcade era. Bailey’s work paved the way for more women in game development, proving that the industry was not just a boys’ club even in its earliest stages.
WhileAnimal Crossinghas always beena beloved series,New Horizonsbecame a cultural phenomenon, particularly for women gamers and LGBTQ+ players. The game’s emphasis on creativity, community, and self-expression allowed players to build their own ideal worlds, free from judgment.
Women developers, such as Aya Kyogoku, played a major role in shaping the series, ensuring thatAnimal Crossingremained a welcoming and inclusive space for all. Aya Kyogoku was also the first woman to ever direct a video game at Nintendo withAnimal Crossing: New Leaf.
