What stereotypes about Mexico do you see in video games and how does it make you feel?
According to many respondents, Mexico is represented in video games in a desert-like manner. Those who responded with desert do not like that representation because it makes them feel that they are only scratching the surface of Mexico's portrayal. A second stereotype they see in video games is that it is run by cartels, which creates the impression that it is a more dangerous place than it actually is, which makes them dislike it. Last but not least, Mexico is portrayed as a poor, abandoned country. Mexico, as depicted in these three top depictions, does not impress them at all. This is a very negative image of Mexico, so they do not appreciate it. People should instead focus on the country's beauty, culture, and progress.
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The common theme in the positive opinions about the portrayal of Mexico in video games is the appreciation for familiarity, colorful representation, amusement, and the belief that certain aspects accurately represent Mexican culture. Participants express a sense of feeling at home (Participant 32), appreciate the vibrant and colorful depiction (Participant 30), find amusement in the portrayal of Mexicans wearing big hats and living in the desert (Participant 17), and view the presence of cheerful individuals who enjoy tequila and tacos as an accurate representation of Mexicans in general (Participant 25). The theme revolves around a positive connection, enjoyment, and recognition of cultural elements that resonate with the participants.
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​The common theme among these negative opinions is the criticism of stereotypical and inaccurate portrayals of Mexicans in video games. Participants expressed frustration with the prevalence of criminal stereotypes (Participant 4), the stereotypical depictions of Mexicans as gangsters or with exaggerated features like sombreros and big mustaches (Participant 43), and the discomfort caused by representations as charros or vandals (Participant 10). There is a strong desire to be portrayed as ordinary individuals rather than stereotypes like thugs, bandits, whores, or comedy relief (Participant 5). Participants also criticize the exaggerated and inaccurate portrayal of accents and cultural aspects (Participant 30) and express frustration when clothing becomes the primary marker of a character's origin but is inaccurately depicted or highlights undesirable features like criminality (Participant 38). The common theme is a rejection of stereotypes, a call for accurate and nuanced representations, and a desire to be portrayed as multifaceted individuals rather than one-dimensional caricatures.
What Mexican gamers are saying about the way Mexico is portrayed in video games
What kind of Mexican stereotypes do you see in video games, and how does it make you feel?
Mexicans are generally portrayed wearing sombreros, being luchadores, drug dealers, or having a heavy accent in video games. This type of representation is offensive and stereotypical. It reinforces false ideas about Mexican culture and contributes to the stigma associated with Mexican people. This type of representation should be avoided.
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Regarding the portrayal of Mexicans wearing sombreros, opinions vary. Some find it humorous, while others find it offensive. When done tastefully, some view the depiction as positive. Similarly, with the depiction of Luchadores, some find it clichéd, while others find it appealing, and some find it bothersome. The portrayal of Mexicans as criminals or cartel leaders has a significant influence on people's perceptions. Some believe that such depictions reinforce the notion that Mexicans are inherently bad individuals. However, others argue that Mexicans should be depicted as ordinary people without negative connotations.
Therefore, it is important for media creators to be mindful about how Mexicans are portrayed in popular culture. Representations need to be authentic and respectful to ensure that Mexicans are portrayed positively and fairly.
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The common theme among these negative opinions is the criticism of stereotypical and inaccurate portrayals of Mexicans in video games. Participants expressed frustration with the prevalence of criminal stereotypes (Participant 4), the stereotypical depictions of Mexicans as gangsters or with exaggerated features like sombreros and big mustaches (Participant 43), and the discomfort caused by representations as charros or vandals (Participant 10). There is a strong desire to be portrayed as ordinary individuals rather than stereotypes like thugs, bandits, whores, or comedy relief (Participant 5). Participants also criticize the exaggerated and inaccurate portrayal of accents and cultural aspects (Participant 30) and express frustration when clothing becomes the primary marker of a character's origin but is inaccurately depicted or highlights undesirable features like criminality (Participant 38). The common theme is a rejection of stereotypes, a call for accurate and nuanced representations, and a desire to be portrayed as multifaceted individuals rather than one-dimensional caricatures.
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​The common theme in these positive opinions about how video games depict Mexicans is the appreciation of certain cultural elements, humor, and recognition. Participants express enjoyment in the portrayal of sociable and practical people who enjoy drinking and partying (Participant 22) and find humor in stereotypes like sombreros and luchadores (Participant 28). Participant 36 appreciates well-executed representations of mariachi hats and ponchos and finds amusement in a specific scene from Metal Gear Rising Revengeance that highlights the absurdity of wearing such clothing on a daily basis. They even express a desire to create a Chocobo-adorned outfit similar to Noctis' mariachi outfit from Final Fantasy XIV, combining their love for Final Fantasy and their Mexican roots. Participant 12 acknowledges that mariachi, Aztecs, luchadores, and catrines are typical representations of Mexicans in the media and feels proud of being recognized by them, even if they acknowledge that some depictions may not always be accurate. The common theme is the enjoyment of cultural elements, humor derived from stereotypes, and a sense of pride in being recognized, despite some inaccuracies in the portrayals.
How Mexican gamers feel about way Mexican people are portrayed in video games
How do you feel about the way Mexican people are designed in video games, and why do they make you feel that way?
Regarding Mexican people's portrayal in video games, gamers have varying opinions. Some respondents viewed their game's design favorably, while others criticized the representation based on negative American stereotypes. Most gamers expressed a desire for improved representation. While they don't necessarily object to a stereotypical appearance, they prefer it to be presented more positively rather than perpetuating negative stereotypes. This could be achieved through better character design and storylines more reflective of the real world. Games should also strive to be more inclusive, depicting characters of varied backgrounds, genders, and ethnicities in positive roles.
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The common theme in these positive opinions about how Mexicans are designed in video games is a sense of pride, appreciation, and recognition of cultural elements. Participants express pride in accurately portraying typical clothing and including Mexican culture (Participant 12 and Participant 39). Participant 17 emphasizes the importance of entertainment value, indicating that they are okay with the representation of fictional characters as long as the game is enjoyable. Participants 31, 32, and 41 all express feelings of pride in the representation of Mexicans in the game, whether it's the overall portrayal or the connection between personality/form and character type. The common theme is a positive sentiment toward the design of Mexican characters in video games, the pride felt in their representation, and the appreciation of cultural elements incorporated into their designs.
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The common theme in these negative opinions about the design of Mexicans in video games is dissatisfaction and disappointment with the perpetuation of stereotypes and the lack of diverse and accurate representations. Participants expressed frustration that the design of Mexicans in video games is heavily influenced by stereotypes held by Americans about Mexico (Participant 1). Participant 3 believes that other types of characters should represent Mexicans, indicating a desire for more varied and nuanced portrayals. Participant 5 expresses disappointment with the portrayal of Mexicans as thugs, drug dealers, cartels, or arrogant individuals, particularly in contemporary settings. Participant 9 is disappointed with the tendency to represent Mexico in video games using historical or colonial imagery instead of modern-day representations. Participant 42 strongly criticizes the design of Mexicans, describing it as horrible and perpetuating negative stereotypes. The common theme is the dissatisfaction with stereotypical portrayals, the desire for more diverse and accurate representations, and the disappointment with the perpetuation of negative stereotypes about Mexicans in video games.
How Mexican gamers feel about way Mexican people are portrayed in video games
A few key points to take away from all of this
Better Portrayal of Mexico
Although people enjoy seeing Mexico depicted in video games, recent depictions have not been well-received. Rather than relying on outdated designs, people would prefer to see Mexico represented as a modern-day location. Poor portrayals of Mexico in video games are disheartening for people from the country and contribute to negative stereotypes. Developers should strive to create more authentic and accurate depictions of Mexico in video games. This can be done through careful research, consultation with experts, and incorporating feedback from Mexican players. This would help create a more positive representation of Mexico and its culture in the gaming world.
Diversify Mexicans
When incorporating Mexican characters into your game, showcasing diversity in their depiction is essential. If your game relies on stereotypes, try to present them positively, as gamers from Mexico appreciate seeing their culture portrayed positively as a sign of respect. If possible, experiment with alternative depictions while avoiding stereotypical Mexican portrayals. Avoid relying on language and dialects rooted in racism or classism to represent Mexican characters better.
Broaden how they are designed
Mexican gamers find that these characters are predominantly portrayed using American stereotypes, resulting in feelings of insult rather than representation. While the inclusion of Mexicans in video games is acceptable, it's crucial to avoid stereotyping or using them as a token. Rather than perpetuating violent depictions of them, portray them in a friendly way. Developers should create characters that are diverse, accurate, and respectful of Mexican culture. This will help gamers identify with the characters, leading to better engagement and more positive experiences.