As an advocate for diversity and representation in the gaming industry, I’m thrilled to see an increasing number of video games featuring female protagonists. Women are no longer damsels in distress waiting to be rescued; they are the ones leading the action, saving the day, and captivating players with their unique stories. In this article, we’ll look at the most anticipated video games with female leads in 2023 and 2024.
PS – I’m still building this list, please comment on games we can add!
Games we can’t wait for…
Pragmata
Pragmata, a new title from Capcom, is set in a dystopian near-future on the moon. You’ll accompany a young girl named Yulia on a quest to uncover the mysteries of their desolate surroundings.
Project EVE
Project EVE is an action RPG where you’ll step into the boots of Eve, a survivor in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by monsters. Eve’s mission is to reclaim Earth, and her action-packed journey is sure to be a thrill ride.
Hellblade II: Senua’s Saga
In this sequel to Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, delve deeper into the mind of Senua, a Pict warrior struggling with mental illness. Hellblade II promises a harrowing but compelling narrative experience, enhanced by stunning visuals.
Tomb Raider: The Dagger of Xian Remake
The legendary Lara Croft returns in a remake of the classic Tomb Raider II. Explore the Great Wall of China, Venetian canals, and other exotic locations in search of the mythical Dagger of Xian.
Life is Strange: True Colors
True Colors is the latest installment in the Life is Strange series. You play as Alex Chen, a young woman with the psychic power of empathy. Alex’s ability to understand and manipulate the emotions of others promises an engaging and emotional gameplay experience.
Perfect Dark
The Perfect Dark series returns with a female protagonist, Joanna Dark. As an agent for the Carrington Institute, Joanna uncovers a conspiracy that could change the world. The game promises action-packed gameplay and a gripping storyline.
From post-apocalyptic wastelands to magical realms, these upcoming games offer a wide array of experiences for girl gamers. They not only provide exciting gameplay but also promote diverse representation in the gaming world, proving that video games are indeed for everyone.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2
In this much-awaited sequel, explore new areas and master new abilities like gliding and swimming in the familiar world of the first game. But will we get to play as Zelda? Rice Digital says “Princess Zelda has always been one of the pillars of gaming waifus”… but honestly screw that noise. Zelda is more than a pretty doll for boys to drool over. She’s a princess who isn’t waiting for some knight’s salvation.
Starfield
Starfield, an upcoming role-playing game by Bethesda Game Studios, allows you to explore the Settled Systems galaxy. Players can create their own female character and choose their own class.
Games that we’ve liked
Forspoken
In Forspoken, you play as Frey Holland, an ordinary young woman who finds herself in the fantastical world of Athia. With her newfound magical abilities, Frey must navigate the perils of this strange land and uncover its secrets.
A Plague Tale: Requiem
A follow-up to the critically acclaimed A Plague Tale: Innocence, Requiem brings back Amicia de Rune and her little brother Hugo as they continue their escape from the Inquisition. Amicia is not just a pretty face; she’s a deadly archer whose survival skills keep her and Hugo one step ahead of their pursuers.
Scorn
Scorn takes you on a first-person horror adventure in a grotesque world. Your guide is a nameless, fully voiced female protagonist who navigates the macabre landscape to find a way out.
The Callisto Protocol
In this survival horror set on Jupiter’s moon, Callisto, you play as Jacob Lee, a former security guard. However, it’s the female scientist Rania who assists Jacob in his fight against the mutated humans that have overrun the Black Iron Prison.
Hogwarts Legacy
Hogwarts Legacy allows you to step into the magical universe of Harry Potter as a Hogwarts student. Choose to be a witch or a wizard, learn spells, brew potions, and interact with magical creatures in this action role-playing game.
Bayonetta 3
The sequel to the 2014 game Bayonetta 2, Bayonetta 3 features the eponymous witch who isn’t afraid to take on angels. Bayonetta’s sword skills are legendary, and her hair is an unconventional, yet effective, weapon.
More Games with Strong Female Protagonists
Thirsty Suitors
Journey with Jala in this heartwarming dating sim as she navigates the world of romance. The game’s diverse cast of suitors promises a unique and fun experience for all players.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising
Join CJ as she rebuilds her hometown in the aftermath of a destructive earthquake in this prequel to Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes.
Replaced
In a dystopian future, Rania wakes up with amnesia in a strange city. Use her hacking skills to piece together her past and the secrets of the city in this cyberpunk action-adventure game.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Swansong
This narrative RPG is set in the World of Darkness universe. Investigate a murder that could expose the existence of vampires to the world.
The Last of Us Part I Remake
In this remake of the 2013 game, join Ellie and Joel in their emotional journey across post-apocalyptic America.
Horizon Forbidden West
In this sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn, Aloy is on a mission to find the source of a mysterious plague that’s killing the machines. The journey takes her to the uncharted territory of the Forbidden West.
With such diverse and exciting games on the horizon, there’s something for every gamer girl out there. Here’s to more female protagonists in the gaming industry!
FAQ
Q: Why are video games with female leads important? A: Games with female leads contribute to diversity and representation in the gaming industry. They provide relatable characters for female gamers and challenge gender stereotypes.
Q: Are games with female protagonists popular? A: Yes, many games with female protagonists, such as the Tomb Raider and The Last of Us series, have achieved critical and commercial success.
Q: Do games with female leads only appeal to women? A: Not at all! Good games are good games, regardless of the gender of the lead character. Many gamers enjoy games with well-written, complex female characters, irrespective of their own gender.
Q: Can I suggest more games with female leads for your future articles? A: Absolutely! I welcome all suggestions and would love to hear about your favorite games with female protagonists.
In conclusion, the increasing number of video games featuring female leads is a positive trend that’s making the gaming industry more inclusive. With so many exciting releases on the horizon, girl gamers have a lot to look forward to in 2023 and 2024!