As a way to illustrate how unrealistic and sexualized female video game characters are, an artist working on behalf of the eating disorder support site, Bulimia.com, gave a bunch of famous characters some “healthier” makeovers. It’s a valid point when you consider what Lara Croft used to look like—girlfriend looked like a horny adolescent’s fantasy creation. Designers have definitely gotten the message and changed Lara’s famous, um, proportions to those more befitting of a normal, fit human female body.
Maybe this is the wrong thing to say, but I feel like some of these go beyond just a gentle “filling out” to downright overweight. Like this apple-shaped Lara Croft makeover.
All this proves is that the original Lara Croft was an all-over ridiculous design that didn’t need just filling out — she needed an overhaul. She got many, and the latest one is awesome.
The character at the top, Tifa Lockhart from Dissidia 012 Final Fantasy clearly benefits from a few extra pounds. But now there’s character Helena Douglas from Dead or Alive 5. Is she really that skinny in the before picture? Because she looks like a Kate Upton-type to me.
I dunno, I kinda think she looked like a fit, healthy chick before. A fit, healthy chick who appreciates a good cheeseburger.
The mission here is noble, for sure, and there is surely a problem with female characters being treated fairly in video games. But this particular collection is going a little too far in its attempt to send a body positive message. Like, why do I care what this character’s body look like?
I mean, of course she looks better after, but who is comparing themselves to this character?
If you or someone you know does look at female characters and feel bad about themselves, don’t be a jerk and say “they’re fake women with impossible bodies.” Be supportive. Direct them to a support site like Bulimia.com. And listen to them.
(Via Daily Dot)