With reference to Stuart Hall, analyse the idea that characters in the media are heavily
stereotyped in the video game you have studied. (GTA)
INTRODUCTION:
The video game industry often portrays characters in a stereotypical manner, with the aim of
targeting specific audiences. In this analysis, the concept of gender will be explored in the
video game 'Grand Theft Auto' (‘GTA’).
POINT 1. ‘GTA V’ – Women as inferior
‘GTA V’ has been consistently criticised for its portrayal of women. Not only are female
characters dressed in revealing clothing and act in a more sexualised manner, but players
can also purchase prostitutes to perform a menu of different sexual acts that he experiences
in first person. Stuart Hall states that ‘producing meaning depends on the practice of
interpretation, and interpretation is sustained by us actively using the code’. In regards to
‘GTA V', this idea of women as sexual objects has been interpreted in society and the media
for years as a result of patriarchy. Women have even been expected to adhere to these
standards to sexually gratify men. By depicting women in this way, it can be said that
characters in ‘GTA V’ is certainly stereotyped, reinforcing gender roles and patriarchal ideas.
POINT 2. ‘GTA V’ – Men as hypermasculine
Whilst it is less of an issue in the minds of video game critics, ‘GTA V’ also portrays male
characters as a stereotype of hypermasculine men, in which they are violent, physically
strong and potentially misogynistic. In the poster of ‘GTA V’, the male characters are seen
holding guns and riding vehicles, two areas that are historically and stereotypically
associated with masculinity in western civilisations. In the game, players can also purchase
acts from a prostitute. They are then given the option to kill the prostitute in order to gain
their money back, which further perpetuates the stereotypical male attitude in which they
have no regards for the female gender. In reference to Hall’s quote, this idea of what it
means to be a man has been maintained by society as well for years, and is embedded into
the meaning of patriarchy.
POINT 3. ‘GTA V’ – Black Men
What critics do consider an issue, along with women, is the representation of Franklin, a
protagonist of ‘GTA V’ who is also black. His character is clearly depicted as a
representation of extreme black stereotypes, in which he smokes weed, carries a gun, is a
gang member and is the product of an abusive father and drug-addicted mother. Hall
propounds the idea that ‘The image itself – whether moving or still and whether transmitted
by a variety of different media – seems to be, or to have become, the prevalent sign of late-
modern culture.’ He discusses how visual image can be incredibly persuasive in terms of
influencing our attitudes and beliefs. It shows that black characters have always been
represented and stereotyped in this way, in the media. And, whilst it is understandable that
‘GTA’ is a parody based on stereotypes, many video game players and critics are
condemning this behaviour and how they perpetuate black stereotype.
POINT 4. ‘GTA V’ – Male Character Development
In spite of all these stereotypes, ‘GTA V’ does challenge these stereotypes – especially of
men – with their portrayal of emotional and mental health. In popular culture, the main idea
associated with masculinity is being tough and emotionless. Yet, throughout the game
audiences can see that Michael has consistently faced moral dilemmas, personal struggles
and intricate relationships. ‘GTA V’ presents audiences with a more nuanced and realistic
depictions of male emotional health, exploring the representation of men in video games and
challenging patriarchal ideas.
CONCLUSION:
