The issue at hand Pulos’ study focuses on Blizzard’s unfair policing of the LGBTQ community in World of Warcraft (WoW). WoW is a massive-multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that utilizes a digital, fantasy Warcraft universe. It allows users to congregate, battle and discuss a variety of topics, like “a scenic chat-room with a variety of tasks” (Yee,…..). MMORPGs allow players to create a narrative myth, allowing them to create an emotional connection to their digital identity (DI). This involvement immerses individuals in very real ‘virtual’, ‘psychological’ and physical presences – each relatable to the real world. In 2006, the multi-billion dollar publisher of WoW garnered criticism for banning guilds with content relating sexual …show more content…
Additionally, she investigates the top-down structures (online gaming as a whole) that regulate the heteronormative environment of WoW. These findings are used to analyze the possible ways in which the LGBTQ community is discursively constructed across the WoW community. Analysis aims to understand the complex interactions between Blizzard and players in negotiations and resistance towards the LGBTQ community. Furthermore, her findings also identify an implied sexual binary that oppresses the LGBT community digitally and …show more content…
As observed, change is not always welcome and there is an overt presentation of power and heternormative discourse that’s proven to be both problematic and present. Her study exemplifies the need to study digital-issues, giving a better understanding of human behavior and deviances, as well as the development of social skills. As stated by Andrews (2006), the real world can and does in-fact impinge on the fantasy landscapes of MMORPGs. This exemplifies the permeable barrier which idealogical constraints have seeped into in fantasy WoW – contradicting its use as an open space. This also shows the constant interaction between digital and non-digital worlds.Due to the acceptance of intolerant players and derogatory communication in online communities, the regulation of sexuality within the digital world is produced and reinforced by the creators and communities that navigate this environment – ultimately legitimizing a space for