Gaming in Color

Gr 9 Up—Gaming is art, storytelling, socialization, and a possible sanctuary for those who feel they don't quite fit in anywhere. Online games create an environment where teens can play with others from all over the world regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, and religion to achieve a common goal in a virtual world. As video game culture becomes more mainstream, those who once discovered a sanctuary are finding an increased level of hatred in their once sacred realm. Enter the subculture of gaymers, or LGBTQ-identified gamers who want to have their story told, or, rather, played. This documentary exposes the queer side of gaming, from the lack of queer characters in popular video game franchises to open and honest conversations about what it means to be a gaymer. Throughout, gaymers relate their experiences with coming out as a geek in high school vs. coming out as a gay geek. They highlight how players can be true to themselves in the virtual world and how to use online gaming to educate the heteronormative male-dominated geek culture: calling something gay in lieu of stupid is not cool. Some of the games referenced are rated M for mature, but the overall content is appropriate for high school viewers.