Thank You Mario!

I've noticed a certain frequency of the notion that #Gamergate should not be waged on the cultural front, that is, as just another engagement between cultural marxists and libertarians. These people argue that journalistic ethics should be the focus of #Gamergaters. There is certainly evidence of corruption in gaming journalism. Even the FTC has noticed, updating their FAQ to better inform consumers of undisclosed affiliate links.

There are many reasons that I am interested in #Gamergate. I have been playing video games for decades. I'm not a hard-core gamer, considering I haven't clicked "Play" in maybe two weeks. The medium has always fascinated me.

The video game angle set the hook for me, but it is being on the front of the culture war that has reeled me in. I strongly resent the attempt by feminists and their white knights to reform my space. Anita Sarkeesian claims that the "damsel in distress," trope in video games is pernicious. "Pernicious" is defined as harmful, especially in a subtle way.

So subtle that only a feminist can detect the level of harm. I don't think I would have even played "Super Mario Brothers" if Mario wasn't tasked with rescuing the princess. Thus begs the question of exactly who is being injured when I hop onto a mushroom and advance into yet another castle.