A Glimmer of Inclusion in the World of Video Games

The new Marvel game, Wolverine, has made headlines for its inclusion of Squamish Nation’s language and locations from British Columbia. At first glance, this may seem like a minor detail, but it reflects a growing trend of representation in popular culture that is long overdue.

For years, the video game industry has been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusivity. Games often rely on stereotypes or generic settings to represent cultures worldwide. Wolverine’s developers, however, have made a concerted effort to incorporate real locations and languages, giving players a taste of what it means to be Canadian.

One striking moment in the game occurs when driving through Squamish, past signs displaying the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim language. This small but significant detail has been praised by Indigenous experts and gamers alike. It’s not just tokenism or checking boxes; it’s about creating a sense of authenticity and belonging.

The inclusion of Squamish Nation’s language in Wolverine is rare in the gaming world. British Columbia has often been overlooked as a setting for video games, but this game is changing that narrative. By featuring real locations and languages, the developers are giving players a deeper understanding of the region and its people.

Wolverine’s success highlights the need for more representation and inclusion in the gaming industry. Games like Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey and The Last of Us have made strides in this area, but they are exceptions rather than the rule. Other developers can learn from Wolverine’s example by working with communities and experts to create authentic experiences.

Games have a significant impact on popular culture, shaping our perceptions and attitudes towards different cultures, communities, and identities. By incorporating more diverse elements, games can help break down barriers and promote understanding. This is particularly important in a world where cultural homogenization is increasingly prevalent.

The developers of Wolverine should be commended for their efforts to create an entertaining and authentic game. However, acknowledging the work still to be done is crucial. There are 35 different Indigenous languages spoken in British Columbia alone, and only a handful have been represented in games so far.

To truly make an impact, the gaming industry needs to fundamentally change its approach to representation and inclusion. This means working with communities to create experiences that reflect the complexities of real-life cultures and giving players tools to engage with these cultures meaningfully.

Wolverine is a step forward, but it’s just one step in a long journey. The true challenge lies ahead: creating games that not only include diverse elements but also challenge players’ assumptions and biases. Only then can we truly say the gaming industry has become more inclusive and representative.

The success of Wolverine will depend on its performance in the market, but its impact extends far beyond box office numbers or player reviews. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when developers take representation seriously and strive for authenticity. As we look to the future of gaming, let us remember that representation is not just about checking boxes; it’s about creating a world where everyone feels seen and included.