ILLUSTRATION AS ANALYSIS: DISCUSSING GENDER BIAS AND STEREOTYPES IN THE DESIGN OF FEMALE CHARACTERS IN CHINESE VIDEO GAMES

This research is dedicated to examining gender bias in the design of female characters in Chinese video games, and exploring how illustration strategies can effectively promote the transformation of female characters from stereotypical and one-dimensional to more diverse and three-dimensional representations.Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, this research synthesizes and applies a multifaceted research approach that includes a literature review, sociological and feminist theoretical frameworks, semi-structured interviews, in-depth case studies, and visual cultural analysis. By combing the existing literature and several computer game cases on the market, this research reveals the profound influence of traditional cultural concepts o female character design in contemporary Chinese video games. The specific ways in which gender bias is reflected in multiple dimensions of female characterization, costume design, action performance, and characterization are further analyzed. These gender biases not only limit the diversity and complexity of female characters, but may also have a profound impact on players' gaming experience, gender perceptions, and even societal notions of gender. On this basis, this research highlight illustration strategy as an effective tool to break gender stereotypes and women's diversity and strength. Using traditional Chinese culture and style as a backdrop, the series of illustrations shows how visual language can be used to challenge traditional gender norms, presenting the diverse aspects of female characters and their powerful inner strengths.