FEMINIST GAME REVIEWS – The New Order (2014)
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FEMINIST GAME REVIEWS
“WOLFENSTEIN: THE NEW ORDER” (2014)
OVERVIEW ► released in Q1 2014, “Wolfenstein: The New Order” portrays an alternate timeline where Nazis won WW2, resulting in a global Nazi empire. upon its release, the game received widespread acclaim not only for its polished gameplay, but also the depth of its narrative and characters. unlike most WW2 games that ignore the role of Nazism and racism, “The New Order” frankly portrays Nazi ideology and its human impact. whilst the hero, B.J., may resemble a typical beefcake male, he works alongside characters from different backgrounds, races and genders. this unexpectedly varied cast helps “The New Order” to engage with themes rarely seen in videogames, such as racism, ableism and anti-Semitism. in an industry often criticised for lazy ideas, “The New Order” shows how giving visibility to traditionally ignored groups can improve gaming.
VISIBILITY ► whilst a white, male hero might not seem too inspired, B.J.’s reaction to Jewish artefacts and Hebrew indicate he too is Jewish, a rarity in games. B.J.’s closest ally is Anya. far from being a sex object, Anya is a former PhD student who becomes a vital part of the underground resistance. female villains such as Nazi officer Frau are also depicted, though the game thankfully avoids the trope of “bad girls” as sexualised seductresses. less depicted are people of colour, due to the game’s Nazi setting. still, such characters have moments that help to individualise their identities. the game also engages with ableism, through the depiction of characters with disabilities and the impact of Nazism on their lives as a result. such characters aren’t window dressing or helpless victims to be rescued. rather, they take significant and active roles in shaping the narrative.
AGENCY ► the game’s narrative revolves around B.J., but his success depends on his allies, most of whom get ample time to shine despite their circumstances. B.J.’s friend Caroline commands the resistance. despite being paraplegic and female, she is depicted as skilled in leading her group to victories. Caroline later uses advanced tech to augment her mobility. but the game makes sure to demonstrate she is as capable before upgrading as after. people of colour are also depicted, albeit with less agency. one character is an African ex-soldier, yet spends half his time literally sitting around. unlike most WW2 games, religion is central to “The New Order”. B.J. realises the Nazis won WW2 by stealing technology from an ancient Jewish sect. though Jews as hoarders of power is an old stereotype, “The New Order” engages it in ways that actually help to humanise its Jewish characters.
PROGRESS ► whilst it excels in depicting characters from different backgrounds, “The New Order” is far from the first game to bring depth to its narrative. “Half-Life 2” from 2004 is one recognisable influence, depicting a dystopia where people from all walks of life must cooperate to resist genocide. “The New Order” makes clear its characters are more than mere tokenism. the game’s ending suggests they will be central to future sequels. the game is also part of a broader trend in gaming today, of including characters with whom women and minority gamers can relate and identify. this marriage of gameplay with compelling narrative is one reason “The New Order” has received over 45 nominations and awards since release. in the end, “The New Order” demonstrates how studios can benefit from having more empowering female and minority roles in their games.
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