First and Second Author：21MCOM文玙璠&陈曦 WEN Yufan&CHEN Xi

Conference：2025 Digital Game Research Association (Di GRA 2025)

Title：Micro-Resistance in Romance: Gender Identity and Agency in 3D Otome Game

Abstract：Otome games is a niche category targeting female gamers. As female gamers now comprise nearly half of China's gaming population, otome games have risen to prominence within China's gaming market. Despite the immense popularity of female-oriented games, research on otome games and players is still scarce, and especially the dynamics between female players’ in-game experiences and gender identity have remained relatively unexplored. This study addresses this gap by examining Love and Deepspace, China's pioneering 3D otome game that centers on a female perspective and integrates feminist elements. Through the multimodal analysis and focus groups, this research investigates how 3D visual elements and game mechanics shape female gamers’ perceptions and experiences, contributing to the negotiation of their gender identity. Drawing on Michel Foucault’s concept of freedom and Judith Butler's theory of gender performativity, this study highlights the interplay between gender identity and micro-resistance within the experiences of playing otome games. In this way, this study contributes to discussions on gender diversity and equality in game design.

Supervisor：Dr. SUN Hao