A recent research conducted by Lenovo polled female gamers about their gaming experience. From this research it turned out that intimidation is still very present in today's gaming culture. Even more, 59% of the questionees deliberately hide their gender so they won’t get harassed.
According to the study 77% said they had to endure some form of undesirable behaviour from other players. Some forms of harassment include their competence being questioned (70%). Being rejected from joining a game (65%). Half of the women said that they were being patronised due to their gender. Additionally 44% said they’ve experienced “unsolicited relationship” requests.
While the results may not be too surprising, it does show that we still have some work to do before gaming becomes truly universal and we should not avoid the topic but rather address it.