In an impressive show of inclusivity, the well-known beauty brand Dove has partnered with the Open Source Afro Hair Library to introduce Code My Crown, a innovative guide that aims to accurately depict natural hair in video games. This groundbreaking initiative addresses the lack of textured hair representation in virtual worlds by providing game developers with the tools and knowledge needed to create diverse and authentic hairstyles for their characters.
Recent data reveals that a concerning 85% of Black gamers feel that video games do not accurately portray textured hair. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for more precise and inclusive depictions in the gaming industry. Recognizing this disparity, Dove has taken the lead in advocating for diversity and inclusivity through the creation of Code My Crown.
The project assembled a team of talented Black 3D artists, animators, programmers, and academics who meticulously developed 15 original hair designs to expand the possibilities of virtual hair. Each design is accompanied by step-by-step instructions and 360-degree photo mapping, empowering game developers to accurately represent a wide range of natural hairstyles.
Code My Crown goes beyond technical instructions, offering valuable cultural insight as well. By exploring the historical and cultural significance of different hairstyles, game developers can create more authentic and lifelike representations of Black hairstyles in the virtual world.
Leandro Barreto, the Senior VP of the Global Dove Masterbrand, emphasizes the importance of this project, stating, “Code My Crown aims to empower game developers to embrace diversity and accurately depict textured hair in the virtual world. We want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their hair type or texture, feels acknowledged and celebrated in the gaming space.”
A crucial aspect of this initiative is its focus on improving representation in virtual spaces. Digital hair aesthetics have become integral to the gaming experience, allowing players to express their individuality and create avatars that mirror their true selves. However, the lack of diverse hairstyles has left many feeling excluded and underrepresented.
To address this pressing issue, Dove firmly believes that every individual should be able to see their beauty authentically portrayed in the virtual world. The Code My Crown guide aims to bridge the gap between virtual and real-life experiences, ensuring that individuals can truly recognize themselves in the games they engage with.
The launch of Code My Crown marks a significant step forward in promoting inclusivity and representation in the world of video games. By partnering with the Open Source Afro Hair Library, Dove not only provides a valuable resource for game developers but also encourages collaboration within the industry.
A.M. Darke, the Lead Code My Crown Contributor and Founder of the Open Source Afro Hair Library, expresses enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking initiative. Code My Crown will not only diversify the range of hairstyles available in video games but will also challenge existing norms and stereotypes.”
The demand for more diverse options is evident, with over 7.3 million Roblox users investing in five or more digital hairstyles. Code My Crown aims to confront this demand head-on and revolutionize the representation of natural hair in video games.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial that diversity and inclusivity remain at the forefront of game development. Dove’s Code My Crown is leading the way in transforming the gaming landscape and creating a more inclusive virtual world for all players. By equipping game developers with the necessary tools and knowledge, this groundbreaking initiative is poised to revolutionize the industry and ensure that everyone, regardless of their hair type or texture, feels acknowledged, celebrated, and represented in the gaming space.