Video Gamer is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Prices subject to change. Learn more
Dating app Bumble has partnered with esports organisation Gen.G to create the world’s first all-female competitive Fortnite team, as announced yesterday on Gen.G esports’ Youtube channel.
The first Fortnite World Cup was held two weeks ago, in which almost 180 pro players vied for a $3 million cash prize and the title of World Champion. Of these players, none were women.
Players like EwOk and Geguri represent that success and skill at a pro-level play are equally achievable for female players, yet esports still remains overwhelmingly male-dominated. In addition, female players encounter harassment and disparagement based on their gender, voice and appearance, further hindering their inclusion.
In creating the first all-female team, Gen.G and Bumble reinforced the claim that women do have a place in the esports community as highly skilled competitors and formidable teammates. The group comprises of Madison ‘maddiesum’ Mann, Carlee ‘Carlee’ Gress, Hannah ‘Hannah’ Reyes, Kristen ‘KittyPlays’ Valnicek and Tina ‘Tinareas’ Perez.
Representation of this kind incites a safe and positive environment for women to express their enthusiasm for gaming, and share their experiences and build each other’s skills. This is incredibly important for retaining female players on the competitive scene, as the team stated in the video. ‘I’m proud to be who I am and to represent what Gen.G’s representing,’ Gress added, ‘The idea that girls can do it because we can and we will.’
Fortnite is out for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One. Watch the Team Bumble announcement video below.
