Video games are no stranger to controversy, but it’s usually a result of their excessive use of violence, weapons and blood that earns them the titles of inappropriate and offensive.  The introduction of a new Playstation game last week warrants similar attention and outrage but for different reasons.  The game, entitled “Fat Princess: Fistful of Cake”, urges gamers to overcome enemies and obstacles in order to find cake which they then feed to the princess.  With each slice they feed her, the princess gains a significant amount of weight and, as a result, is not able to be picked up and carried away by the “enemy”.

The real enemy in this case is the game itself and those who promote it.  This game explicitly supports size prejudice, encourages jokes and criticisms regarding weight and sends negative messages regarding body image.   Many of its supporters will claim, “it’s just a game!” but individuals who have struggled with body image concerns and disordered eating know all too well that it is not just a game.   Playstation’s “Fat Princess” is yet another indication of the prejudices and lack of acceptance which exist in our society. The Center for Eating Disorders supports all who choose not to purchase or play this game and who choose, instead, to celebrate body diversity.   

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above photo courtesy of games.gearlive.com