When I first began publicly writing about games, I wrote about sexism in Heavy Rain. I shared that I found the treatment of Madison’s character problematic, how running around in her underwear for a useless dream sequence and nearly being drilled in the genitals was problematic.

People responded, “She was a tough journalist. You’re looking for reasons to be offended.”

Later, I co-wrote an article with Cracked about sexist tropes in games. I mentioned the tired father/daughter trope and included The Last of Us as an example.

People responded, “Ellie was a kid! She was also really useful! God, it’s like you love being offended.”

I’m tired of this response as a way to derail the conversation. There are very little things that actually offend me on a personal and social level. When I analyze problematic tropes, it’s not because I am offended as a women or as a person of colour or as a queer lady. My intelligence is the only part that is actually offended.

We can always discuss the troubling issues of sexism, racism, rape, violence, and ableism. We can always represent them in artistic works. I’ve never been interested in censorship or shutting creative ideas down.

It’s not about offense.

I am not offended.

I am not fucking offended.

I just want you to think, write, and act better. Smarter.

You and I are sound enough to be able to at least give that a shot.