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While far from perfect, the U.S. is a nation that continues to emphasize acceptance of differences. Encouraging mutual respect of others and not judging people on the color of their skin, size, gender, sexual preference, and religious affiliation, among other things, is nothing new. It’s just a constant challenge to encourage people to accept others as they are.

With all that said, there is new controversy over body size resulting from a newly released PS3 game called “Fat Princess.” The game is set in medieval times where two kingdoms are engaged in a brutal war thanks to some magically delicious cake. Players are encouraged to feed slender fairytale princesses the cake–lots of cake–to bulk them up into overly plus-sized shapes to prevent their escape. The damsel-in-distress concept almost overshadows the part where there is also a lot of brutality–and yes, blood–in this video game.

Creators think it is no big deal to show portly princesses, saying it is simply entertainment and not a statement about obesity. Some supporters even say that it is actually a positive depiction of a woman in power because it doesn’t fall into the stereotypical beautiful yet scantily-clad female. Critics say more video games need to be created that showcase women who don’t need saving at all, and whose characters use their brain-power, rather than their body, for strategic planning.

This game is just one example of how obesity can be negatively depicted. You’ve undoubtedly seen negative stereotypes presented in other ways in the media as well. If you are overweight yourself, you may either laugh off or ignore the depictions of “inflated princesses” or publicly complain. On the positive side, there are new video games that do promote physical fitness, a healthier lifestyle, and nutrition. Consider the new Nintendo DS release, Personal Trainer: Walking, with two activity meters to track the steps you take each day or the growing selection of fitness games on the Wii.