Other popular multiplayer online games, like World of Warcraft and City of Heroes, are examples of games that appeal to both genders. Game designer Gano Haine says this is because the games offer diverse content that players can choose from freely: "Being able to customize, to play on your own terms, is hugely important.

"Persistence is attractive to women -- there's something about having your stuff, arranging your stuff and having it be there when you come back -- the whole collecting-slash-farming mechanic," said Hain. "I don't explore the dungeons very much, but I'm good at building my profession and finding herbs."

For a very interesting view on women in MMORPG, click right here, and see Mad News' Chris Kohler's in depth look at the women behind the moniters.