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The term objectification sounds pretty negative at first. When you hear it, you probably think of dehumanization, humiliation, or even violence. But in the gay BDSM scene, objectification is often the exact opposite. It is a deliberately played loss of control, an erotic game with roles, identities, and availability. If you want to know more, just read on, we’ll give you the most important information on objectification games.
What exactly are objectification games?
Objectification games mean that you voluntarily and in agreement with your partner slip into the role of an object. This can be a piece of furniture, a sex toy, a pet, or a commodity. It’s not about the real loss of your human dignity, but about your pleasure gained through the role reversal. Here, objectification becomes an extremely powerful form of power transfer that can be quite satisfying for both of you, i.e., for the dom and the sub.
Why are objectification games in the gay BDSM scene in particular?
Objectification has a long tradition in gay fetish and BDSM culture. Just think of the leather guy who offers himself as a human footstool, pet play with farts and handlers, or fisting sessions where the bottom becomes a completely “public opening.” These are all forms of objectification, some subtle, others quite radical.
But why is this type of play so popular among gay men in particular? Perhaps because they deal with gender roles differently. In the scene, the narrow boundaries of the classic heteronormative power hierarchy do not exist. This leaves much more room for creative engagement with role models, for more conscious devotion, and for wordless communication. In fact, many gay men see objectification as a way to play with shame, control, lust, and self-image without having to fear the moralistic wrath of society.
The different forms of objectification
Objectification is a broad playing field, ranging from gentle to harsh and from stylish to brutal. A brief overview of some of the variations that are particularly popular in the scene can help you find the right form for you.
a) Human furniture
As “human furniture,” you become a stool, table, lamp stand, or rug as a sub. Fans of this form of objectification see it as something aesthetic, almost artistic. For many, the complete immobility is a special attraction. You serve only one purpose.
b) Sex object (pure function without self)
Here, you become a masturbation object, a fuck doll, or a glory hole. Your body is available but not approachable. You have no opinion and show no initiative. You are nothing but skin, holes, and lust. This scenario can be deeply arousing, but only if clear boundaries have been agreed upon.
c) Pet play & animal role play
Whether as a puppy, pony, or pig, pet play is about temporarily giving up your human identity. You become a dressage object, a target for reward and discipline. Many pups find this very liberating and love not having to think, but just feel.
d) Obedience Training (Obedience without Discussion)
Here, mental objectification is at the forefront. You function, obey, and are used. Again, the point is that you no longer think for yourself because your Sir has completely taken over your inner life.
e) Object Auction or Slave Market (Being Sold as a Commodity)
At many BDSM parties or in playrooms, people play with the idea of a sub becoming a commodity. They are “displayed,” “sold,” and “auctioned off.” Of course, this is all just staged and secured with safe words. The appeal lies in the complete surrender and sometimes also in the voyeuristic humiliation.
Appeal and risk – Why objectification has such an intense effect
You shouldn’t assume that objectification is a walk in the park. If you get involved, you are entering a world where your body becomes available and your “self” is, at least temporarily, secondary. This is exactly what makes objectification so intense. It is a deeply psychological game.
Those who are objectified often describe it as a state that fluctuates between trance, lust, and loss of control.
Some call it “subspace,” others “pure surrender.” But be careful, because this is exactly what can traumatize you if the experience has not been properly prepared, communicated, and secured.
That’s why objectification only works if it is based on a high degree of trust, clear agreements, and aftercare. This is even more important when the games deeply affect your identity.
Consent is King – The rules for safe play
In the gay BDSM community, the principle of RACK (Risk Aware Consensual Kink) has become established, which means consensual but risk-aware kink. This is essential in objectification games.
What should you pay particular attention to? First and foremost, you should clarify in advance what is allowed and where your taboos lie. It is also useful to know whether there are any trigger words, role preferences, or boundaries. Agreeing on a safe word is also a must. Many people use the “red-yellow-green” system for this. This is particularly helpful if you are playing non-verbally.
Aftercare should always be an integral part of your plans. Objectification can have a dehumanizing effect. This makes it all the more important to reestablish an emotional connection afterwards. As a general rule, you shouldn’t start with objectification overnight. Especially if you’re new to this scene, take it slow and feel your way forward. Always remember: fantasies are often harder than the real thing.
Objectification as part of one’s identity
Many gay men discover a whole new side to their sexuality through objectification. Some experience for the first time that they finally don’t have to perform, think, or achieve anything. For them, it is extremely erotic to just function and be used. Paradoxically, many find this deeply human, probably because it is so pure.
Another aspect is playing with social power. In a world where many gay men have to perform constantly (whether at work, in their relationships or families, or on Grindr), being an object becomes a form of self-empowerment. “I decide when I make myself available.”
Of course, the opposite can also happen. Some people find a whole new sense of self-worth through playing the role of an “object.” Not because they are nothing, but because they are completely at one with themselves in their devotion. Sounds paradoxical to you? Welcome to the world of kink.
Experiencing objectification online – virtual roles, real effects
Nowadays, much of objectification takes place online. On platforms such as Recon, PlanetRomeo, or in Telegram groups, players arrange role-playing games that sometimes only involve text, or also voice, cam, and remote toys.
The advantages are obvious. You have the anonymity that many people desire. In addition, the distance provides maximum safety and you can try things out without revealing yourself. But here, too, virtual objectification can have a major impact on your self-image, your psyche, and your relationships. That’s why you should always act consciously, even in the virtual world.
Conclusion: Objectification games are not a trend, but a deeply rooted practice
Objectification in the gay BDSM scene is more than just a game. For many, it is a way of life, a spiritual experience, or an erotic home. If you decide to get involved, you will need courage, trust, and reflection. But you may also discover sides of yourself that have no place in the “normal” world. So if you are toying with the idea of becoming an object, do it consciously and do it safely. And above all, do it only because you want to. Then you can discover whole new sides of yourself and have a lot of fun with objectification.