I use both. Examples: Pokemon. I usually got both versions. So I used both characters. I played both Shepard's in ME. Saints Row gives you achievements in using both genders. And RE2 had the alternate story points. Sims I use both. Never have a problem. I don't see the character your playing, as an extension of myself. I see them as another person, to begin with.

Your arguments don't make sense. Halo's armor enhances people. So that argument becomes moot. Because, to use the armor. Requires you to pass all the basic tests of using the armor. And using guns. How is Star Wars designed for men? That doesn't even make sense. You're gifted by a magical force. That determins what you can do.

In first person games almost always as a man and in third person games I decide which looks the best to me (artistically) so no preference of gender there .

If the characters have different abilities then I decide pretty much only after those

I play as a male if I have a choice mainly because I envision myself in the game world but I'm fine with playing games with the protagonist being female. In fighting games, I mostly use female characters. Just like to look at 'em.

Female every single chance I get. And sometimes I buy a game I didn't even want because it has a "play as a female" section (Nier, Ninja Gaiden Sigma) or a customizable female option.

I'm not proud of this.

In single player games, I usually play as a male but I don't mind playing as a female. And in online games, I prefer playing as a female.

I almost always choose male.

I think I used female for a playthrough of Pokemon Ruby, but that was it.

Pick females mostly due to their designs and costume choices. Also, voices too.

I play as female. Because...because...I love... (If you know what I mean)

My first playthrough as my gender male , second playthrough as female to see the different NPC and story reactions

Eh, I'd say its a 50/50 split really. Just depends on the design and the mood im in I guess.