Why do so many guys in gaming spaces call women "females"

I have noticed this a lot in gaming spaces and honestly it gives me the ick every time. No one casually refers to men as "males" so why is it so common to hear guys say "females" instead of just women. It always feels weirdly dehumanizing like we are some unknown species instead of just people who play games.

I swear every time I hear it it is either in some negative context or some backhanded compliment. "Females aren’t good at shooters" "I actually respect females who game" "I don’t play with females because they cause drama." Like bro just say women. The second someone says it I already know they are about to drop some weird take.

I am not saying everyone who uses the term is automatically a misogynist but there is definitely a reason why it is mostly used in certain circles. It is giving Andrew Tate podcast fan energy.

So tell me for those who use it unironically what is the thought process behind it. Does it just sound better to you or is there something deeper.