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Representation has always been a point of contention:
- Do we need it?
- Who needs it?
- And why is there never enough of it?
In short, we do need it. Over the last decade, there has been a push for more diversity.
For me, representation shouldn’t be a box-ticking exercise. I don’t want every game to feel like a CW show. I want developers to craft authentic LGBTQ+ stories which aren’t forcing an agenda.
But don’t fear Zatu readers, I’ll get off my soap box and get straight to the point. This Pride month I want to talk about the best LGBTQ+ representation in video games. So, let's follow that rainbow road… and no Mario Carts won’t be featuring on this list.
Mass Effect Trilogy
It may come as no surprise that the first game on this list was developed by Bioware. Most Bioware releases have included queer relationships which players can explore. This one holds a special place in my heart as it helped me when I was questioning my own sexuality. It was the first game I played that gave me the choice to be in a same-sex relationship. Some may argue that romancing Liara doesn’t count as the Asari have no gender. But that in itself is brilliant representation.
As the Trilogy went on, other relationships cropped up and players had more choices to choose from. Yet, it wasn’t until Mass Effect 3 that players could have gay relationships with Kaiden Alenko or Steve Cortez. Despite waiting a while for these, they didn’t disappoint. Though, Liara is still the best queer romance to pursue. Or maybe that’s just my bias talking.
Life is Strange Series
Every Life is Strange game has included complex queer relationships. They never shied away from the protagonist’s sexual identity. And through narrative storytelling, players were able to explore different romances.
These portrayals have always been seamless. There was never a moment in Life is Strange 1 where Max contemplated her coming out story. Her love for Chloe just was and players uncovered that naturally as the plot progressed.
In True Colours, Alex could explore relations with both Steph and Ryan. This instalment had a bigger focus on romance, but it never felt forced. Alex being bisexual was never a big deal. There’s a great moment where the characters discuss sexuality and Steph and Ryan put their moves on a non-suspecting town member. It's both hilarious and cute to watch these scenes play out.
The Last of Us 2
After The Last of Us DLC, Left Behind, was released and players found out Ellie was a lesbian there were cheers from the LGBTQ+ community. Well, I know I was jumping up and down with joy.
This game focused heavily on Ellie’s relationship with Dina, and it was a huge emotional tether throughout the game. The relationship had its ups and downs and when Ellie made that fateful choice, which I won’t divulge due to spoilers, I think everyone was screaming at their screens. They engaged you in a love story that was authentic, and it didn’t matter if it was queer.
The game also included a transgender character which was ground-breaking. Transgender representation is minimal across the board. So, this meant a lot to so many people. Lev’s story was carefully crafted and essential to Abby’s redemption arc.
Dragon Age Series
This list wouldn’t be complete without Dragon Age. For me, Dorian from Dragon Age Inquisition stood out the most. And not just because he had an amazing moustache. Dorian’s loyalty quest took players on an emotional journey as they learnt about his past. It shed light on issues which some in the LGBTQ+ community face.
Additionally, Dorian was one of the first game characters with a firm sexual preference. In the past, characters were only straight or bisexual. But Dorian is openly gay, and no heroics the Inquisitor does will change his mind.
At the time, playing a female Inquisitor, I was disappointed as Dorian was one of my favourites. But on reflection, this addition was a huge step forward. Roleplaying games let players choose to be with whoever they want, which is nice, but it can make some characters feel 2D. Being shut down by Dorian was a shock but also an incentive to play the game again as a man.
Inquisition was bursting at the seams with diversity, and this made the game interesting as the NPCs reflected a larger world.
Cyberpunk
Cyberpunk had many issues on release. But LGBTQ+ representation wasn’t one of them.
Nowadays, most roleplaying games include queer romance options. However, what I liked about Cyberpunk was it wasn’t afraid to go all the way with its depiction. Not to be crass, but some games do include cutscenes where you seal the deal. Historically, straight romances have always had bigger and better-rendered scenes. Yes, I am referring to Mass Effect Andromeda’s Cara scene. But Cyberpunk didn’t do the typical fade to black. And that was refreshing to see.
But of course, the game would have been better if you could get into a car without it floating 10 feet above your head.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
This game series has been going on for an age and has quite the fan base. Since Ezio’s romance romp across Italy, the games have included love stories. Odyssey was a rather different Assassin’s Creed game in many ways. It felt more like a role-playing adventure. Players had control over their character and choices.
Along with this new freedom, the game let players romance whoever they wanted! This meant everyone in Greece was down to party with our Eagle Bearing, Misthios. I mean who could blame them! It was a deviation from the strict formula, and I loved every second. One of my favourite side quests was having to help a husband by satisfying his wife! Due to the game's sexual fluidity, no one could miss out on that hilarious mission. I think this mission was made better as Cassandra levelled up after the day's workout.
The Sims 4
I must conclude with the OG of all simulator games. Since 2000, the Sims have let players create same-sex households. Players can create a life that reflects their own. Recently, they have featured a lesbian wedding on their My Wedding Stories box art; teamed with drag queen, Pablo Vittar; and added the option to choose your sim’s pronouns. There is so much freedom in this game to craft any story you want. (With the added bonus of becoming a vampire of course!)
After releasing My Wedding Stories game pack, the company did receive backlash in some countries. But ultimately, The Sims has never changed this element of the game, even when it hasn’t been beneficial to their sales revenue. From listening to fans The Sims 4 continues to celebrate diversity across the globe.
The Future...
LGBTQ+ representation in video games is getting better and better as the years go on. So much so that the list I curated doesn’t even scratch the surface. Gaming studios are listening to players and depicting stories and characters which reflect our own world and player base.
Representation still has a long way to go but the future seems bright now that bigger companies have paved the way. Many modern games are giving players choices which weren’t there before, and narrative-driven games are including queer protagonists.
So, don your rainbow laces and celebrate Pride Month this year with a wonderful selection of games!