Breaking Barriers: Mass Effect’s Depiction of Lesbian Relationships
The gaming industry has come a long way in terms of inclusivity and representation in recent years. With organizations such as GLAAD advocating for more LGBTQ+ representation in all media, it’s undeniable that the industry is making progress towards more diverse and inclusive content. One prime example of this progress can be seen in the popular video game franchise, Mass Effect, and their portrayal of lesbian relationships.
Mass Effect is a science fiction role-playing game that allows the player to create their own protagonist and explore the galaxy, while building relationships with other characters along the way. In the second installment of the game, released in 2010, the player has the option to engage in a romantic relationship with a female character named Samantha Traynor. Traynor is a communications specialist and an officer in the Alliance Navy, who aids the player’s team in their missions.
What makes Traynor’s inclusion in the game unique is not only that she is a lesbian character, but that her sexuality is not the main focus of her character. She is a fully fleshed-out character with her own personality traits, goals, and storylines. In fact, her sexuality is not revealed until the player chooses to pursue a romantic relationship with her. This portrayal is a prime example of how representation can be done right when it comes to the LGBTQ+ community.
One of the most significant barriers against LGBTQ+ representation in media is the notion that it’s “too controversial” or “not appropriate” for certain audiences. This argument is often used to justify excluding LGBTQ+ content from media, particularly media aimed at children or family audiences. However, Mass Effect’s portrayal of Traynor and her relationship with the player’s character challenges this notion. The game is rated M for Mature, which means it is not targeted towards children, but rather towards an adult audience. That being said, whether or not a player chooses to pursue a romantic relationship with Traynor is entirely up to them. The game doesn’t force the player into any romantic relationship, let alone with a same-sex character.
Another barrier against LGBTQ+ representation in media is the fear of backlash from those who still hold homophobic beliefs. While there are still instances of backlash against LGBTQ+ representation in media, particularly in gaming, the reception to Traynor’s portrayal shows that there is a demand and appreciation for diversity and inclusivity in gaming. Many players praised the game for its portrayal of Traynor, especially because her sexuality wasn’t stereotyped or fetishized, which can be a common criticism of LGBTQ+ representation in media.
In conclusion, Mass Effect’s portrayal of Traynor and her relationship with the player’s character is a prime example of how representation can be done right in gaming. By creating a nuanced and fully fleshed-out character whose sexuality is not her defining trait, the game breaks barriers and challenges stereotypes. Traynor’s inclusion in the game shows that diversity and inclusion can be done without sacrificing the story or gameplay, and that there is a demand for such representation in gaming. It is important that more games follow Mass Effect’s lead and continue to break down barriers for the LGBTQ+ community in gaming.
FAQs:
1. How does Mass Effect portray LGBTQ+ characters?
Mass Effect portrays LGBTQ+ characters as full-fledged individuals with their own personalities, goals, and storylines. Their sexuality is not their defining trait, but rather a part of who they are.
2. Is Mass Effect the only game with LGBTQ+ representation?
No, there are other games that feature LGBTQ+ characters or relationships, such as The Last of Us Part II, Life is Strange, and Stardew Valley.
3. How does the inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters in gaming benefit players?
The inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters in gaming benefits players by providing representation and making them feel included and validated. It can also help educate players on diversity and promote empathy and understanding.
4. Has there been any backlash towards the inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters in gaming?
Yes, there has been backlash towards LGBTQ+ representation in gaming, particularly from those who hold homophobic beliefs. However, the reception to Mass Effect’s portrayal of Traynor and other LGBTQ+ characters shows that there is also a demand and appreciation for diversity and inclusivity in gaming.
5. What can gaming companies do to continue to break down barriers for the LGBTQ+ community in gaming?
Gaming companies can continue to create fully fleshed-out LGBTQ+ characters and relationships that aren’t stereotyped or fetishized. They can also include more diverse creators on their teams and commit to creating a more inclusive and welcoming culture within the gaming industry.
