Video games debate player choice versus identity representation in queer romances
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Dragon Age II set a precedent in 2011 for "playersexual" romances where all characters can be pursued regardless of gender. This was inclusive but erased identities.
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Some games like Cyberpunk 2077 now opt for defined sexualities to better explore those identities, but this restricts player choice.
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Smaller games like Boyfriend Dungeon use the playersexual model for self-exploration, but at the cost of ignoring how gender impacts relationships.
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Dragon Age Inquisition defined characters like Dorian as gay to tell meaningful stories about identity that a playersexual format wouldn't allow.
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Developers are still debating the right balance between player freedom and representing queer experiences authentically. There are merits to both approaches.