10 Most Influential LGBT Characters In Video Games

10. Soldier 76 - Overwatch

Influential might be pushing it, given his sexuality as a gay man just been revealed, but it’s caused a considerable stir in some dark corners and shows there’s still a way for gaming to go yet.

It should be noted that most Overwatch players have either welcomed Soldier 76’s coming out or haven’t particularly cared at all. While members of the LGBT community are obviously happy to have another major character join their ranks, the gamers who don’t care either way are arguably much more important.

Getting to the point where sexuality is no longer newsworthy is the end goal. However, considering shaving commercials encouraging men not to bully people or sexually harass women receive vocal backlash, we clearly do not live in that world yet.

A minority have been quick to point out it’s been wedged in, because up until now you couldn’t tell he was gay. But isn’t that the point? Having it just exist? Much like in real life, you can’t tell a video game character’s sexuality just by looking at them.

How influential having a gay male protagonist in a massive online shooter will be remains to be seen. Whatever happens though, it’s certainly refreshing.