There is a lot that can be said about gaming in 2022, but one thing that should not go unnoticed is just how much representation of the LGBTQIA+ community was fleshed out in the video game titles that we all played.
Whether it was a full new story-driven game, a remake, remaster, or even an online multiplayer title, there were a lot of fantastic LGBTQIA+ characters that came out in the year 2022. And we believe that they deserve love and recognition for giving the community someone to root for that’s just like us. So, here are the best LGBTQIA+ video game characters of 2022!
Best LGBTQIA+ Video Game Characters of 2022
Before we start, it’s important to note that 2022 had so many great LGTBQIA+ characters in gaming, but that doesn’t mean that everyone has made the cut. Because there are a lot of games, it just isn’t possible to meet each and every character. However, out of all those we have met, these are certainly the best representation that 2022 had to offer. So, let’s check them all out!
Dreamer – Fortnite
First on our list is the superhero that most fans would recognize from the CW Arrorverse and DC Comics, Dreamer. A true inspiration to transgender girls everywhere, the inclusion of this superheroine is something that means a lot to trans adults, but even more for the trans kids who log in and play Fortnite every day. Representation matters and the inclusion of Dreamer is a prime example of that. A true hero indeed.
Ryan – The Quarry
Next up is one of the main protagonists from Supermassive Games’ summer blockbuster The Quarry, Ryan. Though Ryan’s sexuality isn’t talked about often, he says things in-game that would indicate that he’s bisexual. In fact, at one point in the game during a Truth or Dar moment, Ryan has to choose whether to kiss Kaitlyn or Dylan, which furthers this understanding of his sexuality even deeper.
Ellie – The Last of Us Part 1
How could we have an LGBTQIA+ 2022 list and not include Ellie? Though she’s been an out character for the better part of a decade now, players get to experience her story all over again with fresh visuals and cinematics that really allow them to appreciate her and the adventures she’s embarked on. Naughty Dog has also really highlighted the DLC this time around wherein she realizes her sexuality, making sure that gamers play it to learn more about Ellie and her journey of self-discovery.
Catalyst – Apex Legends
It’s no secret that Apex Legends is most certainly a queer game. There are many, many Legends in the game that identify as someone from the LGBTQIA+ community and there are sure to be more on the way. But 2022 gave us one of my favorite characters thus far, Catalyst. She’s grounded, relatable, and has a fantastic backstory that furthers the reason why players should love her. She’s also pretty powerful on the battlefield too.
Toni – Fortnite
Fortnite had a pretty significant year when it comes to LGBTQIA+ representation as it had a handful of fantastic new characters to offer players. Toni’s inclusion in Fortnite is an important one, as they’re the game’s first out non-binary character to play as. The moment Toni went on sale in the store, I knew I had to have them too. Their style is fantastic and they’re just a real joy to play as.
Kevin – Saints Row
Though Saints Row had a rocky launch, to say the least, it offered great diversity in its cast of main characters. Those who haven’t played the game wouldn’t know that the “shirtless bro” character Kevin is actually both Pansexual and Polyamorous. He’s even stated that he’s attracted to people’s hearts. His comic relief and genuine personality prove that there’s more to someone who meets the eye.
Blort – Cosmonious High
On the abstract side of things is Cosmonious High and its lovely, adorable character, Blort. Blort is a non-binary character that really is a friend that can be depended on in Cosmonious High. Though they’re considered most likely to be the underdog, they’re a real ball of energy that brings life into every conversation that you can have with them, making the dull moments feel like something more. And I’m personally biased because I just love Flan, and that’s Blort’s species.
Chica – Fortnite
What’s even more amazing than being able to play as a fictional character that’s part of the LGBTQIA+ community? Being able to play as a real-life figure that the community holds so dear. In 2022, Twitch streamer ChicaLive was given the chance to bring her own identity into the game with an original character, Chica who sports rainbow pride 24/7. Characters like this are extremely important for the community because not only does it give LGBTQIA+ characters representation but also the real-life people representing the community. Get it, queen.
Jala – Thirsty Suitors
Something else worth pointing out for the LGBTQIA+ characters in 2022 is that there is a ton of diversity, not just in what part of the community each is from, but in the racial diversity on display as well. Thirsty Suitors’ own main character Jala perfectly embodies that sentiment with a deeply rich backstory along with a string of suitors as diverse as that of Scott Pilgrim vs The World. She’s strong-willed and knows what she wants from life.
Chloe – Life is Strange Remastered
Another character that needed to make this list is Chloe from Life is Strange Remastered. Having just come out of high school when this title came out, it felt as if the inclusion of Chloe is what really seemed to break down the walls when it came to bringing LGBTQIA+ characters to the forefront in games. She and Ellie broke down those barriers and made it so that we can have characters like Dreamer, Jala, Kevin, and Blort.
Well, those are all of our choices for the best LGBTQIA+ video game characters of 2022. Though we only picked 10, there are definitely a ton of other great characters out there that are doing the community justice in representation and giving someone to love.
It’ll be interesting to see what 2023 brings gamers. If 2022 is any indication, then 2023 is sure to bring even more diversity and inclusivity to games so that all players and communities feel recognized in the titles that they’re playing. And that’s what’s so great about this industry, it’s always evolving for the players that love it.
If you liked our list, then be sure to check out some of our other great content too. We’re always compiling great lists to look out for, such as “Top 10 Best Video Games With Romance Options”.
Published: Dec 24, 2022 10:58 pm